How to protect and troubleshoot wallpapered furniture: sealing, maintenance, and repairs

So, you’ve done it, you’ve wallpapered a piece of furniture, and it looks incredible. However, if you want your masterpiece to hold up to the daily grind of life, you’re going to find ways to protect it. From sealing to maintenance, there’s actually a lot you can do to ensure your project stands the test of time. We know, this is the part of the process that doesn’t get nearly as much Instagram love but is absolutely essential if you want your furniture to look amazing for years, rather than just weeks.

This article is part of our in-depth series on wallpapering furniture, and if you’re just starting this journey or want to discover useful tips and techniques, be sure to first check out our main article “The ultimate DIY guide to wallpapering furniture: a step-by-step guide for beginners”. Now let’s dive straight into the nitty-gritty of how to care for wallpapered furniture. Grab your sealant, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get to work!

How do I seal my wallpapered furniture to guarantee longevity?

The right sealant doesn’t just protect your hard work; it ensures your furniture can survive the realities of everyday life, from coffee spills to curious pets, sticky fingers, and even the occasional battle with moisture or sunlight. While they should not be applied on vinyl, natural fibre or metallic wallpaper, they can make a huge difference on paper-based and non-woven models. Let’s see which options are available for your project:

Polyurethane

The durability and versatility of polyurethane make it a go-to choice for functional furniture in high-traffic areas or moisture-prone environments, like coffee tables, cabinets and drawers in kitchens and bathrooms or desk surfaces. Water-based polyurethane is suited for light or colourful wallpapers as it dries without discoloration, making it a great choice for modern, bright designs. Some of its biggest advantages are its low odour and quick drying time which make it easy to work with.

However, it’s slightly less durable than its oil-based counterpart. If your project features a darker wallpaper, oil-based polyurethane can be a better option as its amber tint adds warmth and richness to the finish. It’s also more durable, but it takes longer to dry, emits a stronger odour, and it might slightly alter the appearance of lighter wallpapers. To apply a polyurethane sealant to wallpapered furniture, follow these steps:

1. Preparation is key
   Always start with a clean, dry surface. Dust or residue can interfere with adhesion, so wipe down your furniture thoroughly before sealing.
2. Apply thin coats
   Use a foam brush or high-quality roller to apply thin, even layers. Thick coats are more likely to result in drips, streaks, or uneven drying.
3. Sand between coats
   For a flawless, professional finish, lightly sand each dried layer with fine-grit sandpaper. Be sure to remove all dust before applying the next coat.
4. Mind the edges
   
   
   Edges and corners are the most vulnerable parts of furniture. Add an extra layer of polyurethane to these areas for added protection against wear and tear.
5. Drying time matters
   Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next. Wait 2 to 4 hours for water-based polyurethane and up to 24 hours for the oil-based version. Rushing this step can result in bubbling or a tacky surface.
6. Ventilate your workspace
   Oil-based polyurethane emits a strong odour, so work in a well-ventilated area.

Acrylic sprays

Lightweight and user-friendly, acrylic sprays are well suited for furniture with carved details or textured surfaces where traditional brushes might leave streaks. They can also be used for refreshing or resealing furniture that already has a protective layer. Since it’s a spray, it ensures consistent coverage, especially on uneven or detailed surfaces. It also dries faster than many brush-applied sealants.

They are however not a jack-of-all-trades, as they are not as robust as polyurethane or varnishes, making them less suitable for high-traffic or moisture-prone surfaces. They are also more expensive than other sealants - and for larger furniture, multiple cans may be needed. To apply acrylic spray on wallpapered furniture, we recommend that you follow these guidelines:

1. Do some prep work
   Work in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors. If you are working in a room, use a drop cloth to protect surrounding surfaces from overspray, using painter’s tape to cover handles, knobs, or exposed wood sections. If you are working on a small project, consider placing it in a cardboard box to contain the spray.
2. Prepare the furniture
   Ensure the wallpapered surface is clean, dry, and dust-free. For older projects, lightly sand the surface to help the spray adhere better.
3. Shake the can thoroughly and apply in thin layers
   Mix the contents well to avoid clumps. Then hold the can 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches) away from the surface and apply an even coat in sweeping motions. Avoid spraying too closely, as this can cause drips.
4. Dry between coats
   Allow 10 to 15 minutes for each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat. Let the piece cure fully (24 to 48 hours) before using it.

