Removing Marks and Stains Safely
Keeping wallpaper clean is important for maintaining its look and making it last longer. Over time, walls can collect marks, fingerprints, dust, and stains, especially in busy areas. If they're not cleaned properly, these marks can make the wallpaper look worn or damaged. Learning how to remove stains safely helps homeowners keep their wallpaper looking fresh and tidy.
Vinyl and other washable wallpapers are more durable and can usually be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. However, paper-based, fabric or textured wallpapers are much more delicate and should be cleaned with dry methods, such as using a dry sponge or soft brush, to avoid tearing or staining the surface. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions first; if you're unsure, test a small hidden area to make sure the wallpaper won’t fade, peel, or get damaged during cleaning.
For light marks, a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild soap is often enough to clean marks and stains. However, you should avoid using too much water, as soaking the wallpaper can lead to peeling or staining. For more delicate wallpaper, a dry sponge or a clean white eraser can help lift marks without moisture. It's crucial not to scrub hard, as this can rub away the design or leave shiny patches.
Avoiding Moisture and Damp Areas
When wallpaper is exposed to damp conditions, it can start to peel, bubble, or grow mould. To keep your wallpaper looking fresh and in good condition, it’s important for homeowners to avoid placing it in areas that are prone to moisture or damp. In rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens, wallpaper can begin to peel away from the wall. The adhesive that's used to attach the wallpaper doesn't hold well when it becomes wet, and over time, even small amounts of moisture can weaken the glue, causing the wallpaper to peel at the edges or bubble in the middle.
If homeowners want to use wallpaper in rooms with a risk of damp, it’s best to use moisture-resistant wallpaper. Vinyl or wipeable wallpaper can cope better with splashes and steam. However, even with these types of wallpaper, it’s crucial to make sure the room is well-ventilated.
To keep the wallpaper in good condition in any room, it's important to keep the area dry and free from condensation. You should use extractor fans, open windows, and avoid placing wallpaper directly on walls that have a history of damp. By managing moisture and choosing the right type of wallpaper, homeowners can keep their walls looking clean and long-lasting.
Repairing Small Tears or Peeling Edges
Over time, wallpaper can begin to show signs of wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas of the home. Common issues include small tears, peeling edges, or lifted corners, all of which can spoil the appearance of a room. Although these problems may seem minor at first, repairing them quickly is important to keep the wallpaper in good condition and prevent further damage.
When wallpaper begins to peel or tear, air and dust can seep behind it and worsen the damage over time. A small tear can turn into a larger rip, and a loose corner can continue to lift, especially in humid or high-traffic areas. Repairing these small issues early on prevents them from spreading and helps keep the wallpaper neat and secure.
Most wallpaper repairs can be done at home with simple tools - and for lifted corners or edges, applying a small amount of wallpaper adhesive with a brush and pressing the wallpaper back into place can work well. Using a seam roller can also help smooth out the edges and make the joints less visible. Repairing wallpaper as soon as damage appears is a great way to help extend its lifespan and avoid the cost of full redecoration. It helps keep your walls looking their best and shows that the home is well cared for.
Protecting Wallpaper from Sunlight
Sunlight is one of the main causes of wallpaper fading over time. While natural light brightens a room and creates a welcoming space, too much direct sunlight can cause the colours and patterns on wallpaper to fade. To keep your wallpaper looking fresh and vibrant, homeowners need to protect it from long-term sun exposure.
When wallpaper is exposed to strong sunlight every day, the colours can start to fade; this is especially noticeable in darker or brightly coloured designs. Over time, parts of the wallpaper can begin to look dull or patchy, which can spoil the overall appearance of the wall. In some cases, the pattern may become hard to see or appear uneven across the surface.
Rooms with large windows or that face the sun for most of the day are more at risk of this type of damage. Living rooms, conservatories, and bedrooms with strong light should be given extra care. Homeowners can reduce direct sunlight by using blinds, curtains, or UV window films to help block or filter the sunlight in the room.
When decorating sun-filled rooms, it’s a good idea to choose wallpaper that's labelled as 'fade-resistant' or 'lightfast'. These types of wallpaper are made with special materials that help them keep their colour for longer, even in bright conditions.
By protecting your wallpaper from strong sunlight, homeowners can keep their walls looking clean, colourful, and well cared for. Taking small steps like closing the blinds during the brightest part of the day can make a big difference over time. With the right care, your wallpaper will stay vibrant and stylish, helping the room look its best for years to come.
wallpaper hanging Northampton
We provide expert wallpaper hanging services and achieve smooth, high-quality finishes every time. From feature walls to full-room designs, we handle all types of wallpaper designs with care and precision. Trust us to bring your room to life with our expertise!