How to Clean and Care for Acrylic Wall Prints

Quick Answer

To clean an acrylic wall print safely, use a soft microfiber cloth, a mild soap-and-water solution, and gentle circular motions. Avoid paper towels, ammonia-based cleaners, and abrasive scrubbing.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Routine

1. Dust Gently with a Microfiber Cloth: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to lightly wipe the surface in straight strokes. Do not press hard or use circular motions at this stage. This removes loose dust without grinding particles into the acrylic. A common mistake is using a feather duster or dry paper towel — both can leave micro-scratches.
2. Prepare a Mild Cleaning Solution: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with distilled or filtered water. Avoid tap water if it's hard, as mineral deposits can leave streaks. Dampen a fresh microfiber cloth with the solution — it should be barely moist, not wet. Too much moisture can seep behind the print or into the mounting block. Wring the cloth well before use.
3. Wipe in Gentle Circular Motions: Starting from the top, clean the print using soft, circular motions with light pressure. Work in small sections and rinse or flip the cloth often to avoid redepositing dirt. For stubborn spots, let the solution sit for a few seconds before wiping. Do not scrub aggressively — acrylic scratches easily. If a spot doesn't come off, repeat with a fresh cloth section rather than applying more force.
4. Dry Immediately with a Separate Cloth: Use a second dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface dry. This prevents water spots and ensures no lint remains. Buff in the same circular motion until the print looks clear and streak-free. Leaving the print to air-dry can cause mineral spots or streaks. Always dry by hand.
5. Inspect and Repeat if Needed: Hold the print at an angle under good light to check for remaining smudges or dust. If you see any, repeat steps 2–4 on those areas only. For routine maintenance, a quick dry dusting every 1–2 weeks is usually enough. Over-cleaning can wear down the UV flood coat over time. Clean only when visibly dusty or smudged.

Product Spotlight

• Acrylic Wall Print: Acrylic Wall Prints feature a white UV flood coat for image protection and museum quality exceptionally vivid color. The UV flood coat protects the print from fading, but it also means the surface is sensitive to harsh chemicals, so gentle cleaning is essential to preserve both the coat and the vibrant colors.