Keep your walls looking fresh and your memories protected with simple, safe cleaning steps for tempered glass, acrylic, and solid wood frames. This guide follows best practices used by conservation professionals and is tailored for our customers here in Texas and beyond.
Video: Clean, Dust, and Care for Your Frames
In this short video, we cover microfiber basics, cloth-first spraying, acrylic safety, and routine hardware checks.
1) Start With the Right Tools
- Microfiber cloths instead of paper towels to avoid lint and micro-scratches.
- Gentle cleaners for glazing. For a universal option, use water with a drop of mild dish soap.
- Soft dust brush for frame mouldings and corners.
- Gloves if you are handling artwork without glazing.
2) Handle With Care
When handling frames, avoid touching the glass or acrylic front face directly, as oils from your hands can leave marks or smudges. Always hold the frame by its edges or use clean cotton gloves to prevent fingerprints and maintain clarity.
3) Spray the Cloth, Not the Frame
Moisture can wick under edges and into mat boards. Protect your art by spraying cleaner onto the microfiber cloth, then wiping the surface.
- Glass: Standard glass cleaners are fine. Wipe with light, circular motions.
- Acrylic / Plexiglass: Avoid ammonia. Use an acrylic-safe cleaner or mild soap and water, then buff dry to prevent haze.
4) Use Light Pressure and Support Larger Frames
Clean in small circles with gentle pressure. For large frames, support the bottom edge with your free hand to reduce flex and protect joinery.
5) Care for Solid Wood Finishes
Dust mouldings with a dry, soft cloth. For deeper cleaning, a lightly dampened microfiber cloth is fine, followed by a dry buff. Avoid furniture oils or silicone sprays that can discolor finishes. If your frame is painted or stained, spot test in a discreet area first.
6) Maintain the Matting
If your frame includes a mat, keep it clean by gently brushing with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid moisture — water or cleaner can cause warping or discoloration. Regular light dusting preserves the crisp white or off-white tone of the mat.
7) Secure Hanging and Hardware Checks
Ensure frames are securely hung using appropriate hardware. Use picture hooks, wall anchors, or hanging kits that match the frame’s weight. For larger frames, install two hooks to distribute weight evenly and prevent tilting.
Every few months, inspect D-rings, sawtooth hangers, and hanging wire. Tighten any loose screws and replace frayed wire. This helps prevent accidents and keeps your artwork level.
8) Placement and Climate Control
Where you hang your frames matters as much as how you clean them. Choose a stable, shaded location with consistent indoor conditions:
- Lighting: Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading of photos and artwork.
- Humidity: Keep frames away from high-humidity areas such as bathrooms or kitchens. Moisture can warp wood and ripple paper.
- Temperature: Avoid hanging frames near heating vents or AC units, as fluctuating temperatures can cause expansion or cracking.
For Our Austin and Central Texas Customers
Here in Greater Austin, seasonal humidity shifts are common. If you notice waviness in paper prints, consider mounting options or double-check that bathrooms and kitchens have adequate ventilation. Our team is happy to recommend frame and glazing choices tailored to Texas homes.
Shop Frames Built to Last
Explore our premium solid wood frames with tempered glass or acrylic glazing. Orders ship fast from our Texas studio with careful packaging and support from a small, family-run team.
