Is Canvas Waterproof? Discover the Facts and Myths

Is canvas waterproof? Find out in our handy guide. Learn about the advantages of canvas made from polyester, and how to protect your wall art from water damage.

If you’re thinking of buying some new canvas prints, and considering displaying them in the kitchen, the bathroom, or even outside, you might be wondering, "Is canvas waterproof?" Luckily we discuss exactly that question in our latest article! Let's dive right in…

Is Canvas Waterproof? Key Takeaway

Canvas prints made from specialized polyester are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. To maintain the print in its original quality, avoid direct exposure to water. Note that canvas made from polyester shows better resilience against moisture than its cotton or linen counterparts, so polyester canvas prints will be the more durable choice.

The canvas prints sold here at CANVASDISCOUNT are made using top-quality polyester. So unless you're thinking of using your canvas as an umbrella or displaying it inside your fish tank, you shouldn’t need to worry too much about moisture damage to your canvas!

Having said that, some basic precautions are advised. To learn more about the waterproof qualities of canvas and how to preserve your canvas prints, read on.

Types of Canvas

Canvas can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, linen, and polyester. Our canvas prints are made from a particular type of polyester canvas that was specifically developed for photo printing.

Unlike traditional canvas materials, this man-made option has unique features that enhance its waterproof properties. Polyester offers good resistance to moisture, and dries quickly if it does get wet.

A high-quality polyester canvas print will retain its vibrancy for years to come – although this relies on the right type of ink being used too.

Here at CANVASDISCOUNT, for example, we use authentic HP latex inks which offer fantastic resistance to fading (they’re totally solvent-free too) .

What Happens if Canvas Material Gets Wet?

If your polyester canvas does get splashed, the first thing you'll notice is that it won't soak up liquid the way highly absorbent fabrics like cotton do.

However, polyester canvas isn’t waterproof, so it’s best to remove any liquid promptly. Simply pat your print dry with a clean towel. This way you won’t have to worry about the potential for water damage.

How to Clean Canvas Prints Safely

As canvas prints aren’t completely waterproof, you’ll need to think about the potential for moisture damage when cleaning your prints too.

Rest assured that a wipe-down with a slightly damp cloth shouldn’t cause any problems. Just avoid soaking the canvas or using harsh chemicals, and your wall art should stay as vibrant as the day you hung it up.

Is Canvas Art Suitable for Bathrooms?

While canvas art adds a touch of sophistication to any room, including bathrooms, the high humidity levels in bathrooms can affect the canvas fabric in the long term. However, there are measures you can take to protect your art. Leaving a gap between the back of the canvas and the wall can help, as can maintaining good ventilation.

Alternatively, consider moisture-resistant wall art features like metal or acrylic prints.

If you're interested in bathroom canvas art, be sure to check out our article dedicated to this topic!

Thinking of Displaying Canvas Art Outdoors?

While canvas art is a fantastic choice for indoor spaces, it's not the best fit for outdoor settings. Even if you apply protective coatings, the canvas can still become brittle and may crack over time because of sun, rain, and humidity.

Here at CANVASDISCOUNT we sell alternatives like metal or acrylic prints which can withstand the elements and keep looking great. So we recommend choosing these print formats for display out of doors.

Keep Your Canvas Prints Safe from Water Damage

ant to protect your canvas prints from humidity without resorting to lamination? We've got you covered! Here's how you can keep your wall art looking fresh and vibrant, even in less-than-ideal conditions:

Choose the Right Material: Opt for a polyester canvas crafted from tightly woven fabric for maximum durability. (Any canvas print from CANVASDISCOUNT will qualify!)

Ink Makes a Difference: Go for inks that are both water-resistant and free from harmful solvents.

Frame It Up: Adding a frame not only enhances your canvas but also provides an extra layer of protection. For instance, at CANVASDISCOUNT, you can get your canvas prints set in premium floating frames.

Pick the Perfect Spot: Steer clear of moisture-heavy areas like bathrooms and kitchens. If you can't avoid these spaces, be prepared to compromise a bit on the canvas's longevity.

Clean Wisely: Ensure that any cloth used for cleaning is no more than slightly damp.

Last Word

Canvas art makes a striking centerpiece of your home or office decor. While it's true that the canvas fabric can be vulnerable to water damage, if you take the right precautions you’ll be able to enjoy your canvas art for years to come.

Choose a product that's crafted with a tightly woven polyester fabric, printed using eco-friendly latex inks, and meticulously hand-stretched over a robust wooden frame. In other words, go for the top-quality canvas prints you'll find here at CANVASDISCOUNT!

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