How to Clean and Maintain Photo Frames | FrameVilla

Learn the best ways to clean, protect, and maintain your photo frames—wood, glass, metal, and more. Frame care tips to keep them looking new.

Why Frame Care Matters

Proper care keeps your frames looking sharp, prevents damage to photos or artwork, and extends the life of both frame and glass. This applies to all types—wood, metal, acrylic, or composite.

🧼 How to Clean Photo Frame Glass

For standard glass or acrylic fronts:

• Use a microfiber cloth (avoid tissue or paper).
• Spray glass cleaner on the cloth, not directly on the frame.
• Wipe gently in circular motions.

Avoid:

• Harsh chemicals
• Soaking edges or wooden borders
• Excess pressure near corners

🪵 Caring for Wooden Frames

Dusting:

• Use a dry microfiber or feather duster weekly.

Deeper Cleaning:

• Slightly damp soft cloth (water only or diluted wood polish).
• Dry immediately to prevent swelling or warping.

What to avoid:

• Direct sunlight (can fade polish or paint)
• High humidity or wet walls
• Nail scratches or rough cloths

🧲 Caring for Metal or Matte Frames

For aluminum, brass, or coated metal frames:

• Wipe with a soft cloth (slightly damp if needed).
• Avoid abrasive pads or alcohol-based cleaners.

Tip:
Use a bit of olive oil on a cotton cloth to restore matte black finishes or remove smudges.

🧃 Keep Frames Away From Moisture

• Don’t hang frames on damp or newly painted walls.
• Use silica gel pouches inside large frames if in humid areas.
• For kitchens or bathrooms, use sealed or acrylic-front frames only.

📌 Handling & Re-Hanging Tips

• Always hold from both sides (not just one edge).
• For glass-front frames, never lift from the top corner.
• Use wall-safe hooks or rubber bumpers behind to avoid slipping and wall stains.

🧳 Storage Tips (If Not Hanging)

• Wrap each frame in bubble wrap or soft cotton cloth.
• Stack vertically, not flat, to prevent pressure cracks.
• Avoid attic or garage storage—humidity and pests can ruin frames over time.