By If you’ve invested in designer wallpaper, you naturally want this high-end wall decor looking pristine all year round – especially during the damp, chilly months of winter. Whether you live in a coastal suburb with salty air or deal with condensation in older homes, winter can put your walls to the test. Humidity, lack of airflow, and temperature shifts can encourage mould, cause warping, or dull the finish of even the most premium wall coverings and luxury wall murals.
The good news? With the right care routine, your wallpaper can stay as flawless as the day it was installed. Let’s walk through some easy and effective ways to clean and maintain your feature walls throughout winter.
Understanding the Impact of Moisture on Wallpaper
Moisture is the biggest challenge during winter. According to Australia’s Your Home sustainability guide, poor ventilation and indoor heating can create the perfect environment for condensation – especially on external walls. This is particularly problematic for luxury wall murals and high-end wall decor, where texture, fabric blends, or metallics may be more sensitive than standard vinyl wallpapers.
Paper-backed wallpapers and natural fibre finishes (like grasscloth) are especially prone to absorbing moisture. Even some designer wallpaper brands recommend using a dehumidifier in winter-prone homes to preserve the life of the materials.
Step-by-Step Winter Cleaning Tips
Dust regularly
Dust build-up can trap moisture and create a musty smell. Use a clean microfibre cloth or soft brush attachment on your vacuum to gently remove dust from the surface. Always dust from top to bottom to avoid streaks.
Use a dry sponge or rubber eraser for marks
For high-end wall decor, never use a wet cloth or general-purpose sprays. Instead, use a dry wallpaper sponge or artist’s eraser to gently lift scuffs or smudges.
Spot-clean with care
If you must spot-clean (for example, if there’s a cooking splatter or fingerprint), dampen a soft cloth with a mixture of lukewarm water and mild dish soap. Test a small, hidden area first. Avoid abrasive cleaners and never soak the wallpaper.
Address condensation immediately
Keep a close eye on windows and exterior walls. If you notice condensation forming near your luxury wall murals, dry the area straight away and ventilate the space. Open windows for at least 15 minutes daily or install a small fan to improve air circulation.
Use a dehumidifier
A compact dehumidifier can work wonders during wet seasons. Keeping relative humidity between 40–60% reduces the risk of wallpaper bubbling, peeling, or developing mould. This is especially important if you’ve installed designer wallpaper in bathrooms or south-facing rooms.
Winter Maintenance Must-Dos
- Avoid direct heat: Don’t place portable heaters directly against wallpapered walls. Sudden heat can damage adhesive and cause curling at the edges.
- Seal windows and doors: Draughts lead to cold spots that attract moisture. Weather-seal windows and insulate gaps to stabilise indoor temperatures.
- Wipe down skirting boards and ceiling edges: These are hotspots for dust and moisture, which can creep onto the wallpaper from the bottom or top.
Professional Help for Stubborn Moisture Issues or Wallpaper Replacement
If mould has already taken hold behind your designer wallpaper or it’s begun to peel, it’s best to call a professional. In some cases, the wallpaper may need to be removed, the wall treated, and a new layer reapplied. Speak to your wallpaper supplier or installer in Melbourne for guidance, particularly if you’ve invested in delicate high-end wall decor or artisanal luxury wall murals.