Vinyl decals are durable and easy to maintain. With the right cleaning approach, your wall decals will continue to look great for years. This guide covers how to safely clean around and over your decals, what products to avoid, how to remove decals when you are ready for a change, and how to prepare the surface for new ones.

The Good News About Vinyl Decals

The ink used in vinyl decals is waterproof. This means it will not fade, drip, or peel when exposed to water during normal cleaning. You can confidently clean your walls without worrying about damaging the colors or design of your decals.

Cleaning Walls with Decals

Keeping your walls clean around and over vinyl decals is straightforward. Here is what you need to know:

  • Safe to use: Water or a mild dish soap solution
  • Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe the wall surface
  • Gently wipe around and over the decals – there is no need to avoid them

For regular dusting, a dry microfiber cloth works well. For deeper cleaning, dampen the cloth with water or a small amount of mild dish soap mixed with water.

Products to Avoid

While vinyl decals are durable, certain cleaning products and methods can cause damage over time. Avoid the following:

  • Ammonia-based cleaners (such as window cleaners) – these can break down the vinyl adhesive and cause edges to lift
  • Vinegar-based cleaners – the acidity can degrade the vinyl material over time
  • Rough sponges or stiff brushes near decal edges – these can catch and lift the edges of the vinyl, causing peeling
Important Harsh chemical cleaners and rough scrubbing near the edges of your decals can cause them to lift, peel, or become damaged. Always use gentle cleaning methods and soft materials when cleaning around your vinyl decals.

How to Remove Decals

When you are ready to update your decor, removing vinyl decals is a simple process:

  • Simply peel off manually – most matte vinyl decals can be peeled off by hand with minimal effort
  • For easier removal, use a hair dryer to gently heat the adhesive first. The warmth softens the adhesive bond and makes the vinyl more pliable.
  • Peel slowly at a sharp angle – pulling the vinyl back at a tight angle against the wall reduces the chance of tearing or leaving residue behind

Preparing for New Decals

After removing old decals, follow these steps to prepare the wall for a fresh application:

  1. Clean the Area Wipe the area with a damp sponge and a small amount of mild dish soap. This removes any leftover adhesive residue, dust, or dirt from the surface.
  2. Ensure the Surface Is Dry Let the wall dry completely before applying anything new. Any moisture left on the surface will prevent the new decal from adhering properly.
  3. Wait If You Repaint If you decide to paint the wall before applying new decals, wait at least 2 weeks for the paint to fully cure. See our guide on applying decals to newly painted walls for detailed instructions.
  4. Apply Your New Decal Once the surface is clean, dry, and fully cured (if repainted), you are ready to apply your new decal. Position it carefully and follow the standard application process.
Pro Tip For long-lasting results, keep your vinyl decals away from direct heat sources (such as radiators, heating vents, or fireplaces) and areas with excessive moisture (such as directly above a shower or stove). While vinyl is durable, prolonged exposure to extreme heat or humidity can shorten its lifespan.

Learn More

For additional cleaning tips and seasonal care advice, read our full blog post: Spring Cleaning Regimen for Your Vinyl Decals.

If you have any questions about caring for your vinyl decals, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help.