Wondering how to clean walls effectively? Over time, they can accumulate scuffs, marks, and even doodles from kids.
Fortunately, with some handy cleaning methods, you can restore their original look, so knowing how to repaint becomes necessary only when you wish to change colors.
No matter the source of the marks, this guide shares essential tips on cleaning walls along with expert advice.
Cleaning Techniques for Walls
Even high-quality paint can show signs of wear. Activities like cleaning a fireplace can expose unclean walls, while splatters from cooking or bathroom use, along with scuffs from furniture and children's artwork, underline the need to know how to clean walls and maintain your home's pristine look.
1. Preparing for Wall Cleaning
Before tackling wall cleaning, identify the type of paint. According to experts, semi-gloss and glossy enamel paints respond well to cleaning, notes a local painting professional.
Conversely, flat, satin, and eggshell latex paints may not hold up as well. Be cautious with abrasive materials to avoid fading or removal of paint. If you suspect your paint is difficult to clean, consider hiring a pro or applying a new coat instead.
Unsure about your wall's paint type? Test a small area first with water on a cellulose sponge. If color smudges or fades, stop immediately. If it stays intact, proceed with the wet sponge technique.
2. Removing Marks and Fingerprints
Dirty marks and fingerprints on walls are relatively easy to clean. Start by dusting the wall gently to prevent spreading dirt. A microfiber cloth works well and can be attached to a mop for easy access.
Next, use warm soapy water. A mild detergent and soft cloth can efficiently wipe away dirty marks, advises a professional painter.
Be careful not to soak the wall, as excess moisture can lead to water marks. Leave the soapy mixture on for about five minutes before rinsing with clean water.
3. Tackling Grease Stains
For grease stains, dish soap combined with warm water can effectively clean greasy spots. Rinse afterward with clean water.
You can also use a common pantry item: vinegar. Mix one cup of white vinegar with warm water in a bucket and apply with a soft sponge, avoiding excess moisture, and rinse thoroughly.
4. Cleaning Childrens' Scribbles
If kids have doodled on the walls, a melamine sponge can be your best friend. These sponges are great for lifting crayon and pencil marks off surfaces.
Many cleaning professionals recommend these sponges for tackling children's artwork. Simply wet the sponge and scrub the mark until it disappears.
Keep in mind the paint type on your walls. While these sponges are effective on glossy paints, they may remove some paint on water-based finishes, so use them gently.
5. Prepping Walls for Painting
Before applying a fresh coat of paint, it's crucial to clean your walls. Use the same methods as for general cleaning, suggests a property maintenance expert.
Begin by wiping down the surface with a dry cloth or brush to eliminate cobwebs and loose dirt. Then, prepare your cleaning solution using dish soap and salt mixed with warm water.
Avoid soaking your cloth or sponge, as this could create water stains. Let the cleaning solution sit for about ten minutes before rinsing with clean water.
What's the Easiest Way to Clean Walls?
Water mixed with dish soap is the simplest solution for wall stains, according to design experts.
If the stain is particularly stubborn, create a paste with three parts water and one part baking soda, apply to the stain, rinse with a fine cloth soaked in clean water, and dry with a separate cloth. Avoid this method on wallpaper; consult a professional for those surfaces.
How to Clean Walls Without Damaging Paint?
To clean walls without harming the paint, avoid aggressive scrubbing. Gloss and semi-gloss paints can endure more effort, but flat, satin, and eggshell paints need special care.
If you're painting in areas prone to marks, consider using scrubbable paint, which often includes stain-blocking properties, reducing future cleaning needs.
