We've all been there — a splash from cooking or a mystery mark that just seems to appear out of nowhere on your wallpaper or freshly painted walls. It’s frustrating, especially when you’ve spent time making your space look perfect.
Want to know the best way to clean wallpaper or wipe down painted walls without risking damage? You’re in the right place.
We’ve put together this simple, step-by-step guide with help from Caroline Woolmer, Head of Product Design at I Love Wallpaper. From quick spot cleans to tackling tougher stains, Caroline shares her expert advice on how to clean walls gently, keeping every room looking its best.
Contents
- How often should you clean your walls?
- How to clean wallpaper
- How to clean painted walls
- Does the type of wall paint affect how you should clean it?
- How to clean painted walls: Step-by-step instructions
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Frequently asked questions
How often should you clean your walls?
Caroline suggests: "There’s no set rule, but giving your walls and wallpaper a light dusting every couple of months helps keep them clean.”
“When it comes to using water, less is definitely more — it’s best to only spot clean when you notice marks, as too much moisture can cause paint to peel or wallpaper to sag over time.”
“However, if the walls haven’t been wiped in a while and are looking a little bit grubby, then it’s worth giving the whole surface a gentle clean.”
How to clean wallpaper
Exactly how you clean your wallpaper will depend on whether it’s washable or not. Here's what to keep in mind:
How to clean washable wallpaper
Washable wallpaper, sometimes called wipeable wallpaper, has a specially treated surface that makes it easier to clean without damage.
What you’ll need
- Feather duster or vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
- Sponge or cloth
- Bucket
- Mild washing-up liquid
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Dry, clean cloths
Method
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Dust
Start by giving your walls a good dusting to remove any loose dirt or cobwebs. Use a soft cloth, feather duster or a vacuum with a brush attachment to work from top to bottom. This helps to avoid spreading dust around once you start cleaning.
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Prepare a mild cleaning solution
Fill a bucket with warm water and add a tiny amount — around a teaspoon — of mild washing-up liquid. Avoid anything too harsh, as it may damage your wallpaper.
Caroline says: "If you have tougher stains, you can use a little distilled white vinegar instead. Mix three parts water to one part white distilled vinegar in a spray bottle. Give the stain a spray and leave it to sit for a couple of minutes. Then, wipe it away with a clean cloth dipped in warm water."
"While some people might recommend combining baking soda and white vinegar for cleaning wallpaper, I’d steer clear of this. When combined, the abrasive nature of baking soda and vinegar can break down the wallpaper’s protective coating, potentially causing damage or fading over time."
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Wipe away surface dirt
Use a soft, slightly damp cloth or sponge, dip it into the water, and wring it out. Before you start, test your solution on a hidden patch of wall to make sure it doesn’t affect the finish. Then, gently wipe the wallpaper in a light, circular motion.
It’s best to work from top to bottom to prevent dirty water drips from running over areas you’ve already cleaned.
If you need to reach higher spots, use a sturdy step ladder and take your time.
Caroline recommends: “If you notice any marks or stains, it’s a good idea to spot clean rather than tackling the entire wall. This helps keep moisture to a minimum and reduces the risk of damaging the wallpaper. If the rest of the wallpaper isn’t dirty, there’s no need to clean for the sake of it.”
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Avoid harsh scrubbing
Even though washable wallpaper is more durable, it’s still important to avoid abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals that could damage the design. And when wiping near joins or edges, work carefully to avoid lifting or peeling the wallpaper.
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Rinse with clean water
After wiping down the wallpaper with the cleaning solution, empty and fill your bucket with clean water. Dip in a clean cloth or sponge, wring it out and wipe your wallpaper to rinse off any soap residue. This will prevent any marks once the wallpaper is dry.
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Dry the surface after cleaning
Once you've cleaned the area, use a dry cloth to gently pat the wallpaper dry and stop any moisture from soaking in.
How to clean non-washable wallpaper
What you’ll need
- Feather duster or vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
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Dry sponge or cloth
Method
Traditional, non-washable wallpapers are more delicate and require a very light touch. They’re best suited to lower-traffic areas, and we don’t recommend using them in kitchens or bathrooms where splashes and humidity are common.
When it comes to cleaning, water should be avoided completely — even a small amount can cause the paper to tear, stain or ripple. Stick to dry cleaning methods only to keep your wallpaper looking its best.
To remove everyday dust and dirt, use a dry sponge and gently lift away debris with light, sweeping motions. Avoid scrubbing, as this can damage the surface.
Alternatively, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a clean brush attachment to carefully suction away dust. Always move slowly and gently across the wallpaper to avoid snagging or pulling at the paper.
If you’re dealing with a stubborn stain or damage you're unsure about, it’s worth calling in a professional wallpaper cleaner. They’ll have the right tools and expertise to treat the area without risking further damage.
How to clean painted walls
Does the type of wall paint affect how you should clean it?
