Discover how to moisture-proof a picture frame for a bathroom, especially in the damp environment created during a bath or shower, with six simple steps using affordable products from Amazon. These include moisture-resistant frames, foam board, and frame tape.
Step #1: Pick The Right Artwork
Option #1: Metal Prints (Easiest Option & Waterproof)
If you lack time to weatherproof a photo frame, consider a metal print. Crafted from aluminum, these prints are instantly waterproof. They offer a modern aesthetic and thrive in humid bathrooms, especially during showers and baths.
Explore Society6 and Redbubble for choices. If you still wish to frame art or photos that resist moisture, read on!
Option #2: Art Prints
When selecting an art print, opt for one made with acid-free, archival materials to ensure it can withstand humidity. For top-quality options, I highly recommend checking out Redbubble and Society6.
If you’re decorating a steamy bathroom, go for more affordable prints that still maintain their high quality. This way, if anything happens, you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank when replacing them.
Remember: valuable or sentimental art should never be displayed in a bathroom!
Option #3: Photos
Don’t hang sentimental photos in your bathroom. Keep a digital copy or negatives to replace any damaged ones.
Get archival-quality photographic prints from Redbubble that can withstand humidity. Or try waterproof from Amazon for your own prints at home, resistant to water damage and fading.
Step #2: Picture Frame & Matting
Frames, glass, and plexiglass all help protect your pictures and prints from vapor. Not only will these things create a moisture barrier for your pictures or prints, but they will also make your prints look like expensive pieces of fine art!
For frames, stick to wood painted with a waterproof sealant, metal, or plastic because these are water-resistant. There are plenty of inexpensive, moisture-resistant frames on Amazon with glass and matting.
Why do you need matting? It prevents the photo or print to stick to the glass/plexiglass by creating a space between them.
If you want to skip step #2, you can find already framed and matted prints from both Society6 and Redbubble! But make sure to go to step #3. You’re almost done!
Step #3: Proper Backing
In the rear of frames, there’s a backing you remove to insert a photo or print. This backing is typically made of fiberboard, similar to thick cardboard.
Fiberboard suits most rooms but not moist environments. Replace it with foam board, like the Mat Board Center‘s pre-cut ones from Amazon. Foam boards prevent condensation from reaching your photo or art.
Step #4: Frame Tape
You can use frame tape from Amazon to seal gaps behind the frame for an airtight seal.
Check out the video below for a simple demonstration. You can even watch it without sound since instructions are unnecessary.
Step #5: Bumper Pads
Place a bumper pad (Amazon) at each corner of the picture frame’s back before wall-mounting it.
These pads will ensure a gap between the frame and the wall for adequate airflow.
This is crucial as a lack of airflow can lead to mold growth and frame damage.
Step #6: Getting Rid of Humidity
Ensure bathroom ventilation while bathing or showering. Consider a dehumidifier if you lack an exhaust fan, such as the ProBreeze Mini Dehumidifier available on Amazon.
So, go ahead and implement these steps to enjoy a bathroom adorned with meaningful art while keeping the memories alive for years to come!
Note: This article has been peer reviewed and held to the highest editorial standards.