Wallpaper care guide

Here’s how you can love your walls back

There’s a moment, usually a few months in, when you stop calling your new wallpaper a “new wallpaper” because it’s simply become part of your home. That’s exactly when it deserves a little attention back. The good news is, caring for it really doesn’t ask for much, just a few simple habits, done consistently, and your walls stay as vibrant as the day they went up. This wallpaper care guide walks you through exactly what that looks like, so your space keeps feeling as good as it did on day one, for years to come.

A little care goes a long way.
Preserve your walls.

Knowing how to clean wallpaper correctly makes all the difference between a finish
that lasts and one that fades or peels ahead of its time. Here's what to do, and what to avoid:

For routine cleaning:

Wipe the surface gently with a clean, dry cloth to remove dust and light particles. Do this every 2 to 3 weeks to prevent buildup.
Always wipe from the bottom upwards, following the direction of the vertical seams. This keeps the edges intact and prevents moisture from seeping in at the joints.

For marks or smudges:

Dampen a clean, soft cloth or sponge with plain water and wipe the affected area gently.
Use light, even strokes; do not scrub or press hard, even on tougher marks.
Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads, as these can graze the surface finish even on durable materials.

What to avoid entirely:

Chemical-based detergents or solvent cleaners: These can strip the surface coating and dull the print over time.
Coloured cleaning solutions: These risk leaving stains on the wallpaper surface.
Excessive moisture: Dampen your cloth; don’t soak it. Too much water near the seams can cause lifting.

Some extra tips for a forever fresh wallpaper

Cleaning is only part of the picture. A few additional habits go a long
way in extending the life of your wallpaper:

Mind the
sunlight:

Prolonged, direct sunlight can gradually fade colours over time, particularly on walls that receive strong afternoon light. Use curtains, blinds, or UV-filtering window films where possible.

Watch the
humidity:

In high-moisture areas like kitchens or bathrooms, ensure the space is well-ventilated. Excess humidity can affect wallpaper adhesion and finish.

Be careful with
furniture:

Avoid placing sharp-edged furniture directly against wallpapered walls. Repeated contact can scuff or crease the surface.

Address
damage early:

If a corner begins to lift or a small section gets damaged, attend to it promptly. Small issues are far easier to fix than larger ones left to develop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I clean custom wallpaper?

Start with a dry, clean cloth for routine dust removal; once every 2 to 3 weeks is a good frequency. For smudges or marks, use a lightly dampened cloth and wipe gently from the bottom upwards. Avoid chemical cleaners, abrasive pads, and excessive moisture near the seams. Our wallpapers are printed on durable, scratch-resistant materials, but gentle cleaning always gives you the best long-term results.

Q: Can peel-and-stick wallpaper be washed?

Our wallpapers can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, but we'd recommend avoiding heavy washing or soaking. Treat marks gently as soon as they appear; the quicker you address them, the easier they are to remove without affecting the finish.

Q: How long does wallpaper last with proper care?

With regular, gentle maintenance, a well-installed wallpaper from Print A Wallpaper can last many years without losing its colour or finish. Our materials are built for durability; they're scratch-resistant, fade-resistant, and designed for real interior environments. Following the cleaning routine in this guide is the simplest thing you can do to protect that lifespan.

Q: Does sunlight damage wallpaper over time?

It can. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly harsh afternoon sun, can cause gradual fading on any printed surface. But don’t worry: if your wallpapered wall receives a lot of direct light, consider using curtains, blinds, or UV-protective window films, and you’ll be covered. This is especially worth keeping in mind for walls with rich or dark colour palettes.

Q: How do I maintain wallpaper to keep it looking new?

Stick to a simple routine: dry wipe every 2 to 3 weeks, address any marks promptly with a damp cloth, keep the space ventilated, and protect the wall from direct sunlight where you can. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning tools, and be mindful of furniture placement near the edges. That's genuinely all it takes; wallpaper care is far simpler than most people expect.