Are you tired of looking at dirty, dull walls in your home? Cleaning your walls can make a huge difference in brightening up a room and giving it a fresh, clean look. If you’re unsure about how to clean your painted walls, don’t worry! We’re here to help. At American Painting Specialists, we have the expertise to guide you through the process and make your walls shine.
First things first, it’s essential to know what kind of paint you have on your walls before you start cleaning. Different types of paints and finishes require different cleaning methods. If you have a flat, eggshell, or satin finish, these are less durable and require gentle cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals or degreasers and be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can rub off the finish.
For high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, you’re more likely to have a semigloss or glossy finish. These are more durable and can withstand mild degreasing cleaners. However, be cautious when cleaning and use a soft sponge to avoid scratching or scuffing the paint.
If you have latex or oil-based paint on your walls, these are relatively durable. You can use a mild, nonabrasive cleaner mixed with warm water to clean them. Remember to still use a soft sponge and avoid scrubbing too hard, as you may risk scratching or removing the paint.
Now, let’s talk about cleaning solutions. The best practice is to start with warm water and a slightly damp soft sponge or microfiber cloth. If there is still grime left over, you can try a more potent cleaning solution. Making your own solution at home is easy! Mix a teaspoon of undyed liquid dish soap and ¼ teaspoon of white vinegar into one quart of warm water. This solution works well for semigloss or glossy finishes. For latex and oil-based paints, you can increase the power of the solution by swapping out the vinegar for ammonia.
If you’re worried about damaging your paint or finish, you can always test clean in an inconspicuous area, such as behind furniture or hanging wall art.
Before you start cleaning, make sure to prepare the area. Remove all hanging wall art or pictures and move furniture away from the walls. Lay down towels, drip cloths, or newspaper to protect your floors. Thoroughly dust the walls, especially textured walls, as they tend to accumulate dust and particles.
Now, gather your cleaning supplies. A large soft sponge or microfiber cloth is effective for cleaning. Avoid using dyed sponges, as they can cause stains. If you have sensitive skin, wearing kitchen or cleaning gloves may be helpful. Lastly, prepare a bucket with the cleaning solution and another with clean, warm water for rinsing your sponge or cloth.
It’s time to clean the walls! Start at the top left-hand corner of the wall and wash gently in circular motions, working your way down. Make sure your sponge or cloth is not too wet, as you want to avoid water running down the walls. After going over each area with the cleaning solution, go over them again with fresh, clean water to remove any excess residue. If you have high walls, a sponge mop with a long handle can be useful.
Once you’ve finished cleaning, go over the walls with a clean, fully dry sponge or towel to help them dry faster. Allow enough time for your walls to dry thoroughly before replacing furniture and wall art.
If you encounter a stubborn stain on your wall, it’s best to address it as soon as possible. Start by gently dabbing the spot with a water-damp sponge or cloth to remove any debris. If the stain persists, try using baking soda. You can apply a damp cloth or sponge dipped in baking soda and gently scrub the stain. Alternatively, mix baking soda and water to create a paste and use it in the same way. If these methods don’t work, you can try a more potent cleaner after doing a spot test to ensure it won’t damage the paint or finish. After cleaning, wipe the area with a clean sponge or towel to remove any cleaning residue.
In some cases, spot cleaning may not be enough, and you may need to touch up the paint. If you’ve scrubbed too hard and removed paint or if the stain remains, spot painting is the way to go. If possible, use the original can of paint that was used on your walls. If you need to purchase new paint, make sure to get the same color, type, and finish as the original.
When applying the paint, use the same method as before, whether it’s with a brush or roll-on. Blend the new paint onto the previous paint by feathering it on and ensuring there are no thick spots or drips. If you’re looking to do more than clean your walls and want to update your interior, American Painting Specialists is here to help. Our team of professional interior painting contractors can assist you in creating a new and uplifting space for yourself. From choosing the right colors to executing the perfect paint job, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life!
