No one wants stains spoiling their smart and attractive wallpaper. But removing them isn’t 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 stain that's easy to remove, but you might not.
Matching the right stain removal solution to the wallpaper type is key to success. The method of application is important. Get overexcited with your cleaning tools, and your wallpaper will suffer. Here you find expert advice, tips and techniques to save your wallpaper. Or you’ll have to learn how to wallpaper pretty quickly.
How wallpaper gets stained
Wallpaper can see a lot of action in certain parts of the home, but not so much elsewhere. This means that there can be a wide range of stains to deal with.
Article continues belowHeather Nixon, sustainability, NPD and regulatory manager at eco-friendly cleaning product manufacturer Bio-D, points out a few scenarios that can lead to unwanted stains: “Scuffs from moving furniture and larger items around the home, alongside felt tip pen stains are common.” And let's not forget, “Pets regularly brushing against walls can also create general buildup on wallpaper.”
However, there are plenty of other possibilities, says James Mellan-Matulewicz, CEO & Creative Director at Bobbi Beck: “Common wallpaper stains include condensation water marks, coffee spills, hand prints or grease marks, mould or mildew and installation wallpaper paste stains.”
Heather champions all things cleaning and sustainability at Bio-D, innovating to create products that are both eco-friendly and effective. She is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to all things cleaning - from useful tips and tricks to the science behind making cleaning products.
James is the creative director and interior designer at design brand Bobbi Beck. He has over a decade of experience as a multidisciplinary designer, working across interiors, styling and art direction.
Shop these produce to help remove wallpaper stains
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This triple pack of Bartoline concentrated sugar soap allows you to dilute for use. I is effective at cleaning grease, grime, and stains, from walls and wallpaper.
An all-in-one cleaner this is ideal for perfect for removing a host of stains on wallpaper. This 5-litre container will last for years. Remember to dilute accordingly to get the right cleaning solution.
Options for wallpaper stains
With a wide variety of wallpaper stains to contend with, it makes sense that you will need different solutions to deal with them. Here, cleaning experts reveal a range of options for cleaning wallpaper.
1. Dry wipe cleaning
Before you start its a good idea to clean the surrounding areas so you're not making matters worse. James Mellan-Matulewicz says, “Before trying any damp sponges or cleaning solutions, try using a vacuum with a brush attachment or a feather duster to remove any light debris.”
2. Warm water and soap
A mixture of warm water and a mild soap is the go-to option, shares Georgina Shepherd, cleaning expert at Housekeep, “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 damp your micro-fibre cloth with the soapy solution and gently blot the area till the stain lifts.”
Georgina is a home cleaning expert at Housekeep. She's interviewed thousands of the UK’s best cleaners and tradespeople, learning the top tricks of the trade along the way.
3. Talcum powder
This is a good choice when moisture can ruin the 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, “Sprinkle a small amount onto greasy marks and leave it to absorb the oil. Once dry, gently brush it away with a soft cloth or brush.”
4. Baking soda paste
Natural and safe baking soda is a great multipurpose cleaner shares James Mellan-Matulewicz, “Baking soda mixed with a small amount of water can create a gentle cleaning paste. This works well for slightly tougher stains such as grease marks, food stains or light scuffs, acting as a mild abrasive."
He continues, “Apply the paste lightly with a soft cloth, gently rub the affected area, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. This is not recommended on non-vinyl wallpapers.”
5. Sugar soap
Mellan-Matulewicz says, “Sugar soap is a strong cleaning solution commonly used to remove grease and heavy dirt from painted walls before decorating.” However, use a concentrated option so you can dilute to suit your needs.
Mellan-Matulewicz continues, “It can occasionally be used on durable vinyl or washable wallpapers 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. Shepherd shares where it works best, “It is effective on light stains, odours, mould and mildew.” Mellan-Matulewicz adds, “The natural acidity helps break down these types of stains.”
To use, Shepherd says, “Mix equal parts water and white vinegar. Dip your microfibre cloth into the solution so it's lightly damp and blot the area.”
