Cleaning painted walls can seem like a tricky task. You want to remove dirt, dust, and stains, but you don’t want to risk damaging the paint. Different types of paint (matte, satin, semi-gloss) require different approaches to keep them looking fresh without causing wear. Here’s everything you need to know to safely clean painted walls, from the best cleaners to expert techniques.
What is the best thing to clean painted walls with?
The ideal cleaning solution for painted walls depends on the type of paint finish. Generally, a mild cleaning solution, like a mix of warm water and a few drops of dish soap, is gentle enough for most painted surfaces. Here are some common wall-cleaning solutions and their pros and cons:
Mild dish soap (e.g., Dawn) and water
Pros: Effective for most stains and gentle on paint.
Cons: Requires rinsing to avoid a soapy residue, especially on flat finishes.
White vinegar and water (1:1 ratio)
Pros: Eco-friendly, deodorizes, and disinfects naturally. Great for mildew spots in kitchens and bathrooms.
Cons: The strong smell can linger, and it may be too harsh for high-gloss or delicate finishes.
Baking soda paste (for spot cleaning only)
Pros: Excellent for tough stains; mildly abrasive without harsh chemicals.
Cons: Abrasive on delicate finishes like matte and can damage the paint with frequent use.
Store-bought wall cleaners (formulated for painted surfaces)
Pros: Convenient and often labeled for specific finishes.
Cons: Can be expensive, and some may contain strong chemicals that are too harsh for frequent use.
How to clean painted walls without removing paint
When cleaning walls, the technique is just as important as the cleaning solution. Here are a few steps to safely clean painted walls without causing paint damage:
Dust first
Use a dry microfiber cloth, duster, or vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove dust from walls before you start cleaning. This helps prevent streaking and scratches from dust particles.
Prepare a gentle cleaning solution
For general cleaning, a few drops of mild dish soap like Dawn in a bucket of warm water is often all you need. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and wring it out well to avoid excess water on the walls.
Start from the bottom and work up
To avoid streaks, start at the bottom of the wall and work your way up in small sections. Use light pressure and avoid scrubbing hard, especially on matte or flat finishes.
Rinse and dry as you go
After wiping with the soapy solution, go over each section with a cloth dampened in clean water to remove any residue. Follow up with a dry towel to prevent water spots.
Is Dawn dish soap good for cleaning walls?
Yes, Dawn dish soap is effective for most painted walls, especially for removing grease or stains. Its mild formula makes it safe for many paint types. However, you’ll want to rinse with plain water afterward to avoid leaving a soapy film on the wall, which can dull the finish over time. Just a few drops of Dawn in a gallon of water is typically enough for regular cleaning.
How do professional painters clean walls?
Professional painters often recommend cleaning walls with a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner to preserve the paint’s finish and color. They also advise using tools like soft microfiber cloths or sponges rather than abrasive scrubbers, which can remove paint, especially from low-sheen finishes. Here’s how pros typically approach cleaning different finishes:
Matte and flat paint
Matte and flat finishes are beautiful but prone to staining and are not as durable for scrubbing. Professional cleaners use a mild soap solution (Dawn and water), applied with a soft cloth, avoiding abrasive cleaners to prevent scuffing.
Eggshell and satin paint
These finishes are a bit more durable, allowing for slightly more cleaning pressure. Vinegar diluted in water can help lift grime in high-traffic areas, like hallways or kids’ rooms. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to prevent streaks.
Semi-gloss and gloss paint
Glossy paints are typically used in kitchens, bathrooms, and trim, where extra durability is needed. These surfaces can withstand mild cleaners, and a gentle vinegar solution or dish soap mix works well. Professionals often recommend gloss paints for easy cleaning since their slick surface resists stains and scrubbing doesn’t easily damage them.
Roundup: Best wall cleaners by paint type
- Matte or flat: Mild dish soap (Dawn) and water; avoid scrubbing.
- Eggshell or satin: Diluted vinegar solution or mild dish soap; rinse to prevent streaks.
- Semi-gloss or gloss: Dish soap or vinegar solution; can handle light scrubbing.
Should you wash your walls before painting?
Yes, washing your walls before painting is generally recommended as part of your preparations for interior painting. Dirt, dust, grease, and other residues can prevent paint from adhering properly, leading to uneven coverage or peeling over time. After washing, make sure to let the walls dry completely before priming or painting for the best results.
Cleaning painted walls is simple when you know the right solutions for each type of paint. Stick to mild, non-abrasive cleaners, and avoid excessive water or scrubbing. By following these guidelines, you can keep your walls looking fresh and vibrant without damaging the paint.