5 ways to clean wallpaper to make it look brand new again.

With these simple and convenient methods for cleaning wallpaper, homeowners can restore the brightness of their home without spending time or money on replacement.

Wallpaper is increasingly popular due to its high aesthetic appeal, diverse designs, and ability to quickly refresh living spaces. However, this material requires more meticulous care to prevent fading or peeling of the adhesive.

Over time, dirt, fingerprints, grease stains, and mold will cause the wall surface to lose its original shine. Keeping wallpapered walls clean and shiny not only extends the lifespan of the material but also protects the health of the whole family.

Many types of wallpaper are beautiful but easily attract dust and dirt. (Photo: HomeClean)

Regularly remove dry dust from wallpaper.

Before starting any cleaning process with water or chemicals, the first and most important step is to remove the dry dust adhering to the surface. Many people often make the mistake of immediately using a wet cloth to wipe dusty walls, causing the dirt to mix with the water, creating unsightly black streaks that penetrate deeper into the wallpaper's texture.

You should use a soft-bristled dustpan or a vacuum cleaner with a soft-bristled brush attachment to gently sweep from the ceiling down to the floor. Additionally, understanding the characteristics of the wallpaper you are using will determine its durability after cleaning.

Modern wallpapers are often coated with a protective vinyl layer, making them moisture-resistant and easy to clean with a damp cloth. In contrast, traditional wallpapers made from virgin pulp or high-quality textiles must absolutely not be allowed to absorb water, as this will cause them to disintegrate and tear.

For this type of non-water-resistant paper, a specialized dry sponge designed for absorbing dirt and dust will be the safest cleaning solution.

Depending on the material, different processing methods are required. (Photo: Dreamstime)

How to clean wallpaper

To effectively clean wallpaper without damaging its structure, you need to clearly identify the type of material you are using and apply the correct method. Below are 5 ways to clean wallpaper, from basic to advanced, helping to keep your living space looking clean and new.

Diluted dishwashing liquid

In high-traffic areas like living rooms or hallways, wallpaper easily gets stained with common dirt such as sweat marks, fingerprints, or accumulated dust. To solve this problem gently, a diluted dish soap solution with warm water is the optimal choice.

The mild cleaning properties of dish soap are enough to break down dirt without wearing down or erasing the patterns on the paper. Simply mix a few drops of dish soap into a small basin of warm water until it lightly foams.

Using a very soft microfiber cloth, dip it into the solution and wring it out thoroughly, ensuring the cloth is only slightly damp. Gently wipe the stained area in a circular motion or from top to bottom.

After wiping with soapy water, use another clean cloth dipped in cold water and wrung out to wipe away any excess foam. Finally, use a dry cloth or turn on a fan to dry the wall immediately, preventing water from seeping into the edges of the wallpaper.

Cornstarch or talcum powder

Kitchen areas or walls near the dining table are very susceptible to grease splatters during cooking and daily activities. If left untreated, grease stains can seep into the paper fibers, creating unsightly yellow patches that attract insects.

Since grease and oil are not water-soluble, using a regular wet cloth to wipe them can sometimes spread the stain further. A smart solution in this case is to use powders with high moisture and oil absorption properties, such as cornstarch or baby powder.

Many sections of wallpaper are stained with grease. (Photo: Dreamstine)

Mix some cornstarch with water to form a paste, then apply it evenly to the greasy area of ​​the wallpaper and leave it until it dries completely. Once dry, the cornstarch will automatically absorb the grease from the surface of the paper.

At this point, simply use a soft-bristle brush to sweep away the dried powder, and the wall will be clean again. If the grease stain is fresh, you can also sprinkle talcum powder directly on it, leave it for about 10 minutes, and then wipe it clean with a dry cloth.

Hair dryer

If there are young children in the family, it's almost inevitable that the wallpaper will turn into a canvas covered with pencil marks, crayons, or even chewing gum. Crayons are oil-based and therefore very sticky, and chewing gum, when dried, will cling tightly to the wallpaper surface. Rough scraping will certainly tear the surface layer of the wallpaper.

For crayon marks, you can utilize the heat from your familiar hairdryer. Turn the hairdryer on to a medium heat setting and blow directly onto the area with the crayon mark to soften the wax stuck to the wall.

As soon as the wax starts to melt, quickly wipe away the stain with a paper towel or soft cloth. For chewing gum stains, place an ice cube on the gum for a few minutes to allow it to harden.

Once the candy has become brittle from the cold, use your fingernail or a plastic spoon to gently peel the piece off the wall without leaving a mark.

Regular cleaning helps extend the lifespan of wallpaper. (Photo: Stewart)

White vinegar

In hot and humid climates, especially during the rainy season, wallpaper is easily attacked by mold, forming black or green spots that are unsightly and seriously affect the respiratory system of family members.

When you discover mold, you need to treat it immediately to prevent mold spores from spreading across the entire wall surface. Instead of using harsh chlorine-based cleaners that can easily fade the wallpaper, white vinegar is a great natural "weapon."

The mild acetic acid in white vinegar can safely and effectively kill mold spores. Mix white vinegar with clean water in equal proportions, pour into a spray bottle, and lightly mist the affected area. Let the solution soak in and work for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, use a sponge or soft cloth to wipe away the mold.

Once the walls are clean, the most important thing is to thoroughly dry the area by wiping it with a dry cloth, opening windows for ventilation, or using a hairdryer on a cool setting to prevent mold from returning.

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