Before you start cleaning, it’s essential to understand what kind of paint you’re working with. Different paints and finishes react differently to moisture and cleaning products, and knowing what you have will help you protect your walls.
Type of paint
- Oil-based paint — Typically found in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms, oil-based paints are tough and can cope well with regular cleaning. They're less likely to chip or crack and can handle a mild soap and water solution without any trouble.
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Water-based or latex paint — The most popular choice for interior walls today, water-based or latex paints are known for their flexibility and resistance to cracking. However, they’re a little less forgiving when it comes to moisture, so you’ll want to use a very gentle touch and avoid soaking the wall completely when cleaning.
Paint finish
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Matte and flat — These tend to mark easily and aren’t as washable. Always use the gentlest cleaning methods, and avoid rubbing too hard.
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Eggshell and satin — Slightly more durable than matte, but still benefit from light, careful cleaning.
- Semi-gloss — These are durable and easy to wipe clean. You can be a little firmer with your cleaning (but still avoid anything too abrasive).
- High gloss — The hardest-wearing of them all, high gloss paints have a shiny surface that’s easy to clean. They cope well with gentle detergents and can even handle a mild degreaser if needed.
Caroline says: "If you’ve just moved in — or it’s been a while since you decorated — you might not know what type of paint is on your walls. A quick clue is the room: kitchens and bathrooms often use oil-based paint for durability, while living rooms and bedrooms will probably be water-based paint. You can usually tell the finish by looking. Matte paints have little to no shine, while satin, semi-gloss and gloss finishes reflect more light."
How to clean painted walls: Step-by-step instructions
What you’ll need
- Soft cloths or non-abrasive sponges
- Dry, clean cloths
- Feather duster or microfibre duster
- Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment (optional)
- Bucket
- Mild washing-up liquid
- Distilled white vinegar (optional)
- Baking soda (optional)
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Sturdy step ladder (optional)
Method
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Dust the walls
Before using any moisture, gently dust the wallpaper with a feather duster, dry cloth, or the brush attachment on your vacuum. This removes loose dirt and prevents smearing when you start wiping.
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Prepare your cleaning solution
Next, fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of your mildest dish soap or cleaning detergent — around a teaspoon will do! Stay away from anything too harsh — gentle is key when it comes to protecting your paintwork.
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Clean from top to bottom
Dip a soft sponge or cloth into your bucket and wring it out so it’s damp, not soaking wet.
Then, working in circular motions, gently clean your walls from the top downwards.
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Spot clean marks or stains
If you spot any stubborn marks, focus on cleaning those areas separately rather than scrubbing the whole wall. Dab gently with your soapy solution and a soft cloth — and avoid heavy scrubbing, which could lift or damage the paint.
“If a stain still won’t budge, try mixing a gentle solution of one part baking soda to two parts warm water,” recommends Caroline. “Lightly apply the paste to the mark and leave it on for around a minute.”
“Baking soda is a natural, mild abrasive, meaning it can help lift stains without being harsh on your paintwork. After a minute, gently wipe the area clean with a damp cloth and then dry with a clean towel.”
“It’s always a good idea to test any cleaning solution, including baking soda, on a small hidden patch of wall first. This way, you can make sure it’s safe for your paint finish before using it on a more visible area.”
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Take extra care around light switches and sockets
When cleaning around light switches, sockets or other electrical fixtures, make sure your cloth is barely damp — not wet. Gently wipe the area, then immediately dry it with a clean cloth to avoid any moisture getting into fittings.
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Rinse off any soap residue
Once you've finished cleaning, it's time to get rid of any leftover soap. Empty your bucket, refill it with fresh, warm water (without any soap), and grab a clean cloth. Wipe down the walls again with this water to rinse away any remaining detergent — this step helps avoid streaks and a sticky feel once the walls dry.
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Dry with a clean cloth
Finally, go over the walls with a dry, clean cloth to soak up any moisture.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best way to clean textured wallpaper?
"Textured wallpaper needs a gentler approach," explains Caroline. "Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to lift off dust. If it’s washable wallpaper, you can wipe very lightly with a just-damp cloth and detergent.”
What should I do if my wallpaper starts peeling while I'm cleaning?
"If you spot any peeling, stop cleaning straight away and gently dry the area with a clean cloth,” says Caroline. “Once it’s fully dry, you can re-stick the loose edge with a little wallpaper adhesive, smoothing it carefully back into place."
"If the peeling’s quite bad, or if you’re worried about making it worse, it’s always worth getting a professional in. They’ll know the best way to repair it without damaging the rest of your wallpaper."
How can I get grease off my walls?
"Grease can be a bit stubborn to remove from walls, but don't panic,” explains Caroline. “Mix warm water with a drop of washing-up liquid and a tiny splash of white vinegar. Vinegar’s brilliant because it cuts through grease without needing very harsh chemicals.”
