Treat a framed photograph as several materials, not as an ordinary window. Keep the frame closed, move only manageable pieces with permission, and follow the frame and glazing instructions for exterior care. Keep liquids away from openings. Marks behind the glazing or damage to the photograph need a different specialist assessment.
That’s the whole rule. If you’d rather not be the one auditing bottles — we bring our own, eco-friendly by default, and we follow whatever note you leave on your booking. Message us and we’ll send a price for your place.
Check stability before moving the frame
Look for a loose stand, separating corner or backing that does not stay attached. If something is unstable, ask the owner to handle it and clean only the accessible furniture nearby. Record the display arrangement without photographing private images unless the owner agrees. Leave heavy wall-mounted pieces in place; cleaning a shelf does not require rehanging family photographs.
Keep the image out of the cleaning task
The Library of Congress cautions that even a soft brush can damage a photographic surface and advises avoiding contact with the image area. Do not open the frame to reach a speck or wipe a print with household products. Exterior glazing can also have special coatings, so consult its care instructions rather than assuming ordinary glass-cleaning advice applies.
Restore the display only after the furniture dries
Clean the supporting surface according to its finish and let it dry before returning frames. Verify that each stand sits fully on the shelf and does not overlap an edge. If you notice a print stuck to glazing, a damp backing or progressing damage, preserve the observation for its owner and seek conservation advice. Additional wiping is not a repair strategy.
The Library advises avoiding the image area and warns that even soft brushes can damage photographs. Library of Congress: Care of Photographs
Published scope and the limits of this guide
The published JAS scope says: “Surface-level upkeep for homes in generally good condition. Kitchen, baths, dust, beds, vacuum, and mop.” — Read the source service page
This covers accessible exteriors and furniture. It excludes opening frames, photographic conservation, glazing replacement, artwork treatment and elevated rehanging.
Related decisions before you schedule
Window guidance should not automatically be applied to photograph glazing. Ordinary window cleaning
Set the boundary before handling valuable display pieces. Specialty-item limits
Place reachable display-furniture care within the broader routine. Room sequence
Frequently asked questions
Should I remove the photograph first?
No. This routine concerns closed-frame exteriors and nearby furniture.
Can all transparent covers use glass cleaner?
No. Identify the glazing and any coating before selecting a method.
What if dust is inside the frame?
Leave opening and treatment decisions to the owner and, when needed, a framer or conservator.