In rental property management, there are situations where wallpaper (cross) cleaning becomes necessary after a tenant moves out or during vacancy periods. While it tends to be overlooked compared to floor and fixture cleaning, the condition of the wallpaper significantly affects the overall impression of a room and its occupancy rate.
This article covers everything from why wallpaper cleaning is necessary, to stain removal by type, a comparison with replacement, pricing ranges, and tips for keeping costs down.
Why Is Wallpaper Cleaning Necessary?
Wallpaper cleaning is an essential maintenance task that directly contributes to mold prevention, improved occupancy rates, and the upkeep of fixtures.
Preventing Mold Growth
Walls accumulate airborne dust, which can lead to mold if left unaddressed. Mold not only poses health risks but can also accelerate the deterioration of the building, making regular cleaning essential.
Boosting Occupancy Rates
When wallpaper looks dull from dust and grime, the entire room appears darker and leaves a poor impression during viewings. Brightening the room's appearance through cleaning directly translates to shorter vacancy periods.
Repairing Peeling and Damage at the Same Time
When you hire a professional, they can often handle minor peeling and damage repairs in addition to the cleaning itself. This may be possible at a lower cost than full replacement.
Knowing When Replacement Is Needed
The cleaning process allows you to assess the condition of the wallpaper and determine whether replacement is necessary. If sun-fading or cigarette odors remain after cleaning, it may be time to consider replacement.
How Do You Remove Stains from Wallpaper?
By choosing the right detergent and method for each type of stain, you can effectively clean wallpaper on your own.
Fingerprints and Smudges
Use a neutral kitchen detergent. Apply a few drops to a damp cloth wrung out firmly, and wipe from top to bottom. Follow up with a damp wipe and then a dry wipe to ensure no moisture or detergent residue remains.
Cigarette Tar
A spray solution of baking soda or sesquicarbonate of soda dissolved in water is effective. Since tar is an acidic stain, the alkaline properties of baking soda or sesquicarbonate of soda help break it down. These also have deodorizing effects, making them useful for reducing cigarette odor. Dust off any loose particles first, then spray and gently scrub from top to bottom with a sponge.
Mold
For minor mold, a combination of citric acid spray and baking soda paste is recommended. Apply a paper towel to the affected area, spray with citric acid spray, and leave for 5 minutes. Then work in a baking soda paste with a toothbrush, cover with plastic wrap, and leave for 2 to 3 hours. After wiping with a damp cloth and drying, spray with rubbing alcohol and allow to dry completely.
Graffiti
Apply nail polish remover or cleansing oil to a cloth and gently rub. Since these can be strong, test on an inconspicuous area first to check for color fading. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can spread the stain.
How Can You Keep Wallpaper from Getting Dirty?
Everyday preventive measures can reduce how often wallpaper needs cleaning.
Ventilate Regularly
Opening two or more windows on opposite sides of a room promotes airflow and helps prevent dust from settling on walls.
Leave Space Between Furniture, Appliances, and Walls
When items are pressed directly against walls, static electricity causes dust to accumulate more easily. Poor airflow can also lead to condensation and mold, so make sure to leave a gap.
Choose Wallpaper That Hides Dirt
Colors such as beige or ivory make sun-fading less noticeable. Wallpaper with a protective film on the surface can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Should You Choose Cleaning or Replacement?
Weigh the balance between cost and results when making your decision.
Choose Cleaning to Keep Costs Down
For a 6-tatami room (approximately 45 square meters), replacement costs between ¥45,000 and ¥72,000, while cleaning typically runs ¥21,000 to ¥36,000.
Choose Replacement for Severe Damage or Staining
If damage, peeling, or staining is severe, cleaning alone will not be sufficient. Opt for replacement to restore the room's appearance.
What Is the Process for Professional Wallpaper Cleaning?
When hiring a professional service, the process generally proceeds as follows.
