As someone who has spent years helping people print their most cherished memories on canvas and acrylic, I’ve seen the joy these prints bring to a home or workspace. But if you want that joy to last, caring for your prints the right way is essential.

Both canvas and acrylic photo prints can last for decades—if you treat them with a little attention and care. In this article, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about keeping your artwork looking as vivid and stunning as the day you received it.

1. Why Proper Care Matters

It’s easy to forget that prints are made with sensitive materials. Canvas is a woven fabric, and while it’s durable, it can collect dust and react poorly to moisture. Acrylic, with its glossy surface, resists moisture better but can scratch if handled carelessly.

Without proper cleaning and placement, even the highest-quality print can fade, warp, or become damaged over time. Good care habits protect your investment and keep your space looking polished.

2. Ideal Placement: Protecting Your Prints Before You Clean Them

Before we even talk about cleaning, it’s important to hang your prints in the right place. Here are some best practices:

• Keep prints out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Avoid placing them above heat sources like radiators or stoves.
• Choose walls that aren’t exposed to excessive humidity or moisture (especially for canvas).
• Use stable hanging systems to prevent tilting or falls.

Good placement reduces the amount of cleaning your print will need and extends its lifespan significantly.

3. Cleaning Your Canvas Prints

Canvas prints bring warmth and texture to any space, but their surface can trap dust more easily than acrylic. Here’s how to clean them safely:

Dusting:

• Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
• Gently wipe the surface in circular motions.
• Do not press too hard or rub vigorously.

Deeper Cleaning:

• Never use water or cleaning solutions on canvas—it can warp or stain.
• If your canvas has a persistent mark, try a dry sponge or artist’s eraser.
• For very dirty or aged prints, consult a professional cleaner.

Storage Tips:

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light.
• Lay flat or stand vertically (never stack prints without protection).
• Wrap in acid-free paper or cloth to avoid abrasion.

1. Cleaning Your Acrylic Prints

Acrylic is durable, modern, and vibrant—but it needs the right tools for safe cleaning. Because of its glossy finish, it can attract fingerprints and smudges, especially in high-touch areas like offices or entryways.

Dusting:

• Use a dry microfiber or anti-static cloth.
• Wipe gently in straight strokes (avoid circular rubbing to prevent static buildup).

For Fingerprints and Smudges:

• Dampen the cloth with distilled water or a 1:1 mix of water and isopropyl alcohol.
• Never spray directly on the acrylic—spray onto the cloth.
• Avoid glass cleaners with ammonia, which can cause clouding or damage.

Scratch Prevention:

• Don’t use paper towels or tissues.
• Never clean with abrasive materials.
• If a scratch appears, a specialty acrylic polish might help (ask your print provider).

1. Handling Your Prints with Care

Whether you’re moving, redecorating, or rotating your wall art, always handle your prints carefully:

• Wash your hands before touching prints.
• Hold acrylic prints from the sides—never touch the surface.
• When moving canvas, support the frame to avoid sagging or stretching the fabric.

1. Routine Maintenance Schedule

To keep your artwork fresh:

• Dust every 1–2 weeks in low-traffic areas.
• In kitchens or bathrooms, check for grime buildup monthly.
• For commercial spaces, consider a more frequent cleaning schedule.

A little consistency goes a long way.

7. Framing and Display Options That Help Preserve Your Prints

Adding a frame (especially for canvas) helps protect the edges and adds to the longevity of your artwork. Choose materials that don’t react with your print surface.

Acrylic prints often come with float mounts or standoffs that create separation from the wall—this helps with airflow and reduces dust accumulation behind the print.

Avoid sticking prints directly to walls with adhesives or tape, as this can damage both the print and the paint.

8. When to Replace or Reprint

Even with the best care, prints can eventually age. If you notice fading, discoloration, or irreversible damage, it may be time to reprint.

Reprinting gives you a chance to update the size, switch from canvas to acrylic, or even enhance the photo quality with modern edits.

9. Bonus Tips for Long-Term Preservation

• If possible, request UV-protective coating from your printer.
• Keep a digital backup of the original image for easy replacement.
• Avoid displaying prints in direct contact with windows or fluorescent lights.

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using harsh chemicals or cleaning sprays
• Wiping canvas with a wet cloth
• Hanging in high-moisture areas without protection
• Dragging prints when moving them
• Using cheap hanging hooks that can come loose

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your canvas and acrylic prints isn’t hard—it just takes a little mindfulness. These pieces often represent cherished memories, milestones, or personal achievements, and they deserve the same care you’d give any prized possession.

When in doubt, ask your print provider for guidance. Whether it’s about cleaning, mounting, or reprinting, it’s always better to ask first than to risk damage.

I hope these tips help you protect and enjoy your wall art for many years to come!