No one wants stains to spoil their smart and attractive wallpaper. But removing them is not always easy. Much will depend on the type of wallpaper adorning your walls and the source of the stain. You might be lucky and have a scar that’s easy to remove, but you might not.
Matching the right stain removal solution with the type of wallpaper is the key to success. Method of application is important. Get overzealous with your cleaning tools, and your wallpaper will suffer. Here you get expert advice, tips and techniques to preserve your wallpaper. Or you have to learn How to do wallpaper very quickly.
How is wallpaper stained?
Wallpaper can see a lot of action in certain parts of the home, but not so much in others. This means that there can be a wide range of stains to deal with.
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Heather Nixon, sustainability, NPD and regulatory manager at an eco-friendly cleaning product manufacturer Bio-DHere are some scenarios that can lead to unwanted stains: “Itching from moving furniture and large objects around the house, along with tip pen stains, is common.” And let’s not forget, “Pets can also create a general buildup on wallpaper from regularly brushing against walls.”
However, there are many other possibilities, says James Melan-Matulewicz, CEO and creative director. Bobby Beck: “Common wallpaper stains include condensation water marks, coffee spills, hand prints or grease marks, mold or mildew, and installation wallpaper paste stains.”
Heather champions all things cleaning and sustainability at Bio-D, innovating to create products that are both environmentally friendly and effective. From useful tips and tricks to the science behind creating cleaning products – it’s a fountain of knowledge when it comes to all things cleaning.
James is the creative director and interior designer of the design brand Bobby Beck. He has over a decade of experience as a multidisciplinary designer, working in interiors, styling and art direction.
Shop these products to help remove wallpaper stains
Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda
A versatile and all-natural product commonly used for cleaning and baking. A must have staple in any home. This 907g box provides enough baking soda for hundreds of jobs.
Bartolin Sugar Soap Concentrate
This triple pack of Bartholin Concentrated Sugar Soap allows you to dilute for use. I am effective at cleaning grease, grime, and stains, from walls and wallpaper.
An all-in-one cleaner is ideal for removing stains on this wallpaper. This 5 liter container will last for years. Remember to dilute accordingly to get the right cleaning solution.
Alternatives to wallpaper stains
With such a wide variety of wallpaper stains, it makes sense that you’ll need a variety of solutions to deal with them. Here, cleaning experts reveal a range of options for cleaning wallpaper.
1. Dry wipe cleaning
It’s a good idea to clean the surrounding area before you start it so you don’t make matters worse. “Before trying any wet sponges or cleaning solutions, try using a vacuum with a brush attachment or feather duster to remove any light debris,” says James Mellon-Matulewicz.
2. Hot water and soap
A combination of warm water and mild soap is a good option, shares cleaning expert Georgina Shepherd. housekeeping“It’s ideal for everyday cleaning and general marks like fingerprints and light dirt.”
She adds, “Mix a few squirts of washing-up liquid into a bowl of warm water. Lightly dampen your micro-fiber cloth with the soapy solution and gently scrub the area until the stain is gone.”
Georgina Housekeeping is a house cleaning specialist. She has interviewed thousands of the UK’s best cleaners and tradespeople, learning top tricks of the trade along the way.
3. Talcum powder
It’s a good choice when moisture can ruin wallpaper, shares Shepherd, “Talcum powder is a great way to get rid of grease marks on delicate wallpaper that can’t handle moisture.” She adds, “Spray a small amount on greasy marks and leave them to absorb the oil. Once dry, brush them gently with a soft cloth or brush.”
4. Baking soda paste
Natural and safe baking soda is a great all-purpose cleaner James Mellon-Matulewicz shares, “Baking soda mixed with a small amount of water can make a mild cleaning paste. This works well for slightly tougher stains such as grease stains, food stains, or light scratches, acting as a mild abrasive.”
He continues, “Apply the paste gently with a soft cloth, rub the affected area gently, then wipe with a damp cloth. This is not recommended on non-vinyl wallpaper.”
5. Sugar soap
“Sugar soap is a strong cleaning solution commonly used to remove grease and heavy dirt from painted walls before decorating,” says Mellon-Matulewicz. However, use the concentrated option so you can dilute to suit your needs.
Mellon-Matulewicz continues, “It can sometimes be used on durable vinyl or washable wallpaper where there are stubborn grease stains. In these cases, it should be well diluted and applied gently.”
