Maintaining the beauty of your walls is just as important as choosing the right wallpaper design. For many homeowners, embossed wallpaper (also known as textured wallpaper, raised-pattern wallpaper, or 3D wallpaper) brings depth, elegance and architectural character to a space. But when it comes to cleaning it, things can get a little confusing. Can you scrub it? Does water damage the texture? Which products are safe for embossed vinyl wallpaper?

As one of the global leaders in wallpaper production, Adawall frequently receives questions from customers about how to safely clean embossed wallpaper without damaging the surface. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how to remove stains, what to avoid, and which cleaning techniques actually work. Our aim is to give you simple, realistic, tried-and-tested solutions for long-lasting results.

We also studied high-ranking websites such as The Spruce, Better Homes & Gardens, and Wallpaper Direct, and combined those tips with Adawall’s material expertise to create the most reliable cleaning guide for embossed wallpaper on the internet.

What Makes Embossed Wallpaper Different?

Embossed wallpaper is manufactured with raised patterns or textures that add dimension to a room. Adawall’s embossed collections are made from durable, washable materials that are designed to withstand everyday cleaning when done correctly.

However, textured wallpaper is more prone to trapping:

• Dust

• Fingerprints

• Grease

• Airborne particles

• Stains in deep grooves

This means your cleaning approach must be gentler compared to flat wallpaper.

Is Embossed Wallpaper Washable?

Most Adawall embossed wallpapers are washable and moisture-resistant. However, not all wallpapers on the market have the same durability. Some low-quality papers swell, peel, or discolor when exposed to liquid.

Before cleaning, always check:

• The wallpaper label

• Manufacturer recommendations

• Whether it’s “washable,” “super-washable,” or “scrubbable”

Adawall products come with clear washability instructions, making the process much safer.

Step-by-Step: How to Safely Clean Embossed Wallpaper

1. Start by Removing Dust

Dust settles easily inside raised patterns. Begin with a gentle method:

• Use a microfiber cloth

• A soft feather duster

• A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment

Move the cloth or brush downward, because upward movement pushes dust deeper into grooves.

Pro Tip:
Adawall recommends a vacuum with soft bristles for weekly gentle maintenance.

2. Wipe Using a Damp (Not Wet) Sponge

For everyday smudges:

• Mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap

• Dip a soft sponge into the mixture

• Squeeze out excess water

• Dab the stained area gently

Avoid scrubbing, as aggressive pressure may flatten the embossing.

What Not to Use:

• Abrasive scrubbers

• Bleach

• Vinegar mixtures on colored wallpaper

• Harsh chemical cleaners

Many popular DIY advice pages recommend vinegar or baking soda, but Adawall does not recommend these for colored embossed wallpaper since they can cause discoloration.

3. For Oil or Grease Stains

Kitchen areas or TV-wall sections often accumulate oily spots.

Try one of these safe methods:

Method A: Cornstarch

• Sprinkle a light layer over the grease

• Wait 10 minutes

• Wipe with a dry cloth

Method B: Mild Soap Solution

• Mix warm water with oil-cutting dish soap

• Dab gently

• Rinse with a plain damp cloth

This method is approved for Adawall vinyl-based embossed wallpapers.

4. Removing Pen, Marker, or Handprints

For tough stains:

Magic Eraser (Melamine Sponge)
These work extremely well on textured vinyl wallpaper but must be used lightly.

• Dampen the eraser

• Tap the stained area softly

• Do not apply pressure

Other websites often recommend rubbing, but this can remove the top coating. Adawall’s testing shows tapping motions are safer.

5. Deep Cleaning for Heavily Textured Areas

Once or twice a year, you can deep clean embossed wallpaper to restore its original look.

• Use lukewarm water

• Add a few drops of wallpaper-safe detergent

• Use a microfiber cloth

• Gently clean in circular motions

• Dry immediately with a soft towel

Never let water sit on the wallpaper, as it may seep into seams.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many cleaning tutorials online offer advice that can permanently ruin embossed wallpaper. Here’s what Adawall recommends avoiding:

• Scrubbing too hard

• Using bleach or strong alkaline cleaners

• Applying steam (may loosen adhesive)

• Leaving water on the seams

• Using metal or rough sponges

Following these rules ensures your wallpaper maintains its rich texture for years.

How Adawall Embossed Wallpaper Is Designed for Easy Cleaning

Unlike many budget brands, Adawall uses high-density, premium-quality vinyl coatings that resist:

• Stains

• Moisture

• Discoloration

• Surface abrasion

Our embossed designs are engineered with a protective top layer, meaning light cleaning will not harm the pattern. This is one reason why Adawall wallpapers are preferred by hotels, designers, and homeowners worldwide.

Where competing brands may fade or peel during cleaning, Adawall is tested under real-life conditions to ensure long-term durability.

When Should You Replace Your Wallpaper Instead of Cleaning?

Even the best wallpaper cannot last forever. Consider replacing it if you notice:

• Deep scratches

• Mold behind seams

• Large water stains

• Peeling edges

• Permanent discoloration

Adawall offers updated embossed collections that are more durable, more textured, and easier to clean than older models—making replacement an opportunity to upgrade your space.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning embossed wallpaper does not have to be stressful. With the right methods, you can keep your textured walls looking fresh for many years. Whether you're dealing with smudges, grease, or general dust, always choose gentle tools and mild cleaning agents. And remember: high-quality wallpapers like those from Adawall respond best to careful, consistent maintenance.

If you’re unsure about the cleaning method for your specific design, Adawall’s customer support team is always available to help.