BACKFEB 22, 2026
Finding a stain on your wallpaper can feel like a minor disaster. Unlike a painted wall, you can’t just roll over it with a fresh coat, and scrubbing it too hard might peel the paper right off.
Looking for more guidance? Take a look at our Repairs overview.
But before you start worrying about re-papering the entire room, take a breath. Most wallpaper stains are removable with a little patience and the right technique. The key is knowing exactly what kind of wallpaper you have and treating it gently.
Whether it’s a splash of coffee, a crayon masterpiece from a toddler, or just general grime, this guide will help you assess the damage and clean it up without making things worse.
Before you grab a sponge, we need to rule out a bigger problem. Sometimes what looks like a surface stain is actually water damage coming from behind the wall.
If the wall is damp or bubbling: Stop immediately. This is likely a plumbing leak or roof issue, not a surface stain. Cleaning the surface won't help, and rubbing wet drywall can cause it to crumble. You need a professional to locate and repair the leak.
If the wall is dry: Great. It’s just a stain, and we can likely clean it.
You cannot treat all wallpaper the same way. Vinyl wallpaper is durable and water-resistant, while paper or fabric wallpaper is delicate and absorbent.
If your wallpaper is vinyl, you have more freedom to use moisture.
What you’ll need:
Step 1: The Soap Test Mix one quart of warm water with a teaspoon of dish soap. Dip a microfiber cloth in, wring it out until it is just damp (not dripping), and dab an inconspicuous corner of the wallpaper near the floor. If the pattern or color doesn't transfer to the cloth, you are safe to proceed.
Step 2: Blotting (Water-Based Stains) If the stain is from food, dirt, or beverages:
Step 3: The Baking Soda Paste (Oil/Grease Stains) If the stain is greasy or the soap didn't work:
If your wallpaper is standard paper, you must keep water away from it. Water can cause the paper to warp, bubble, or stain further.
What you’ll need:
Step 1: The Dry Sponge A dry-cleaning sponge (sometimes called a soot sponge) works like an eraser for walls. It lifts dirt without moisture.
Step 2: The Art Gum Eraser If the sponge doesn't get everything, try a soft art gum eraser.
If you have tried these methods and the stain remains—or if the wallpaper starts to fray or lose color—stop. Continuing to clean a stubborn spot usually results in a permanent abrasion mark that looks worse than the original stain.
At this point, you have two options:
Wallpaper adds character to a home, but it does require a gentler touch than paint. Keeping a record of your wallpaper type and leftover scraps can save you a headache later.
If you like keeping your home history organized, Casa is a great place to store details about your finishes—like your wallpaper brand or installation date—so you have them handy when repairs pop up.
Download the Casa app today to keep your home maintenance simple, organized, and stress-free.
