Care guide

How to Clean Wallpaper Without Damaging It (By Type)

Clean wallpaper according to its care rating: spongeable papers get only a lightly damp sponge, washable papers a damp sponge, extra washable papers a cloth with mild soapy water, and scrubbable papers a soft brush with mild detergent. Grasscloth and other natural fibers should only be dusted.

In short

  • Find the care rating on the roll label or product page before cleaning.
  • Always test in a hidden spot first.
  • Wipe from the bottom up to avoid streaks, and never soak the seams.
  • Grasscloth, silk and cork: dry brush or vacuum brush attachment only.

Cleaning by care rating

Care ratingUseAvoid
SpongeableLightly damp sponge, no productsSoap, rubbing
WashableDamp spongeScrubbing, excess water
Extra washableCloth with mild soapy waterAbrasive cleaners
ScrubbableSoft brush, mild detergent, moderate pressureSolvents, scouring pads
Natural fibers (grasscloth, silk, cork)Dry brush or vacuum brush attachmentAny water

Step by step for washable vinyl

  1. Dust the wall first.
  2. Mix a little mild dish soap in warm water.
  3. Test in a hidden spot.
  4. Wipe gently with a soft cloth, working from the bottom up.
  5. Rinse with a clean damp cloth and pat dry, especially along seams.

Common stains

  • Fingerprints and scuffs on vinyl: damp cloth, then a little soapy water.
  • Grease in kitchens: mild soapy water on extra-washable or scrubbable paper only.
  • Crayon: try a dry soft cloth first; on scrubbable vinyl, gentle detergent.

If a stain does not come off, keep a spare roll: a single strip can often be replaced by a professional.

Next step: see our wallpaper installation service or request a free estimate.

Where we work: neighborhoods and ZIP codes

If a wallcovering needs repair or replacement rather than cleaning, we cover Gwinnett County, Roswell, East Cobb, Woodstock and Canton.

Gwinnett County

  • 30017 Grayson
  • 30096 Duluth
  • 30092 Peachtree Corners
  • 30071 Norcross
  • 30093 Norcross
  • 30043 Lawrenceville
  • 30045 Lawrenceville
  • 30046 Lawrenceville
  • 30019 Dacula
  • 30052 Loganville
  • 30078 Snellville
  • 30039 Snellville
  • 30518 Buford / Sugar Hill
  • 30519 Buford

Roswell and East Cobb

  • 30075 Roswell
  • 30076 Roswell
  • 30077 Roswell
  • 30062 Marietta / East Cobb
  • 30066 Marietta / East Cobb
  • 30068 Marietta / East Cobb

Woodstock, Canton and Hall County

  • 30188 Woodstock
  • 30189 Woodstock
  • 30115 Canton
  • 30114 Canton
  • 30107 Ball Ground
  • 30542 Flowery Branch
  • 30506 Gainesville

Also serving: Buckhead and North Atlanta; Alpharetta, Milton and Johns Creek; Cumming. Not sure we cover your street? Send your ZIP code with a quote request.

About WallPros. WallPros LLC is a wallpaper installation company based in Grayson, Georgia, serving Gwinnett County, North Atlanta, Alpharetta, Roswell, East Cobb, Cumming and the rest of Metro Atlanta for 10 years. We install, remove and prepare walls for homeowners, interior designers and builders.

Sources

  1. Wallcover.com — Wallpaper symbols and care ratings explained

FAQ

Common questions

Can I use a magic eraser on wallpaper?

Only on scrubbable vinyl and only after testing; it is abrasive and can dull or remove the print.

How do I clean grasscloth?

Dust it with a dry brush or vacuum brush attachment. Water and cleaners stain natural fibers.

What if a seam starts to lift while cleaning?

Stop, let it dry and have it re-glued with seam adhesive. Water in an open seam can spread under the paper.

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