Cleaning Flocked Wallpaper

Question

I've got a white on white flocked wallpaper bathroom. Just (it's been a year or so) decided that it is getting dirty. It is water proof. What do I use to clean it with?

The Garden Frog with C Renee · Answer

Do not use spray bottles of water or cleaners on it. Even though most wallpaper is water resistant, that does not mean it is water proof. You need only wipe /dust the wallpaper with a soft cloth or even vacuum with the soft bristle brush on the end of the vacuum to avoid scarring the walls. If the wallpaper gets dirty there are special products out there to clean it. I think it is called dough and it like an eraser to get rid of dirt. Sold at wallpaper stores or maybe even Lowes? I remember seeing it years ago when I worked in a design store. good luck!

Margaret Swanton · Answer

I agree with @The Garden Frog with C Renee the worst thing you could do is use water or water-based products directly on your wallpaper. Renee's methods are the best you could think of: a microfibre cloth or a vacuum cleaner are your best friends when it comes to cleaning wallpaper. Having heard about the dough, I remembered an except of the 'The Good Housewife Guide' ( http://www.historyextra.com/book-review/good-wifes-guide-le-m%C3%A9nagier-de-paris ). Somewhere in it, the author explained how wallpapers used to be cleaned with bread. I doubt that you would go for this option but my grandmother actually guaranteed that it worked :)

Cathy W · Answer

Renee and Margaret, Thanks Ladies. Will let my fingers do the walking and investigate Home Depot, Lowes, and wall paper shops! If any is known (given the ages of the clerks) I will try it. BUT first I will try microfiber! Didn't realize what a chore it would be when I put it up several years ago. 'Dough' sounds interesting.
 Wanted to keep the charm of our 1920s bungalow without being too blatant. Sigh! Best laid plans of mice and (wo)men gone awry.

Cathy W · Answer

Thanks for the answers, but I'm still hoping for more ideas. If there are any.... Will start with microfibre for sure!

Gretel · Answer

HI Cathy did you ever find a good way to clean your flocked wallpaper? I have one dirty patch on my flocked bathroom wallpaper only 5 inches round, but afraid to use any cleaner that someone cant vouch for somewhat

Deb K · Answer

Hi Cathy, hope this helps you out, You can clean it by using a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. This is a must if your wallpaper is textured or flocked. Be careful in removing cobwebs as brushing them away may cause streaks on the wall. A sponge cleaner is ideal for textured wallpapers. Slightly soak a massive sponge in a mild degreaser to clean the affected section. If the sponge is too wet, it might lift the wallpaper as you swipe it. Clean your wall covering with even strokes to remove dirt and stains effectively.

Cleaning Flocked Wallpaper

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Cleaning Flocked Wallpaper

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