When was the last time you gave your walls a thorough cleaning? While we often focus on mopping floors, it’s important not to neglect the walls.
We come into contact with walls daily, leaning against them and touching them, which means they can accumulate stains, marks, scuffs, and dust over time.
These issues can make your walls look dull and dirty, even if they were recently painted. To maintain that fresh and clean appearance, it’s essential to include wall cleaning in your regular household cleaning routine.
However, it’s important to note that different paint types and finishes require specific care to prevent paint removal. Before you start Cleaning Your Walls, take a moment to read our tips on how to effectively clean walls without damaging the paint.
Regularly cleaning your Painted Walls is an important aspect of maintaining a clean and fresh-looking home.
While we often focus on cleaning floors and other surfaces, walls can accumulate stains, marks, scuffs, and dust over time, making them appear dull and dirty. However, it’s crucial to consider the type of paint finishes on your walls to determine the appropriate cleaning method.
Here are step-by-step instructions on how to clean walls without removing paint, based on different paint finishes.
Clean Painted Walls
Cleaning Walls with Flat Paint.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or degreasers on flat-painted walls, as they are less durable.
- Dampen a sponge and wring it out almost completely.
- Gently wipe the walls with a damp sponge.
- Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the walls dry.
Cleaning Walls with Glossy or Semi-Gloss Paint:
Mix a drop of Dish Soap with warm water in a bowl.
Dampen a sponge in the soapy water mixture and wring it out almost completely. Gently wipe the walls with the sponge.
Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the walls dry.
Cleaning Walls with Latex Paint:
- Create a cleaning solution by mixing warm water and a non-abrasive all-purpose cleaner.
- Dip a clean sponge in the solution and wring it dry.
- Gently rub the walls, paying special attention to frequently touched areas.
- Rinse the walls with a second sponge and clear water, avoiding electrical connections.
- Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the walls dry.
Cleaning Walls with Oil-Based Paint:
Stir 1 tsp of liquid dish soap into a quart of warm water.
Add 1/4 tsp of white vinegar to the solution and let it sit on the stain for 10 minutes. Wring a sponge or cloth until slightly damp and gently wipe the walls.
Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the walls dry.
Remove stains from painted walls
To remove stains from painted walls, act promptly and follow these steps:
Mix baking soda with warm water to create a paste.
Gently work the paste into the wall stain. Wipe away any residue with a clean, damp cloth.
Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the walls dry.
For tough wall stains, you can make an all-purpose cleaner:
Stir 1 tsp of liquid dish detergent into a quart of warm water.
Add 1/4 tsp of white vinegar to the solution and let it sit on the stain for 10 minutes. Blot the stain using a white lint-free rag or microfiber cloth.
Prevent dirty walls
To prevent dirty walls:
Vacuum-painted walls with a soft brush attachment.
Wipe down walls with a cloth-covered broom or mop, or use an electrostatic dusting wipe. Quickly clean fingerprints and marks as soon as they appear.
Avoid using excessive amounts of water when cleaning painted walls to prevent drips. By following these cleaning tips and practicing preventive maintenance, you can keep your painted walls looking fresh and free from dust and stains.
*The information is for reference only.