How to Clean Interior Painted Walls

We all love that fresh-paint feeling, but let’s face it – life happens! Fingerprints appear dust settles, and before you know it, your walls are begging for a refresh. Cleaning painted walls might seem daunting, but it mustn’t be a chore. With a few simple steps and the right know-how, you can quickly have your walls gleaming again.

What’s on Your Walls? The Great Paint Detective Work

Before cleaning, you must play detective and figure out what paint graces your walls. This is crucial because different paint types react differently to cleaning methods.

Paint Types: A Quick Overview

The most common interior wall paints fall into two categories:

• Latex/Water-Based: These are popular for their fast drying time, low odour, and easy cleanup (with water!). However, they are typically more sensitive to harsh scrubbing.
• Oil-Based: Durable and moisture-resistant, oil-based paints were more common in the past. They require specific cleaners and a bit more elbow grease.

There are also newer options like milk paint or natural clay paints, which often have specific care instructions.

You likely won’t have the paint cans lying around, so here’s how to play detective:

1. The Rub Test: Dampen a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and rub it on a small, inconspicuous area of your wall. If the paint comes off on the cotton ball, it’s likely latex. If not, it’s likely oil-based or another type.
2. Check for Sheen: Latex paints are usually available in a broader range of sheens (matte to high-gloss). Oil-based paints are often found in satin or semi-gloss finishes.
3. Consult the Pros: If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to contact a professional interior painter or your local paint supplier for guidance. They can often identify the paint type by looking at it.

Why This Matters

Knowing your paint type lets you choose the right cleaning solution and technique. Using harsh cleaners on delicate latex paint can lead to streaking or even paint removal. Similarly, gentle methods on oil-based paint might not effectively remove dirt and grime.

How do you clean dirty walls without removing paint?

Here are some effective methods to clean dirty walls without damaging the paint:

Preparation

Before you start cleaning, taking a few minutes to prepare your home will save you time and potential headaches later.

• Furniture Freedom: Move furniture away from the walls to give yourself ample cleaning space. If you can’t move large pieces completely, push them to the centre of the room and cover them with old sheets or drop cloths.
• Outlet Etiquette: Remove outlet and light switch covers for a thorough clean. You can clean these separately with a damp cloth and mild soap.
• Drop Cloth Defense: Lay down drop cloths or old sheets along the baseboards of the walls you’ll be cleaning. This prevents dirty water or cleaning solutions from damaging your floors.
• Secure the Perimeter: Use painter’s tape to secure the drop cloths to the floor. This prevents them from shifting and bunching up while you’re cleaning.

General Cleaning

1. Mix a gentle cleaning solution using warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap.
2. Dampen a soft sponge or microfiber cloth in the solution and wring it out well so it’s damp but not soaking.
3. Working in small sections from top to bottom, gently clean the wall using light circular motions.
4. Rinse the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
5. Dry the cleaned section with a microfiber cloth or let it air dry.

Tackling Stubborn Stains

1. Make a paste using baking soda and a small amount of water.
2. Gently apply the paste to the stain using a soft sponge and circular motions.
3. Wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth and let dry.
4. Apply a mixture of white vinegar, liquid dish soap, and warm water for grease stains.
5. Use a magic eraser with gentle, even strokes for scuff marks.

Maz Nazzimi, a professional painter at Dupaint Sydney, has this expert tip: “For tougher stains or grime build-up, consider using Tricleanium, a powerful cleaning solution available at Bunnings. Dilute a small amount according to the product instructions and test it in an inconspicuous area first. Tricleanium can be an effective alternative to sugar soap for removing stubborn marks without damaging your paint.”

Additional Tips

• Always test your cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first.
• Use less soap and water on flat or matte finishes as they are more delicate.
• For regular maintenance, dust walls and spot-clean as needed to keep them looking fresh.

Following these methods, you can effectively clean your walls without removing paint, keeping them fresh and well-maintained.

What are the best homemade cleaning solutions for dirty walls?

Here are some effective homemade cleaning solutions for dirty walls:

Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water to create a natural cleaning solution. This mixture is adequate for general wall cleaning as the acidity of vinegar helps break down dirt and grime without damaging the paint. It’s beneficial for removing grease and light stains, it can even remove acrylic paint from glass.

Baking Soda Paste

Make a paste by combining 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water. This gentle abrasive paste is excellent for tackling stubborn stains on painted walls. Apply it to the stained area and gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge. The mild abrasive properties of baking soda help lift stains without harming the wall’s surface.

Dish Soap Solution

Create a simple cleaning solution by mixing 2 cups of warm water, 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap, and 1 teaspoon of distilled white vinegar. This mild cleaner suits most painted walls and can effectively remove dirt and light stains.

Lemon Juice Mixture

Combine lemon juice with water for a refreshing and effective cleaning solution. The citric acid in lemon juice is a natural degreaser and stain remover, making it particularly useful for removing grease spots or sticky residue on walls.

When using any of these homemade solutions, remember to:

1. Test the solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the paint.
2. Use soft cloths or sponges to avoid scratching the wall surface.
3. Avoid over-wetting the walls, especially if they’re painted with flat or matte finishes.
4. Rinse the cleaned areas with a damp cloth and dry them thoroughly.

By using these natural, homemade cleaning solutions, you can effectively clean your walls without relying on harsh chemicals, maintaining both their appearance and a healthier living environment.

Can you use Gumpton on painted walls?

Yes, Gumption can be used on painted walls with some critical caveats.

Gumption is a multi-purpose cleanser that removes tough stains and grease marks from various surfaces, including walls.

However, it’s essential to use caution when applying Gumption to painted walls, especially those with delicate finishes:

• Avoid using Gumption on walls with flat or matte paint finishes, as these are more delicate and susceptible to damage.
• It’s safer to use on walls with gloss or semi-gloss paint finishes, which are more durable and can withstand stronger cleaners.

Before using Gumption on a painted wall:

1. Test it on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the paint.
2. Use a damp cloth or soft sponge to apply the product, avoiding prolonged rubbing in one spot.
3. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water after cleaning.

For general wall cleaning, milder solutions like warm water with mild dish detergent are often recommended as a safer first option.

If you use Gumption, follow the instructions carefully and avoid using it on stainless steel appliances or other delicate surfaces where scratching may occur.