How to Care for Your Art Without Destroying It (Accidentally or Otherwise)

Because masterpieces deserve better than being left in the attic next to Grandma’s old lamp

you’ve got a piece of art you love. Maybe it’s a painting you splurged on at a gallery, a priceless family heirloom, or even something you made yourself (because let’s face it, you’re a creative genius). Now, the question is: how do you take care of it so it doesn’t end up looking like a prop from a horror movie?

Whether you’re an artist, a collector, or just someone who accidentally inherited a sculpture and doesn’t know what to do with it, keeping art in good shape is crucial. Luckily, I’m here to walk you through the dos and don’ts of art care, without making you feel like you need a degree in museum conservation.

Step 1: Stop Putting Art in the Worst Places

Let’s start with the biggest mistake people make: putting art in dumb places. Yes, I said it. Art has feelings (probably), and if it could talk, it would beg you to stop hanging it above your stove.

🚫 Places NOT to put art:

• Above radiators or fireplaces – Heat can warp and damage materials faster than you can say, "Oops."

• In direct sunlight – Unless you want your art to fade into a sad, washed-out version of itself.

• Bathrooms – Humidity is the enemy of paper, canvas, and basically everything except towels.

• Basements or attics – Too damp, too dry, too hot, too cold—art isn’t a fan of extreme weather shifts.

✅ Better places for art:

• A room with stable temperature and humidity (your living room is probably a good bet).

• A wall with minimal direct light exposure (not right in front of a window).

• Somewhere you can actually appreciate it instead of just storing it away in fear of ruining it.

Step 2: Keep It Clean (But Not Too Clean)

Art is delicate. You don’t want to start scrubbing a painting like it’s your kitchen counter.

✅ How to clean different types of art:

🎨 Paintings (Canvas, Oil, Acrylic)

• DO dust it lightly with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.

• DON’T use water, sprays, or cleaning products. You wouldn’t clean your face with dish soap, right? (At least, I hope you wouldn’t.)

• DO consider professional cleaning if it's got visible dirt buildup.

📜 Drawings, Prints, and Paper Art

• DO keep them framed under glass (UV-protective glass if possible).

• DON’T touch them with your bare hands (oils from your skin = slow destruction).

• DO store them flat if unframed, preferably in acid-free paper.

🗿 Sculptures and Mixed Media

• DO dust regularly with a soft cloth or brush.

• DON’T use water unless you’re 100% sure it’s safe for the material.

• DO be extra careful with anything fragile—one bad move and it becomes “abstract art.”

Step 3: Frame It Like You Mean It

A good frame is like a good relationship: it protects, supports, and makes everything look better.

If your art is just chilling in an old plastic frame from a bargain store, maybe it’s time to upgrade.

🔲 What to look for in a frame:

• UV-protective glass – Keeps colors vibrant and prevents fading.

• Acid-free matting – Regular matting can slowly damage paper-based art.

• Proper backing – Helps protect against dust, moisture, and pests (yes, pests. More on that nightmare in a second).

🔥 Bonus tip: If you have a really valuable or fragile piece, consider museum-quality framing. It’s an investment, but so is your art.

Step 4: Keep Art Safe from the Villains (Pests, Mold, and You)

Your biggest enemy when it comes to art care? Tiny, destructive things. This includes:

🦠 Mold – Loves moisture and will destroy paper, canvas, and anything organic.🐜 Pests – Silverfish, moths, and other little critters love eating paper and fabric-based artwork.🖐️ Human Error – The #1 reason art gets ruined is people touching it too much or handling it poorly.

✅ How to prevent these disasters:

• Keep humidity levels between 40-60% to prevent mold growth.

• Store art properly in acid-free boxes or frames to keep pests out.

• Wear gloves if handling delicate art—or at least wash your hands first.

Step 5: Know When to Call a Pro

Look, sometimes DIY just isn’t the move. If you have a piece of art that’s damaged, super old, or valuable, it might be time to bring in the professionals.

🔎 Signs your art needs professional care:

• Discoloration or fading

• Visible mold or water damage

• Flaking or peeling paint

• Tears in paper or canvas

👩‍🎨 Where to find help:

• Local art conservators – Check with museums or galleries for recommendations.

• Professional framers – They can guide you on the best ways to protect your piece.

Step 6: Actually Enjoy Your Art

After going through all this effort, don’t forget the whole point of owning art: to appreciate it!

🖼️ Rotate pieces every now and then – Give different artworks their time to shine.🎨 Create a space where you can see and enjoy them daily – Not just tucked away in a dark corner.📸 Document your collection – If something happens, it’s good to have photos for reference (and insurance, if it’s valuable).

Taking care of art isn’t just about preserving its value—it’s about respecting creativity and craftsmanship. Whether you own a priceless painting or just something that sparks joy, a little care goes a long way in keeping it beautiful for years to come.

So, what’s the biggest mistake you’ve made when it comes to caring for art? Ever had a disaster moment (like knocking over a sculpture or accidentally ruining a painting)? Share your stories in the comments—I promise not to judge… too much. 😉