How to Care for Prints and Paintings at Home

Quick answer

To care for prints and paintings at home, frame them with UV-protective glazing, hang them away from direct sunlight and damp walls, dust gently with a dry microfiber cloth, and store unframed pieces flat in acid-free sleeves. Control humidity between 40–50% and avoid extreme temperatures. Handle all art by the edges with clean, dry hands.

Why proper care matters

Prints and paintings are vulnerable to light, humidity, heat, and physical contact. UV light fades inks and yellows paper; dampness causes mold and buckling; dry heat makes paper brittle. Even a small framed print like the This Is Us Print, a risograph made with soy-oil ink, can smudge or develop printer marks over time if exposed to moisture or rough handling. Consistent, gentle care preserves colors and structure for years.

Framing art prints at home

Choose a frame with UV-filtering glass or acrylic and an acid-free mat or backing. Avoid mounting prints directly against glass; use a mat or spacers to create an air gap. For unframed prints, store them flat in acid-free sleeves or between two sheets of acid-free board. Do not trim or dry-mount a print unless you accept permanent alteration.

Hanging prints without damage

Hang art on interior walls away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and air vents. Use two hooks or a French cleat for stability. For heavy pieces, anchor into studs. Keep art off damp exterior walls and out of bathrooms. If you rent, use removable adhesive strips rated for the weight, and follow the cure time before hanging.

Protecting paintings from sunlight

Rotate paintings seasonally or move them to a wall that receives only indirect light. Avoid placing them opposite windows where glare hits daily. UV-protective glazing helps, but no glass blocks all light; the safest approach is to limit direct sun exposure. For works on paper, consider scanning or photographing them for a digital backup.

Cleaning framed prints

Dust the frame and glass with a dry microfiber cloth. For glass, spray a small amount of water or glass cleaner onto the cloth, never directly on the art, and wipe gently. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners near the frame edge. For unframed prints, use a soft brush or dry cloth; never use water or solvents on paper or risograph inks.

Art print storage tips

Store prints flat, not rolled, in a cool, dry place. Use acid-free folders or boxes and interleave with acid-free tissue. Keep them away from basements, attics, and garages where humidity and temperature fluctuate. If you must roll a print for shipping, use a wide tube and roll with the image facing outward, then unroll promptly on arrival.

Preventing art print humidity damage

Maintain indoor humidity between 40–50% with a dehumidifier or humidifier as needed. Avoid hanging art on cold exterior walls where condensation can form behind the frame. In damp climates, use silica gel packets in storage boxes and check them monthly. If you notice waviness or foxing (brown spots), isolate the piece and consult a conservator.

Step-by-step art care routine

1. Assess your space: Check walls for direct sunlight, dampness, and heat sources. Choose a spot with stable temperature and indirect light. Common mistake: hanging art on a damp exterior wall or above a radiator.
2. Frame with protection: Use UV-filtering glass and acid-free materials. Ensure the art does not touch the glass. Checkpoint: frame backing should be sealed to keep out dust and insects.
3. Hang securely: Use appropriate hardware for the weight and wall type. Level and secure the piece. Common mistake: using one nail for a heavy frame, causing it to tilt and fall.
4. Dust regularly: Gently dust frames and glass with a dry microfiber cloth every few weeks. Avoid spraying cleaner directly on the art or glass; spray on the cloth.
5. Store extras properly: Keep unframed prints flat in acid-free sleeves in a cool, dry place. Checkpoint: never store art in a basement or attic where humidity spikes.
6. Monitor humidity: Keep indoor humidity between 40–50% and watch for signs of mold or warping. If you see foxing or waviness, isolate the piece and consult a professional conservator.

Product facts

• This Is Us Print: This Is Us Print is an 11" x 14" risograph printed on paper. Each risograph print is slightly different due to soy-oil ink, and smudging or printer marks are possible. Handle with care and avoid moisture; the ink can smudge, so frame behind glass and dust gently.