Caring for paintings at home
Practical guidance on keeping your paintings stable, safe, and looking their best — without specialist equipment.
Temperature and humidity
Paintings are sensitive to their environment. Changes in temperature and humidity cause the materials they are made from (canvas, wood, paint, varnish) to expand and contract at different rates. Over time, this movement causes cracking, flaking, and structural damage.
The ideal environment for most paintings is similar to what is comfortable for people: a steady temperature between 16–20°C and a relative humidity of 45–55%. Stability matters more than hitting a precise figure, a painting that experiences gradual seasonal variation will fare better than one subjected to sudden daily swings.
Avoid exterior walls Especially in older buildings, exterior walls can be cold and damp. A painting hung directly against one risks condensation forming on the reverse.
Keep away from heat sources Radiators, fireplaces, and underfloor heating all create localised warm, dry zones that accelerate paint cracking and canvas brittleness.
Be cautious with air conditioning Units that cycle on and off repeatedly create fluctuations in both temperature and humidity, the exact conditions paintings find most damaging.
Central heating in winter Heated rooms in winter become very dry. A room humidifier nearby can help moderate conditions without directly affecting the painting.
Note: Paintings on wooden panels are especially sensitive to humidity changes, as wood expands and contracts significantly across the grain. If you have a panel painting showing signs of movement or splitting, consult a conservator before doing anything else.
Light and UV exposure
Light causes irreversible fading and discolouration over time, particularly to watercolours, works on paper, and certain pigments in oil paintings. The damage is cumulative and cannot be undone.
Avoid direct sunlight Even brief daily exposure to direct sunlight will fade a painting measurably over years. Hang paintings away from windows, or use UV-filtering glazing if the work is framed under glass.
Choose LED lighting Modern LED lights produce very little UV and far less heat than halogen or incandescent bulbs, making them the best choice for illuminating paintings. Avoid pointing spotlights at very close range.
Rotate display For particularly light-sensitive works — watercolours, pastels, works on paper — consider limiting display time and storing in the dark when not on show.
Surface cleaning — what is safe
The surface of a painting accumulates dust and grime over time. In most cases, the safest approach is to leave cleaning to a conservator, but light dusting can be done at home if done carefully.
Soft brushes only A clean, soft-bristled brush (such as a wide watercolour or make-up brush) can be used to very gently remove loose surface dust. Use light strokes and do not apply any pressure.
Never use cloths or sponges Any wiping motion risks moving grime across the surface, abrading the paint film, or loosening fragile areas. Even a soft cloth can cause damage.
Never use water or cleaning products Household cleaners, glass cleaner, and even water can dissolve varnish, lift paint, or cause irreversible damage. Nothing liquid should touch the painted surface.
Do not touch the paint surface Natural oils and moisture from fingertips leave residues that attract dirt and can cause long-term damage. Handle by the frame or edges only
If a painting looks significantly dirty, discoloured, or has a yellowed varnish, do not attempt to clean it yourself. Varnish removal and surface cleaning are specialist procedures. A conservator will assess what is appropriate and carry it out safely
Spotting early signs of damage
Catching deterioration early makes treatment simpler and less expensive. The following are signs that a painting may need professional attention. In all cases, do not wait, deterioration tends to accelerate once it begins.
Flaking or lifting paint Small raised edges or flakes of paint indicate that the paint film has lost adhesion. This is urgent, any vibration or movement can cause further losses. Do not touch the affected area.
Active cracking Fine networks of cracks (craquelure) are normal in old paintings. Concern arises when cracks appear suddenly, are widening, or have raised, cupped edges.
Yellowed or discoloured varnish Old natural resin varnishes yellow significantly over decades, giving paintings an orange or brown cast. This can be safely removed by a conservator and often dramatically improves appearance.
Mould or foxing White or dark spots, or a musty smell, indicate mould, usually caused by excessive humidity. Isolate the work and seek advice promptly.
Canvas distortion Bulging, slackness, or tears in the canvas support indicate structural problems that need professional assessment.
When in doubt, ask a conservator
These guides are intended to help you care for your paintings with confidence. They are not a substitute for professional assessment. If you notice anything concerning — flaking paint, discolouration, structural damage — please get in touch before attempting any intervention yourself.