- Contact the cleaning company and schedule an appointment
- Inspect the wallpaper condition and remove dust
- Apply protective coverings and clean using detergents suited to the type of stain
- Brush-clean heavily soiled areas
- Perform any necessary repair work
- Final inspection and completion
What Are the Standard Rates for Wallpaper Cleaning?
The standard rate for wallpaper cleaning is approximately ¥480 to ¥800 per square meter. For a 6-tatami room (approximately 45 square meters), expect to pay around ¥21,600 to ¥36,000.
If you add wallpaper coating (stain and mold protection treatment), an additional charge of approximately ¥2,500 per square meter applies.
Tips for Keeping Costs Down
- Regularly dust walls with a duster to prevent dirt buildup
- Address minor scratches and peeling yourself using adhesive or repair wallpaper
- Obtain quotes from multiple companies to verify pricing is reasonable
However, be cautious of companies that quote significantly below market rates, as they may charge high fees for optional services or deliver substandard work.
Who Is Responsible for the Cost of Wallpaper Damage and Stains?
Responsibility for wallpaper damage and stains at move-out depends on the cause and may fall on the tenant or the landlord.
Cases Where the Tenant Is Responsible
Intentional damage, staining beyond normal use, dents from punching walls, children's graffiti, and pet damage in properties where pets are not permitted are the tenant's responsibility. Discoloration from cigarette tar is also borne by the tenant.
Cases Where the Landlord Is Responsible
Damage and staining from natural aging or normal use, sun-fading, and stains originating from behind the wallpaper are the landlord's responsibility. Small holes from thumbtacks and pins also fall within the scope of normal use.
In ambiguous cases, refer to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's "Guidelines for Restoring Rental Housing to Original Condition." The rental management regulatory guide is also worth reviewing for peace of mind.
How Should You Choose a Wallpaper Cleaning Company?
Look for the following when selecting a company.
Is the Pricing Fair?
Unusual wall shapes or severe staining may result in higher-than-average costs. Getting quotes from multiple companies for comparison is recommended.
Do They Carry Liability Insurance?
Confirm this in advance to protect against disputes if another area is accidentally damaged during the work.
Do They Use People- and Environmentally-Friendly Detergents?
For properties where a new tenant is moving in soon after, or for family-friendly or pet-friendly units, companies that use eco-friendly detergents are the safer choice.
Is the Fee Structure Transparent?
Travel costs and labor fees may be charged separately, so confirm that everything is itemized in the quote upfront.
What Other Work Is Done During a House Cleaning Beyond Wallpaper?
Post-move-out house cleaning covers many areas beyond just the wallpaper.
This typically includes floor cleaning and waxing, cleaning of wet areas such as the kitchen, toilet, and bathroom, high-pressure washing of the entryway, cleaning of windows, window frames, and screens, wiping down light fixtures and curtain rails, cleaning of the balcony, cleaning of the interior of air conditioning units, and pest control. Pest extermination may require a separate specialist in some cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should wallpaper cleaning be done?
Ideally, it should be done every time a tenant moves out. For long-term tenancies, consider cleaning once every three to five years. Performing simple dusting on a regular basis can help reduce costs when professional cleaning is eventually needed.
How long does wallpaper cleaning take?
It depends on the size of the room and the level of soiling, but a 1K or 1LDK apartment can typically be completed in two to four hours. Heavy tar staining or mold may require additional time.
Is wallpaper coating necessary?
It is not required, but it improves stain resistance and mold resistance, which can extend the life of the wallpaper. Evaluate the cost-effectiveness before deciding.
Is the full cost of restoring tar stains from smoking borne by the tenant?
Under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's guidelines, staining and odor from smoking are considered the tenant's responsibility. However, it is common practice to prorate the cost based on the wallpaper's depreciation (useful life of six years).
Are move-out cleaning costs deducted from the security deposit?
Yes, in most cases, post-move-out cleaning costs are deducted from the security deposit in accordance with special provisions in the rental agreement. Clarifying the terms of these provisions at the time of signing helps prevent disputes later on.
