How to Properly Clean and Maintain Your Photo Frames

Clean photo frames enhance your home's appearance and protect your cherished photographs. Dust, fingerprints, and environmental grime accumulate over time, dulling the beauty of both the frame and the image within. However, cleaning frames incorrectly can cause more harm than good, potentially damaging finishes, scratching glazing, or even harming the photographs themselves.

This guide provides material-specific cleaning instructions to keep all your frames looking their best safely and effectively.

General Cleaning Principles

Before diving into material-specific advice, these universal principles apply to all frame types:

• Never spray directly onto frames: Always apply cleaning products to your cloth first
• Test in an inconspicuous area: Before using any product, test on a hidden spot
• Work gently: Aggressive scrubbing damages finishes and glazing
• Remove from wall if possible: Cleaning is easier and more thorough on a flat surface
• Dry completely: Moisture left in joints or behind glazing causes long-term problems

Cleaning Wooden Frames

Wood requires the gentlest approach to avoid damaging finishes or introducing moisture that can cause warping.

Weekly Dusting

1. Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth or lamb's wool duster
2. Wipe following the wood grain direction
3. Pay attention to carved details and corners where dust accumulates
4. Dust the back of the frame as well

Monthly Deep Cleaning

1. Remove the frame from the wall and lay it flat
2. Slightly dampen a microfibre cloth with plain water—wring thoroughly
3. Wipe the frame surface following the grain
4. Immediately follow with a dry cloth to remove all moisture
5. Allow to air dry completely before rehanging

For Stubborn Marks

• Mix a tiny amount of mild dish soap in warm water
• Dip cloth, wring until nearly dry
• Gently clean the affected area
• Wipe with clean damp cloth to remove soap residue
• Dry immediately and thoroughly

Cleaning Metal Frames

Metal frames are generally more forgiving than wood but require attention to prevent fingerprint buildup and potential corrosion.

For Aluminium and Stainless Steel

1. Dust with a soft dry cloth first
2. Dampen a microfibre cloth with water or a solution of water and mild dish soap
3. Wipe the entire frame surface
4. Dry immediately with a clean, lint-free cloth
5. For brushed finishes, always wipe in the direction of the brush marks

For Brass and Copper

• If you want to maintain shine, use a specialised brass/copper polish following product instructions
• If you prefer the natural patina, simply dust regularly and avoid moisture
• Clear lacquered brass/copper should be cleaned like aluminium—never use polish on lacquered surfaces

Cleaning Acrylic and Plastic Frames

These materials scratch easily, requiring special care during cleaning.

Essential Precautions

• Never use paper towels: They contain wood fibres that scratch acrylic
• Avoid circular motions: Wipe in straight lines only
• Skip household glass cleaners: Many contain chemicals that fog or damage plastic

Cleaning Process

1. Blow away loose dust first (or use a very soft brush)
2. Use a dedicated plastic/acrylic cleaner or a solution of mild soap and water
3. Apply to a clean microfibre cloth, never directly to the surface
4. Wipe gently in straight lines
5. Dry with a separate clean microfibre cloth

Cleaning Glass Glazing

The glass covering your photograph needs regular cleaning but improper techniques can harm both the glass and the frame.

Recommended Method

1. Remove frame from wall and lay flat, glass side up
2. Spray glass cleaner onto a lint-free cloth (not the glass)
3. Wipe the glass surface in straight, overlapping strokes
4. Use a dry portion of the cloth to buff away streaks
5. Clean the frame edges last to avoid drips onto clean glass

Natural Alternative

For those preferring chemical-free cleaning:

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and distilled water
• Apply to cloth and clean as above
• Works excellently on glass without risk to frames

Cleaning Behind the Glass

If dust or debris has accumulated inside your frame, you'll need to disassemble it carefully:

1. Remove the backing and any clips or points holding it in place
2. Carefully remove the photograph and mat (handle by edges only)
3. Clean the inside of the glass using methods above
4. Use compressed air or a very soft brush to clean the frame interior
5. Reassemble once all components are completely dry

Seasonal Maintenance Schedule

Create a routine to keep all your frames in top condition:

• Weekly: Quick dusting of all visible frames
• Monthly: Deep clean frames in high-traffic areas
• Quarterly: Clean all frames including glass/glazing
• Annually: Inspect for damage, check hanging hardware, assess whether photos need repositioning to avoid uneven fading

Products to Avoid

These common household products can damage frames:

• Furniture polish: Builds up residue and can damage some finishes
• Bleach or bleach-based cleaners: Discolours materials and damages finishes
• Acetone or nail polish remover: Dissolves plastics and damages lacquers
• Abrasive cleaners or scouring pads: Scratch all surfaces
• WD-40 or silicone sprays: Leave residues that attract more dust

With regular, appropriate cleaning, your photo frames will continue to beautifully showcase your precious memories for many years to come.

Looking for frames that are easier to maintain? Browse our collection featuring frames with durable finishes and low-maintenance materials.