Remember: It’s always a good idea to test the spray on a small, hidden area to ensure it doesn’t alter the wallpaper’s colour or texture.

Decoupage mediums

Easy to use and versatile, decoupage mediums (for example Mod Podge) are a popular choice when it comes to wallpapering furniture. Since they don’t pack the same heavy-duty punch as polyurethane, decoupage mediums are better suited for decorative furniture or pieces that won’t see heavy wear and tear, like vintage side tables, unusual cabinets, or accent shelves. One of the advantages of decoupage mediums is that they are incredibly forgiving and simple to use, even for beginners. A soft brush or sponge applicator is all you need to achieve smooth, even coverage. They form a clear protective layer that keeps intricate wallpaper designs intact without distorting or overpowering them. To apply them, follow these tips:

1. Start with a smooth surface
   Ensure your wallpapered furniture is clean, dry, and free of dust before applying the medium. Uneven surfaces can cause clumps or streaks.
2. Thin, even coats are the key to success
   Apply the decoupage medium in thin, even layers, using a soft brush or sponge. This prevents bubbling or streaking and creates a smooth finish.
3. Layer strategically
   For added durability, especially on areas that might see occasional use, apply between 2 and 3 coats. Allow each layer to dry completely before adding the next to avoid clouding or tackiness.
4. Seal with a spray topcoat
   For extra protection on functional furniture, follow up with a light spray sealant. This step enhances durability without compromising the finish.

Exploring different finishes for sealing wallpapered furniture

All the options above are available in a variety of finishes. From matte to satin and gloss, each offers distinct characteristics suited to different needs and design preferences. Choosing the right one requires you to think about which style you seek to achieve, whether the piece of furniture will the exposed to high-intensity usage and also the type of lighting that will illuminate it.

Matte finish

Matte finishes provide smooth, non-reflective surfaces that don’t draw attention with excessive shine, letting the beauty of the wallpaper and furniture design speak for itself. This makes matte finishes ideal for old furniture and rustic vintage, styles where simplicity is key, as they hide imperfections and minor flaws. They don’t show fingerprints or smudges as easily as glossy finishes and create less glare, making it a great choice for furniture placed in brightly lit rooms or spaces with strong natural light.

Satin finish

Satin strikes a balance between matte and gloss, offering subtle sheen without being overly reflective and adding depth to wallpaper patterns. It works well with furniture that bridges modern and traditional styles, like dining tables or cabinets, and resist smudges and dirt better than matte while being easier to maintain than high gloss.

Gloss finish

Gloss adds a high level of shine and reflection, emphasising the vibrancy of wallpaper designs and making bold or intricate patterns pop. Its polished look is perfect for furniture in modern or high-contrast spaces, such as side tables, coffee tables, or accent chairs, as well as spaces with limited light where gloss can help reflect the available light for a more spacious feel. However, gloss finishes tend to show fingerprints, smudges, and scratches more easily and amplify imperfections like bumps or uneven wallpaper application.

How to properly maintain and clean wallpapered surfaces

While the right sealant provides a solid foundation of protection, proper cleaning and preventive maintenance can go a long way in preserving both the beauty and functionality of your wallpapered furniture.

Cleaning tips, and why gentle care goes a long way

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent dirt and grime from building up. It is however important to be mindful of the materials you are working with. Wallpapered furniture can be delicate, so the right approach makes all the difference:

• Use only soft materials
  
  
  To wipe down your furniture make sure you only use a soft, damp cloth. Abrasive sponges or rough scrubbers can scratch or damage the sealant, leaving the wallpaper vulnerable.
• Be careful when dealing with stains
  Stains happen, whether it’s an accidental coffee spill on your newly wallpapered side table or a mystery smudge that magically appeared overnight. The key to tackling these blemishes without harming your furniture is to proceed cautiously. Create a mild soap solution using warm water and a gentle detergent. Before diving in, test your solution on a small, hidden section of the furniture to ensure it doesn’t affect the wallpaper’s finish or cause discoloration.
• Avoid harsh chemicals
  Searching for a quick fix for a stubborn stain, you might be tempted to reach for harsher chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners. Just don’t! These aggressive substances can break down the protective sealant, leaving your wallpaper vulnerable to wear, peeling or even discolouring whilst creating unsightly patches that are nearly impossible to repair.

