How to Clean and Care for Your Picture Frame
A little regular care can keep your picture frame looking beautiful for years while helping protect the artwork, photograph, or print inside.
CustomPictureFrames.com frames typically include a wood frame, acrylic glazing, and backing material. Each component should be cleaned a little differently to avoid scratches, moisture damage, or unnecessary wear.
What You'll Need
Before you begin, gather a few simple supplies:
- A soft, lint-free microfiber cloth
- A second clean, dry cloth
- Mild dish soap and water, if needed
- A soft-bristled brush or duster for detailed or textured frames
- A soft towel or clean surface to rest the frame on while cleaning
For the safest cleaning, take the frame off the wall and place it face-up on a clean, padded surface before you begin.
Step 1: Remove Loose Dust
Start by gently dusting the entire frame with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
Work carefully around the edges, corners, and decorative details to remove loose dust and debris. If your frame has a textured or detailed finish, use a soft-bristled brush or duster to reach small grooves and crevices.
Avoid pressing hard or scrubbing the frame. Gentle cleaning is usually all that is needed for routine maintenance.
Step 2: Clean the Acrylic Glazing
Acrylic glazing is lightweight, durable, and shatter-resistant, but it can scratch more easily than traditional glass. Always use a soft, clean microfiber cloth when cleaning it.
For light dust or fingerprints, gently wipe the acrylic with a dry microfiber cloth.
If additional cleaning is needed, lightly dampen the cloth with water and wipe the surface using gentle strokes.
For more stubborn fingerprints or marks, mix a small amount of mild dish soap with water. Apply the diluted solution to the cloth, not directly to the acrylic, then gently wipe the surface. Follow with a separate clean, slightly damp cloth if necessary, and finish by drying the acrylic with a soft microfiber cloth.
Avoid Using on Acrylic
Do not use:
- Paper towels
- Rough or abrasive cloths
- Ammonia-based cleaners
- Household glass cleaners
- Abrasive cleaning products
- Harsh chemicals
These products can scratch, haze, cloud, or otherwise damage the acrylic surface.
Step 3: Clean the Wood Frame
For routine cleaning, gently wipe the wood frame with a soft, dry cloth.
If dusting alone is not enough, lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with water and carefully wipe the surface. The cloth should be damp, not wet.
Avoid soaking the wood or allowing moisture to collect around corners, joints, seams, or along the edge of the glazing.
After cleaning, dry the frame immediately with a clean, soft cloth.
Avoid Using on the Frame
Unless specifically recommended for your frame's finish, avoid:
- Abrasive cleaners
- Furniture polish
- Waxes
- Solvents or harsh chemicals
- Excessive water or moisture
These products may alter the sheen, finish, or appearance of the moulding.
Step 4: Care for the Backing
The back of your frame should generally be kept dry.
Use a soft, dry cloth, duster, or soft-bristled brush to gently remove accumulated dust. Avoid applying water or cleaning products to the backing material.
Excess moisture can cause certain backing materials to warp, swell, stain, or deteriorate.
While the frame is off the wall, this is also a good opportunity to inspect the hanging hardware and make sure everything remains secure.
How to Keep Your Picture Frame Looking Its Best
A few simple habits can help extend the life of both your frame and the piece inside it:
- Always use clean, soft materials when cleaning your frame.
- Never spray water or cleaning solution directly onto the acrylic or wood.
- Avoid excessive moisture, especially around the frame's edges, corners, and backing.
- Support the frame securely when moving or cleaning it.
- Avoid placing framed pieces where they will be exposed to excessive heat or humidity.
- Limit prolonged direct sunlight when possible, particularly for artwork and photographs that may be sensitive to fading.
- Dust your frame periodically rather than allowing heavy buildup to accumulate.
- Check hanging hardware occasionally, especially on larger or heavier frames.
How Often Should You Clean a Picture Frame?
Most picture frames do not need frequent deep cleaning. Light dusting every few weeks or whenever visible dust begins to accumulate is usually enough.
Fingerprints on the acrylic can be cleaned as needed. More thorough cleaning should only be necessary occasionally.
The key is to clean gently and avoid unnecessary moisture or harsh cleaning products.
Protect Your Frame and What's Inside It
Proper frame care does not require special equipment or complicated cleaning products. In most cases, a clean microfiber cloth, a little water, and gentle handling are all you need.
By keeping the frame, acrylic glazing, and backing clean and dry, your picture frame can continue to protect and beautifully display your artwork, photographs, posters, certificates, and other keepsakes for years to come.