6. White vinegar
A popular and budget-friendly cleaning solution. Where it works best, Shepherd shares, “It’s effective on light stains, odors, mold and mildew.” “The natural acidity helps break down these types of stains,” adds Melan-Matulewicz.
To use, Shepherd says, “Mix equal parts water and white vinegar. Dip your microfiber cloth in the solution so it’s slightly damp and blot the area.”
“It should be applied sparingly with a soft cloth and tested on a small hidden area first, as it can affect traditional or non-washable wallpaper,” adds Mellon-Matulewicz.
7. Expert cleaning spray
“For tougher staining like crayon or ink, a specialist wall or upholstery cleaner may be more effective,” shares Shepherd.
But be warned, they can spoil the wallpaper. “Be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle and test a small area first to make sure it doesn’t strip any color,” says Shepherd.
Cleaning wallpaper stains
A handy tip before you start cleaning comes from Mellon-Matulewicz: “When removing wallpaper stains it’s important to test any cleaning product on a small, hidden area first and always start with the gentlest option.”
He continues, “To avoid damaging your wallpaper, always clean it carefully and make sure you’re using the right tools, starting with the least abrasive method. A soft sponge is one of the gentlest and safest tools to use on stained wallpaper. Make sure the sponge is slightly damp rather than overly saturated.”
Heather Nixon suggests a solid bar product like Bio-D Laundry and stain remover bar. “Just wet the bar and rub it gently over the affected area before wiping off with water and a clean cloth. The surfactants in the bar help lift dirt,” she says.
Shepherd offers some simple advice to follow, “Wash the affected areas gently. Do not scrub as this can remove the color, damage the pattern or even tear the wallpaper!”
Mellon-Matulewicz’s final piece of advice is, “Never use a wet microfiber cloth on wallpaper as it becomes incredibly abrasive.”
What not to do when cleaning wallpaper stains
There are a few things to avoid when cleaning wallpaper stains, as they can damage the wallpaper. Experts pretty much agree on what you should and shouldn’t use.
Avoid abrasive tools and harsh scrubbing
Shepherd of Housekeeping shares tools not to use: “Scoring pads, stiff brushes, or rough cloths can scratch and permanently damage wallpaper.” “Avoid scrubbing too vigorously as this can damage the wallpaper, making the damage worse,” adds Heather from Bio-D.
This can flatten the texture of the wallpaper, remove the printed layer and create shiny patches that will be clearly visible in certain lighting.
Be careful with chemicals
“Mold cleaners and bleach can strip the color and weaken the adhesive,” says Shepherd. Do not spray cleaning products directly onto the wallpaper. Spray onto a cloth or sponge. Fluid will run down the wall, leaving marks, and can seep into the seams and behind the paper.
Keep water to a minimum
“Too much water can cause blistering, peeling or staining. Always use a lightly damp cloth to avoid this,” says Shepherd. “Use a damp sponge and don’t over-wet it. If the wallpaper is soaked, the adhesive can start to soften, and the wallpaper will pull away from the wall and show water stains. This can be especially apparent on traditional non-vinyl, matte wallpaper,” adds Mellon-Matulewicz.
Say no to magical erasers
“I personally avoid magic erasers,” shares Heather Nixon, “These work like micro sandpaper and can remove the top layer of your wallpaper.” Try it on vinyl wallpaper only on stubborn stains, and use a light touch.
FAQ
Can I use a steamer to clean wallpaper?
On the face of it, a steam cleaner may seem like a viable option, but in reality, it’s rarely a good choice. Mellon-Matulewicz explains why, “Steam creates a large amount of heat and moisture and when exposed to wallpaper, it can easily damage it.”
“It can also soften the adhesive behind the paper, causing it to loosen and peel away from the wall,” he adds. Other problems can also occur, including water marks and discoloration, especially on PVC-free wallcoverings.
However, Mellon-Matulewicz points out that it can be used in certain situations: “Steam cleaning is not something we ever recommend; however, it may only be appropriate in very limited situations, such as durable vinyl or commercial-grade washable wallcoverings.”
“Even then, it should be done very carefully and from a distance so that the wall is not saturated with steam,” he adds.
Wallpaper stain removal is a cost-effective solution to restoring wallpaper. However, there may come a time when a new wallpaper is the only answer. Check out our Consider hallway wallpaper, Bedroom wallpaper ideas And Kitchen wallpaper ideas For inspiration for your next wallpaper project.
