A Gallerist's Guide to Cleaning Your Artwork

March 20th, 2024

Whether it's a family heirloom, framed fingerpainting, collector's piece, or contemporary artwork, the pieces we display in our homes are valuable to us. With a little knowledge and a few supplies you likely already have in your home, caring for your artwork can be a stress-free addition to your household routine. Read on for the dos and don'ts of cleaning your artwork—and when to consult a professional.

Stretch by Aaron Hazel

Do: dust regularly. Very little cleaning is necessary in most cases as long as you keep up with regular dusting! Use a feather duster or microfiber cloth to gently wipe the frame and the artwork.

Don't: dust aggressively. Do not use a vacuum or a stiff brush to clean and scrub your artwork. This can damage both the frame and the artwork.

Once by Kathy Bonnema Leslie

Do: clean the glass when necessary. Sometimes spots and grime will appear on glass. Use an ammonia-free glass cleaner and microfiber cloth to spot clean the glass. After gently dusting the artwork, spray the cleaner onto the cloth before wiping the affected areas. For extra stability, we recommend laying the artwork on a flat surface rather than cleaning while it is hung.

Don't: spray directly onto the glass. It is important to avoid drips and spills that could damage your framing and artwork, so always spray the microfiber cloth. Avoid using paper towels or anything that could scratch the glass (remember: a dirty microfiber cloth can also cause damage)!

Rise by Johne Richardson

Do: hang your artwork strategically. Hanging your artwork in places like the kitchen or bathroom can expose them to extreme conditions and various residues - be thoughtful about humidity, sunlight, and particulates when choosing where to place your artwork in your home.

Don't: DIY serious repairs. Years of exposure to smoke and other residues may mean your artwork needs to be cleaned professionally. Although there are articles out there with various DIY tips, it isn't worth the potential damage to your artwork! We are happy to provide recommendations for qualified conservators. When in doubt, don't be afraid to ask!

Looking for more knowledge about artwork and framing? Check out our posts on types of glazing, artwork and sunlight, and tips for hanging artwork in your home!