How to Clean Wallpapered Walls and Ceilings

Dusting

Washing

• Nonwashable: Fabric, hand-painted, and antique wallpapers fall into this category. Only professionals should attempt to clean nonwashable wallpaper, though you can remove spots by using an art gum eraser or commercial wallpaper-cleaning putty.
• Washable: You can wash washable wallpaper in the same way as washable wall paint. Pat the wall dry immediately after washing to prevent water from seeping into the wallpaper’s seams.
• Scrubbable: Even on scrubbable wallpaper, avoid using abrasive cleansers or stiff-bristled scrub brushes. Wash scrubbable wallpaper as though it were washable wallpaper, and scrub stubborn spots with a toothbrush dipped in a mild scouring cleanser.