Mellan-Matulewicz adds, “It should be applied sparingly with a soft cloth and tested on a small hidden area first, as it may affect traditional or non-washable wallpapers.”
7. Specialist cleaning sprays
“For tougher staining like crayon or ink, a specialist wall or upholstery cleaner can be more effective,” shares Shepherd.
But be warned, they can ruin wallpaper. Shepherd says, “Make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle and test a small area first to ensure it doesn't strip any colour.”
Cleaning wallpaper stains
A simple suggestion before you start cleaning comes from Mellan-Matulewicz: “It’s important to test any cleaning product on a small, hidden area first when removing a wallpaper stain, and always start with the gentlest option.”
He continues, “To avoid any damage to your wallpaper, always clean it carefully and make sure you are using the right tools, starting with the least abrasive method first. A soft sponge is one of the softest and safest tools to use on stained wallpaper. Ensure the sponge is lightly damp rather than overly saturated.”
Heather Nixon suggests a solid bar product like Bio-D’s Laundry & Stain Remover Bar. She says, “Simply wet the bar and gently rub onto the affected area, before wiping with water and a clean cloth. This works as the surfactants in the bar help to lift dirt.”
Shepherd offers some simple advice to follow, “Lightly blot the affected areas. Don’t scrub as this can remove colour, damage the pattern or even tear the wallpaper!”
Mellan-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 will simply ruin the wallpaper. The experts are very much in agreement with what you shouldn’t use and do.
Avoid abrasive tools and harsh scrubbing
Shepherd from Housekeep shares the tools not to use: “Scouring pads, stiff brushes or rough cloths can scratch and permanently damage wallpaper.” Heather from Bio-D adds, “Avoid scrubbing too vigorously as this could damage the wallpaper, worsening the damage.”
This can flatten the wallpaper's texture, remove the printed layer, and create shiny patches that will be clearly visible in certain lighting.
Be careful with chemicals
Shepherd says, “Mould cleaners & bleach can strip colour and weaken the adhesive.” Do not spray cleaning products directly onto wallpaper. Spray onto a cloth or sponge. The liquid will run down the wall, leaving marks, and can get into seams and behind the paper.
Keep water to a minimum
Shepherd says, “Too much water can cause bubbling, peeling, or staining. Always use a lightly damp cloth to avoid this.” Mellan-Matulewicz adds, “Use a damp sponge and don’t overly wet it. If the wallpaper is soaked, the adhesive can begin to soften, and the wallpaper will peel away from the wall and can show a water stain. This can be particularly apparent on traditional non-vinyl, matte wallpapers.”
Say no to magic erasers
“I would personally avoid magic erasers,” shares Heather Nixon, “These work like micro sandpaper and can remove the top layer of your wallpaper." Only try on stubborn stains on vinyl wallpaper, and use a light touch.
FAQ
Can I use a steamer to clean wallpaper?
On the face of it, a steam cleaner might seem a viable option, but in reality, it's rarely a good choice. Mellan-Matulewicz explains why, “Steam creates a large amount of heat and moisture and when introduced to wallpaper, it can easily cause damage.”
He adds, “It can also soften the adhesive behind the paper, causing it to loosen and start to peel away from the wall.” Other issues, including water marks and discolouration, can also occur, particularly on PVC-free wallcoverings.
However, Mellan-Matulewicz points out that it could be used in specific situations: “Steam cleaning is not something we would ever recommend; however, it may only be suitable in very limited situations, such as durable vinyl or commercial-grade washable wallcoverings.”
He adds, “Even then, it should be done with extreme care and from a distance so the wall is not saturated with steam.”
Cleaning wallpaper stains is a cost-effective solution to restore the wallpaper. However, there may be a time when new wallpaper is the only answer. Check out our hallway wallpaper ideas, bedroom wallpaper ideas and kitchen wallpaper ideas for inspiration for your next wallpaper project.
