Maintenance & cleaning: how to keep wallpaper beautiful (even with kids/pets)

Wallpaper adds atmosphere and character, but in a home where people live, it also has to endure some wear and tear. Think of greasy fingerprints on the dining table, a wet dog's tail in the hallway, or small scratches from toys on the wall.

The good news: with proper maintenance, your wallpaper will stay looking sharp and fresh for years to come, without you having to worry about it daily. It's all about two things: knowing what type of wallpaper you have and cleaning it properly, before a stain sets in.

In this blog post, you'll learn how to safely clean wallpaper, which products to avoid, and how to make smart choices for areas where children and pets often rub. This way, your interior stays beautiful, even if things get chaotic at times.

First check: what type of wallpaper is on your wall?

Before you start cleaning, it's important to know exactly what you're cleaning. Not all wallpaper can handle the same amount of wear. Washable or scrub-resistant wallpaper (often vinyl or wallpaper with a protective coating) is best suited for busy families, as it can withstand moisture and light cleaning better.

Paper wallpaper and some matte, natural textures are more delicate and can discolor or damage more quickly if you work with it too wet. Therefore, always check the product specifications or cleanability symbols on your wallpaper.

The location in your home also plays a role: in a hallway or near a dining table, a wipe-clean finish is practical, while in a bedroom, a softer, less robust finish often works well. By first determining the material, you avoid "dissolving" a stain while simultaneously dulling the print or damaging the top layer.

Cleaning without damage: how to tackle stains safely

The golden rule is simple: Always start gently and work dry or almost dry. Dust and loose dirt are best removed with a soft feather duster, microfiber cloth, or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment on a low setting.

For stains, a slightly damp cloth usually works better than a wet one, as too much water can damage the adhesive or cause seams to rise. Blot rather than rub, especially with matte or textured prints: rubbing can create shiny spots or "polish" the pattern.

Use lukewarm water and, if necessary, a small amount of mild soap, but avoid degreasers and abrasives. Always test first in an inconspicuous area, such as behind a cabinet or in a corner.

Is the stain stubborn? It's better to repeat the process twice, gently, than once, vigorously. This will keep your wallpaper looking beautiful and prevent permanent stains.

Kids & Pets-Proof: Smart Prevention That Really Works

In families, damage usually doesn't occur from a single major disaster, but from everyday interactions. Think of walking routes along walls, areas where children play, or where pets like to rub against. Prevention is especially helpful in these situations.

In sensitive areas, choose wallpaper that is removable, and consider a print or textured pattern where small stains are less noticeable than on plain, light wallpaper. In the hallway, a clever layout—such as a bench, coat rack, or extra space for shoes—can prevent coats and bags from constantly rubbing against the wall.

At the dining table, it helps to protect the adjacent wall with a scrub-resistant finish. For pets, subtly directing their "route" through the house works surprisingly well: a rug, bed, or fixed leash can help keep them from going along the wall.

Small changes, big difference: from "always updating" to years of worry-free enjoyment of your wallpaper.

Quick fixes: loose edges and minor damage

Don't immediately treat minor damage as a disaster. Loose edges can often be neatly repaired with a little wallpaper paste and a soft roller or cloth—as long as you don't use too much paste and press the edge firmly.

Do you have a tiny tear? You can sometimes repair it almost invisibly by saving a scrap piece of wallpaper and cutting a mini-patch to the exact pattern.

The most important thing is to work carefully and avoid applying excessive moisture or pressure to sensitive areas. Therefore, always save a scrap piece after each wallpapering job and write down the name/collection so you can easily reorder later.

Want wallpaper that stays beautiful in a home where people truly live? Browse the Selected Wallpapers collection, choose a removable, easy-care favorite, and order a sample. This way, you can discover which quality and look best suits your space at home.