How to properly wash wallpaper

Wallpaper - the most common material for wall decoration. Over time, like any other item or decoration material, they become covered with dust and other dirt. Whether the wallpaper can be washed or not depends on its type and the materials from which it is made. Of all types, only paper wallpaper cannot be washed. The rest allow one or another cleaning, depending on the marking.

Washable wallpaper marking looks like one or more waves. If there is only one wave, it means that the wallpaper is waterproof. Dirt from such wallpaper can be cleaned off with a damp sponge or cloth, without using detergents. Two waves mark washable wallpaper. After washing, blot them with a paper towel or napkin. Wallpaper marked with three waves is more resistant to wet cleaning. If the wallpaper is marked with a combination of a single wave, a straight strip and a comb, it resists friction, washing and cleaning well.

Proper washing of wallpaper takes place in several stages. The first, preliminary, stage is dry cleaning. The wallpaper is cleaned with a dry cloth or vacuum cleaner. This is to get rid of the top layer of dust and prevent streaks.

The second stage is preparation directly for washing in accordance with the labeling of the wallpaper. A detergent is diluted in a basin with warm water; a special one is suitable for washing wallpaper or for dishes. If the packaging with the markings has not been preserved, in order to avoid damage to the wallpaper in a conspicuous place, you can start cleaning in those places that are hidden behind the furniture.

The third stage is the washing process itself. The wallpaper is cleaned carefully and preferably quickly, with a damp, wrung out sponge. Regardless of the marking, the wallpaper must not be wetted too much - there is always a risk that it will get wet. Do not use force when rubbing, as this can damage the top layer of the wallpaper. After washing, it is recommended to wipe the wallpaper dry with paper towels or microfiber cloths.

At the fourth stage, the wallpaper should dry completely on its own. Depending on the type of room and type of wallpaper, this process, on average, can take up to five hours. At the same time, it is not recommended to accelerate the drying process with a hair dryer or airing, as this all increases the risk that the wallpaper will come off.