“Gently wipe the greasy area with a soft cloth, then rinse with clean water and dry straight away. Just remember — no heavy scrubbing, or you might damage the wallpaper or paint."
"And remember, this method should only be used on washable wallpaper. If your wallpaper isn’t washable, it’s best to get a professional in to avoid causing any more damage."
How can I remove mould from painted walls?
Caroline says: "While it’s tempting to reach straight for the bleach to remove mould, it’s best to avoid it on painted walls. Bleach can actually strip the colour and leave a patchy finish you’ll struggle to fix. Instead, start gently: mix warm water with a little mild detergent and use a soft sponge to lightly rub the mouldy area. This should lift surface mould without damaging the paint."
"If the mould’s a bit more stubborn, you can step things up with a vinegar solution — it’s less harsh than bleach but still effective. Mix three parts water to one part white distilled vinegar, pop it into a spray bottle, and lightly mist the area. Leave it to sit for a couple of minutes, then wipe it away with a clean cloth dipped in warm water."
"The key thing is not to scrub too hard — any heavy scrubbing will probably take the paint off along with the mould. If the wall’s badly stained once it’s dry, you might need to touch up the area with a bit of fresh paint to get it looking good as new."
“And remember: always tackle mould early — the longer you leave it, the trickier it is to remove without damaging your walls!"
How can I remove mould from wallpaper?
Caroline says: "When dealing with mould on wallpaper, it’s important to use the right approach. If you have washable wallpaper, you can gently clean the area with a soft cloth or sponge dipped in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent."
"For tougher mould, a vinegar solution can work well. Mix three parts water with one part white distilled vinegar in a spray bottle, lightly mist the affected area, and leave it for a few minutes before wiping it off with a clean, damp cloth."
Remember, this method should only be used on washable wallpaper. Never use moisture on non-washable wallpaper, as it can damage the surface. If you're dealing with non-washable wallpaper or the mould persists, it's time to call in a professional.
Can I remove wall stains without removing paint?
Caroline says: "Yes, you can! The trick is to work with a really mild solution — warm water with just a little washing-up liquid added. Dab, don’t scrub, using a soft cloth.”
“For tougher stains on painted walls, a bit of baking soda mixed with water can do the job too — just test it on a hidden spot first to be safe."
How can I remove water stains from my walls?
Caroline says: “Water stains on your walls tend to happen when steam from showers or baths sticks around too long — especially if your bathroom isn’t well ventilated. The steam clings to cool surfaces like walls and ceilings, turns into condensation, and when it drips down, it can leave streaky stains that make your walls look patchy or even a bit mouldy."
"If the stains aren’t too bad, you can often lift them with a mix of warm water and a little mild detergent. For tougher marks on painted walls, try filling a spray bottle with three parts water to one part white vinegar, mist the area lightly, leave it for a couple of minutes, then gently wipe clean with a soft cloth. Always wring your cloth out well so you’re not soaking the wall."
"You should check for leaks or damp patches first — if you don’t fix the source of the moisture, those stains will just keep coming back no matter how often you clean.”
How can I remove writing from painted walls?
Caroline says: “Coming into a room and finding your little one’s masterpiece on the wall is everyone’s worst nightmare — especially if you’ve just decorated! But don’t worry, most marks can be cleaned off without too much hassle."
- Pencil — Gently rub the pencil marks with a soft, clean eraser. Be sure to keep it light to avoid damaging the paint.
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Crayons — A little scrubbing with a cloth and warm, soapy water should do the trick. For stubborn marks, mix three parts water with one part vinegar in a spray bottle. Lightly spray it on the stain, leave it for a few minutes, and gently wipe it to hopefully lift the stain. Always test it on a hidden area first to make sure it doesn’t affect the paint.
- Ballpoint pens — Start with warm, soapy water and blot the area gently with a soft cloth. If that doesn’t work, try a vinegar solution (again, test first!).
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Permanent marker — Don’t panic — even permanent marker can be removed! Dab the stain with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to apply light pressure so you don’t damage the paint. Once the stain is gone, rinse the area with a clean cloth dipped in warm water and dry immediately to remove any leftover alcohol.
Caroline adds: "If all else fails, remember that a fresh coat of paint might be just what’s needed — but let's hope it doesn’t come to that!"
Shop wallpaper and paint at I Love Wallpaper today
If your wallpaper or paint is looking a little worse for wear and cleaning just isn’t cutting it, it might be time for a fresh new look. At I Love Wallpaper, we’ve got a stunning range of options, from bold floral and marble-effect wallpaper to timeless neutrals in our paint collection. Plus, we have a range of decorating tools if you want to have a go yourself.
Need a bit of inspiration or expert advice? Check out our blog. We’ve got tips on everything from how to hang wallpaper to maximising space in small bedrooms when decorating.
If you have any questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We’re here to help you create a space you’ll love!
