How to Clean and Maintain Tapestry Wall Hangings

Tapestry wall hangings are beautiful decorative pieces that require minimal maintenance when properly cared for. Unlike other home furnishings such as clean daybed cushions or items on shelves you organize neatly, tapestries benefit most from preventive care rather than aggressive cleaning. Understanding the right techniques will help preserve your tapestry's color, texture, and structural integrity for years to come.

Regular Dusting and Maintenance

The foundation of tapestry care is regular dusting, which should be your primary maintenance approach. Dust your tapestry occasionally using a soft brush with natural bristles or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment.[2] This simple step is often sufficient to keep your wall hanging looking fresh and prevents dust accumulation that can become embedded in the fibers over time.

When using a vacuum cleaner, connect an upholstery attachment to protect the fabric from damage.[2] Run the attachment down the length of the tapestry from top to bottom, where dust naturally collects when the piece hangs on your wall. You may also flip the tapestry and vacuum the back side, though it typically accumulates less dust than the front.[2]

For those living in particularly dusty environments, consider vacuuming your tapestry twice per year rather than once annually.[6] You can also protect your tapestry from dust by covering it with mesh or transparent cloth when not on display—avoid plastic, which can retain moisture and harm the material.[3]

How Often Should You Clean a Tapestry?

Wall hangings do not require frequent deep cleaning. You can clean your tapestry once or twice per year, with professional dry cleaning recommended at least every four years to maintain the fabric's beauty.[2] If your tapestry is exposed to smoke or other pollutants, increase the cleaning frequency to prevent odors and deterioration.

Hand Cleaning Methods

If your tapestry requires deeper cleaning beyond dusting, hand cleaning is a gentle option, especially for cotton wall hangings. Follow these steps:

• Pass a cloth impregnated with cold water over the entire wall hanging.[1]
• Soak another cloth with white vinegar and clean your hanging by rubbing sufficiently.[1] Avoid ammonia unless you are experienced with it, as incorrect dosages can create health problems.[1]
• Rinse your hanging with cold water and dry it out of the sun.[1]

Machine Washing for Certain Tapestries

If your tapestry is made of cotton and is not hand-woven or composed of delicate materials, machine washing may be appropriate. Use gentle and cold wash options with a small amount of mild detergent.[3] Never wash tapestries in hot water, and do not place other clothes in the machine alongside your tapestry.[3]

If your tapestry has beads or tassels, place it in a washing net to prevent these decorative elements from coming loose.[1] Do not wring out the tapestry; instead, dry it in open air away from direct sunlight.[1]

Treating Specific Stains

Different stains require different approaches. For oil stains, pour a little water mixed with dishwashing liquid on the affected area and rub for a few minutes, then wash at 30°C in the washing machine and air dry.[1]

To remove ink stains, apply mild detergent or alcohol to the stain and rub gently for a few moments. Wash your hanging in the washing machine at 30 degrees, and repeat if the stain persists.[1]

If your tapestry suffers water damage, avoid washing it immediately. Instead, get it dry quickly by laying it flat with bath towels on both sides (a technique called "diapering") and using a fan for air circulation.[4] Do not use heated air from a hairdryer or clothes dryer, and contact a professional restoration specialist if the damage is significant.[4]

Professional Dry Cleaning

Professional dry cleaning should be considered a last resort rather than routine maintenance. Do not dry clean hand-woven tapestries or those made of 100 percent wool; instead, contact a rug cleaner who specializes in high-end carpets or antique textiles.[2] Frequent dry cleaning can harm the material and damage the surface, so reserve this option for serious stains or heavily soiled pieces.

Long-Term Preservation

Beyond cleaning, proper preservation extends your tapestry's lifespan. Handle your tapestry with clean hands to prevent transferring oils and dirt to the fibers.[3] Protect it from direct sunlight to preserve its color and vibrancy, and maintain standard humidity levels in your living area.[3] When storing a tapestry, roll it with the design facing inward rather than folding it, and hang it in a location that is not particularly dusty or polluted.

Much like how you remove scuff marks from floors to maintain your home's appearance, regular tapestry care prevents the need for extensive restoration. By combining routine dusting with proper storage and handling practices, your tapestry wall hanging will remain a beautiful focal point in your home for decades.

More tips in the section Living Room Care & Decor