How to Use Homemade Cleaner on Vinyl Wallpaper

Vinyl wallpaper can last for many, many years with proper care. Without taking some time to keep it maintained it can turn yellow or gray with time and it can even stain. Keep it looking new with these inexpensive cleaners that are perfect for tackling the job.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Solution 1 (Wet)
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 2 quarts water
• Rubber gloves
• Bucket
• Large sponge
• Solution 2-Dry(if you can't use vinegar on your vinyl paper)
• 1/4 cup dish washing liquid
• 1 cup warm water
• Eggbeater

1. Mix your vinegar and water solution up and pour it into a small bucket. Be sure to wear rubber gloves as vinegar can be hard on the skin.

2. Check with your manufacturer to see if vinegar based products can be used on your wallpaper. Some cannot. If yours can't you will have to make up the dry cleaning solution and use that instead. If you can't find out then test a small area in an unobtrusive spot with the wet cleanser before using it.

3. Mix dish washing liquid and warm water for Solution 2. Beat with an eggbeater until it forms a stiff foam. Dip a corner of the sponge into the foam and wipe it over the wall, doing a small section at a time. Rinse with a sponge and clear water that has been wrung nearly dry. Use this if you can't use a vinegar solution.

4. Apply the cleaning solution to the wall with a large sponge. Wipe down the walls with the sponge wring out. If you use too much water it can get under your wallpaper and cause it to lift away from the wall.

5. These simple and inexpensive cleaners will keep your vinyl wall coverings looking as good as new for many years to come. The trick is to clean them before they get too dirty for the best results.

Tips & Warnings

• Use rubber gloves to save your skin from dryness, redness or rash.

[AmyJaine]

on 3/13/2008 Very informative.