Most of us don’t think about cleaning our walls until they start to look dull or stained. When we frequently clean our floors, furniture, and windows, walls collect dust, fingerprints, and scuff marks over time. Freshly painted walls can make a home look new and bright, but you don’t always need a new coat of paint to get that clean look.
The good news is that cleaning walls doesn’t have to be a big or tedious job. With the right tools and simple steps, you can make them look fresh again without much effort. Whether your walls are painted, wallpapered, or textured, there’s an easy way to make them shine again.
Start by dusting them using a soft cloth or duster. Pay attention to corners and edges where cobwebs often gather. Once the dust is removed, use a mild cleaning mixture of warm water and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the paint or leave marks. Always test a small area to make sure the color stays the same.
What are The Types of Wall Paint?
There are mainly two types of paint used for interior walls, namely:
- Oil-based paint: This type is suitable for areas with higher humidity as it lasts longer and holds up better than water-based paint.
- Latex or water-based paint: It does not crack or chip easily but requires extra care when removing stains. Choosing the right shades can make an old house look fresh and lively.
What are The Different Types of Paint Finishes?
Knowing the right finish can help you effectively handle dirt and stains on painted walls. Here are some popular types:
- Matte finish: This flat finish gives a smooth look but can be damaged by rough cleaning tools or strong cleaners.
- Eggshell or satin: It softly reflects light on the wall and requires very little effort to keep it clean.
- Semi-gloss: This has a higher sheen and is great for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim.
- High-gloss: This is the hardest and shiniest finish, best for furniture, doors, and cabinets. You can easily clean it using a mild soap or degreaser.
Step-by-Step: The Best Way to Clean Walls
1. Start with a dust-free surface
Before you start cleaning, be sure to wipe away any loose dust or cobwebs.
- Use a duster or microfiber cloth: A microfiber mop with a long handle is perfect for cleaning corners and high spots.
- Vacuum with a brush attachment: Gently run the vacuum over the walls to pick up dust without leaving streaks.
Doing this first will prevent the dust from spreading or staining.
2. Test a Small area First
Wall finishes react differently to cleaning fluids, so it’s wise to test before cleaning the entire wall.
Dampen a cloth or sponge with your cleaner and wipe a small hidden patch.
Let it dry and check for any damage or discoloration before moving on.
The right cleaning mixture makes a big difference. Here are some safe options:
- Warm water and dish soap: Gentle enough for most painted surfaces.
- Vinegar and water: Great for cutting through grease and removing odors.
- Commercial wall cleaner: Always read the label to make sure it’s suitable for your wall type.
3. Use the right tools
Good tools help you clean faster and more safely.
- Soft sponge or microfiber cloth: Gentle on paint and great for lifting dirt.
- Bucket: Keep one for your soap mixture and the other for rinsing with clean water.
- Wall mop: A flat mop with a microfiber pad helps cover larger walls easily.
4. Clean from top to bottom
Work your way from the top of the wall to the bottom to prevent streaks or drips.
Use small circular motions to lift dirt without spreading it.
Rinse your cloth or sponge frequently in clean water so you don’t move dirt around.
Take extra care with frequently touched areas, such as light switches or door frames.
5. Handle stains carefully
For stubborn marks or greasy stains, use the appropriate method for each type of stain.
- A melamine sponge (magic eraser eraser) removes scratches without damaging the paint.
- A vinegar or grease-cutting cleaner works best in kitchen areas.
- A baking soda paste can remove stubborn marks, but test it on a small area first.
6. Rinse and dry
After cleaning, rinse and dry your walls to prevent streaks or water spots.
Wipe the walls with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaner.
Finish by drying with a soft microfiber towel or let the walls air dry naturally.
If you’re not sure which cleaner is right for your walls, here’s a quick guide:
- Painted walls: Use mild soap and water; skip harsh products.
- Textured walls: Use a soft brush to gently reach into crevices.
- Wallpaper: Make sure it’s washable before cleaning; use a damp sponge to gently scrub.
- Tile walls: A vinegar solution works great for removing soap scum or grime.
Benefits of Professional Wall Washing Services
- Save time: Hiring professionals helps you save both time and energy, especially when dealing with large wall spaces.
- Expertise: Skilled cleaners understand proper cleaning methods and use the right products that match your wall type and paint surface.
- Prevent damage: Cleaning walls without the proper knowledge can cause damage. Professional cleaners work carefully to protect your walls.
- Long-term results: Regular wall cleaning by experts keeps your walls clean and fresh for a long time.
Stress-free Painting For Your Home
Painting can be tricky if you don’t know the right tricks. That’s why our team of expert painters in Toorak are here to help. We specialize in commercial painting, house painting and interior painting. From choosing the right colors to completing the job perfectly, our team makes it easy. You can relax while we do all the hard work, leaving your home looking fresh and stylish. With Quest Paintings, painting is easy, fast and beautiful.
Read More: How to Paint Your Gutters: Process & Cost
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How often should I clean my walls?
It’s a good idea to clean your walls every 6 to 12 months. The timing can vary depending on your home. If you have young children, pets, or live in a place where dust accumulates quickly, you may need to clean more often to prevent stains and dirt from building up.
Q2. Can I use vinegar to clean my walls?
Yes, vinegar diluted with water works well to remove marks like mildew or water stains. It’s gentle and effective. However, always test a small hidden spot first to make sure it won’t damage your paint.
Q3. How do I remove grease stains from walls?
You can mix baking soda with water to clean grease stains. Gently rub the mixture with a soft sponge and rinse it with clean water. If the stain is stubborn, try a cleaner made for greasy areas.
Q4. What is the best way to clean textured walls?
For textured walls, first dust them with a dry cloth or duster. Then, gently wipe them down using a cloth slightly dampened with a mild cleaner. Avoid soaking the wall, as too much water can damage its texture.
Q5. Can I clean painted walls with bleach?
Although bleach cleans well, it is not safe for painted walls. It can fade the color or damage the paint. Instead, use a mild cleaner made for painted surfaces.