Preventive maintenance to prolong the life of your furniture

When it comes to high-use furniture, the old adage "prevention is better than cure" certainly rings true. A few simple precautions can save you time and effort in the long run:

• Use coasters and placemats
  
  
  On coffee tables, side tables, or dining furniture, coasters and placemats are your best friends, as they can protect against water rings, heat marks, and accidental spills.
• Mind the sunlight
  Direct sunlight can fade even the most vibrant wallpaper over time. Try, if possible, to position your furniture out of direct sunlight or use window treatments to reduce UV exposure.
• Protect floors and surfaces
  If you wallpapered the legs of a piece of furniture, consider adding felt pads or rubber protectors to them.
• Refresh the sealant
  Over time, the protective layer from your sealant will wear down, especially on high-use furniture. Reapply a fresh layer every few years to help maintain durability and keep your furniture looking polished.

How to troubleshoot wear and tear in wallpapered furniture

No matter how much love and effort you’ve poured into your wallpapered furniture and how carefully you have followed the advice we provided above - life happens! Coffee cups leave their mark, curious kids leave handprints, and gravity doesn’t always play fair. You have to accept the fact that high-use pieces are likely to face the occasional battle scar. The good news is that wear and tear is not necessarily the end of your beloved project:

Peeling edges

Wallpaper lifting at corners or along seams is often caused by inadequate adhesion, high humidity, or physical contact. To fix a peeling edge, simply reapply the adhesive glue under it using a small brush, then smooth it back into place using a soft tool or your fingers to work out any air bubbles. Use painter’s tape to hold the edge in place as it dries, and you are done.

Scuffs and scratches

Scuffs and scratches are inevitable, especially on high-use pieces like tables, chairs, and cabinets. If the scuff is very small, start by cleaning the area with a damp, soft cloth to remove any dirt or dust. If the scuff is superficial, some gentle cleaning might be all it takes to restore the surface. If the scratch has actually damaged the wallpaper, it’s time to get your wallpaper repair kit!
Reach for the leftover wallpaper from your project, cut a small piece that matches the pattern in the damaged area exactly, then use a small brush or your finger to apply wallpaper adhesive to the back of the patch. Now carefully position the patch over the scratch, aligning the pattern for a seamless look. Smooth it down gently to remove any air bubbles or creases. For more information on how to fix damaged wallpaper you can also read our blog article “How to repair damaged wallpaper on the wall”.

Bubbling

Air bubbles on wallpapered furniture can appear due to various factors such as trapped air during the initial application, fluctuations in humidity, or inadequate adhesion due to a weak adhesive leading to poor bonding. If the bubble is small, use a fine needle or pin to puncture the centre of the bubble. Make the hole as small as possible to minimise visible marks, then gently press on the bubble with a soft cloth or wallpaper smoother, starting at the edges and working inward toward the puncture to push out the trapped air through the hole. For larger bubbles, use a cutter knife to carefully lift the affected section of the wallpaper without tearing it, then apply a thin, even layer of wallpaper adhesive beneath the lifted area. Move into place and wipe away any excess adhesive with a damp cloth before it dries to avoid a shiny or discoloured finish. For more info on this topic read our instructions “What can I do to prevent bubbles and wrinkles?”.

Faded areas

While preventing fading entirely may not always be possible, you can try to minimise the impact of sunlight and restore some of the original charm to faded pieces by using furniture wax. Choose a high-quality product with a slight tint that matches or complements the wallpaper’s colour palette, then apply it using a soft cloth, working in small circular motions to return depth and richness to the pattern. Test the product on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t alter the wallpaper’s texture or colour unfavourably.

Conclusions

Proper care and maintenance are what separates a short-lived project from a piece of wallpapered furniture you can treasure for many years to come. Don’t consider the above advice as chores, but as practical, manageable steps that will ensure your wallpapered furniture continues to shine and bring joy. So, here’s to a project well done - and well cared for!