Your picture frames protect your memories — and they deserve proper care. Whether your frame features tempered glass, acrylic (plexiglass), or a solid wood finish, using the right cleaning methods prevents scratches, clouding, and long-term damage.
At Frame Amo, a Texas-based picture frame company serving customers across the United States, we’ve seen how climate, humidity, and sunlight affect frames differently in states like Florida, Arizona, New York, and California. Proper maintenance ensures your frames stay looking new no matter where you live.
Watch: How to Clean & Care for Your Picture Frames
Quick Care Reminders:
- Use a microfiber cloth (never paper towels)
- Spray cleaner onto the cloth — not directly onto the frame
- Avoid ammonia-based cleaners on acrylic
- Check your hanging wire every few months
How to Clean Picture Frame Glass
Tempered glass is durable and scratch-resistant, but improper cleaning can still leave streaks or residue.
Step-by-Step:
- Use a clean microfiber cloth.
- Lightly spray glass cleaner onto the cloth — never directly onto the glass.
- Wipe in circular motions, then finish with vertical strokes.
- Dry with a second clean microfiber cloth to prevent streaking.
Why this matters: Spraying directly onto glass can allow liquid to seep behind the frame moulding and damage artwork or backing materials.
How to Clean Acrylic (Plexiglass) Frames
Acrylic glazing is lighter and shatter-resistant, making it ideal for oversized frames. However, it scratches more easily than glass.
Important:
Never use ammonia-based cleaners (like traditional window cleaners) on acrylic. Ammonia causes clouding and surface damage.
Best Practice:
- Use a microfiber cloth only.
- Use a cleaner labeled safe for acrylic or plastic.
- Wipe gently — avoid aggressive pressure.
This is especially important in warm states like Texas, Arizona, and Nevada where higher temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions.
How to Maintain Solid Wood Picture Frames
Solid wood mouldings require minimal but consistent care.
Dusting:
- Use a dry microfiber cloth weekly.
- Avoid wet cloths unless absolutely necessary.
Moisture Control:
In humid regions such as Florida, Louisiana, or coastal California, avoid placing frames in direct humidity exposure. In dry climates like Colorado or Arizona, occasional conditioning of surrounding air helps prevent wood contraction.
Check Your Hanging Hardware Every 3–6 Months
Over time, hanging wire, D-rings, and wall anchors can loosen.
- Inspect hanging wire tension.
- Ensure screws are tight in the frame backing.
- Replace wall anchors if shifting occurs.
This is especially important for oversized frames with acrylic glazing due to their surface area and wall leverage.
How Often Should You Clean Picture Frames?
Dust weekly.
Deep clean glass or acrylic every 1–2 months.
Inspect hardware twice per year.
Homes in high-dust areas (Texas Hill Country, Arizona desert regions) may require more frequent dusting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Windex on picture frames?
You can use standard glass cleaner on tempered glass only. Never use ammonia-based cleaners on acrylic (plexiglass).
What’s the safest cloth for cleaning frames?
A microfiber cloth is safest. Avoid paper towels, which can scratch both glass and acrylic surfaces.
How do I prevent streaks on glass picture frames?
Spray cleaner onto the cloth instead of directly onto the glass and use a dry microfiber cloth to buff after cleaning.
Do solid wood frames need conditioning?
Generally no. Regular dusting is sufficient. Avoid excess moisture.
Protect Your Investment
Whether you're displaying artwork in a Dallas home, a Chicago condo, or a New York apartment, proper maintenance extends the life of your frames and protects your memories.
Explore our full collection of Solid Wood + Tempered Glass Frames and Large Solid Wood + Acrylic Frames built for durability across all U.S. climates.
Your frames deserve a little love — and with proper care, they’ll last for years to come.
