As winter rolls in, so does a shift in the environment of your home colder temperatures, increased humidity, and the inevitable heating that makes the air drier. These changes can have an impact on your wall art, from your beloved canvas prints to framed artwork. To keep your decor looking vibrant and well-preserved throughout the season, taking a little extra care is essential.
While the cozy vibes of winter are wonderful, the season does come with some unique challenges for your art. Here are some practical tips for keeping your wall art in top condition this winter:
1. Control the Humidity Levels
In winter, humidity levels can fluctuate, with dry indoor air from heating systems causing issues for your artwork. Low humidity can lead to your canvas prints warping or cracking, and can even fade the colors of your wall decor.
- How to manage it:
Try to keep your home’s humidity level consistent (around 40-60%). A humidifier can help maintain a more stable environment, while keeping your artwork away from direct heat sources like radiators and vents will prevent rapid drying. You could also consider using a humidity gauge to monitor the moisture in your home and adjust accordingly.
2. Keep Artwork Away from Direct Heat
Cold weather often means turning up the heat in your home, but this can pose a risk to your artwork. Heat can cause materials to shrink, warp, or fade over time, and canvas prints are especially vulnerable to the damage caused by extreme temperatures.
- How to protect your art:
When hanging artwork, avoid placing it directly over a heater, fireplace, or near any other heat sources. To keep your indoor environment more stable, use a temperature-controlled room or smart thermostat to regulate the heat. This helps prevent your artwork from being exposed to temperature extremes that can cause long-term damage.
3. Limit Exposure to Sunlight
Though the winter sun may be softer, sunlight still poses a risk to your artwork. Over time, even limited exposure can cause colors to fade, especially in canvas prints or framed works.
- How to protect your art:
If your artwork is positioned near windows, use curtains or blinds to block out direct sunlight. For more protection, consider switching out your frames for UV-protective glass or acrylic to shield your pieces from harmful UV rays. This is particularly important if you want to preserve the quality of your art for years to come.
4. Clean Your Wall Art Regularly
Dust, dirt, and fingerprints are more likely to accumulate in the winter, especially as people spend more time indoors. Regular cleaning is key to maintaining the appearance of your wall art and ensuring its longevity.
- How to clean it:
For canvas prints, gently dust them with a soft microfiber cloth. For framed pieces, a damp cloth (not wet) is ideal for wiping down the glass and frame. Make sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the artwork. If your art is particularly valuable, it might be worth consulting a professional for deep cleaning.
5. Check for Water Damage
Winter storms bring wet conditions snow, rain, and high humidity can all affect your home. Condensation from windows can also lead to water dripping onto your wall art. This moisture can cause mold or mildew, which can permanently damage your pieces.
- How to prevent damage:
Ensure that your artwork isn’t exposed to moisture by hanging it away from windows that might sweat. If water does come into contact with your art, immediately dry it with a clean towel. Dehumidifiers are a great investment for controlling moisture in areas prone to dampness.
6. Reposition Your Artwork for Winter
Winter light is different it’s softer and more subdued than the bright summer sun. This creates a perfect opportunity to reposition your wall art to make it fit the season’s mood. Placing artwork in areas that avoid direct light can also help prevent fading.
- How to adjust:
Consider moving your pieces to areas with more ambient lighting, or simply switch up the height and angle of your artwork to work with the winter light. This not only enhances the aesthetic of your home but also ensures that your art stays safe from excess light exposure.
While winter brings a serene and cozy atmosphere, it can also challenge the preservation of your wall art. By taking a few simple precautions managing humidity, avoiding heat sources, limiting sun exposure, cleaning regularly, and checking for water damage you can ensure that your canvas prints and framed pieces remain as vibrant and beautiful as the day you first hung them. A little winter care will go a long way in keeping your artwork looking fresh and adding warmth to your home all season long.