How To Clean Painted Walls Easily

Looking to freshen up your interior with a new coat of paint? Look no further than J. Canabe Painting, your go-to interior painting contractors in Lyndhurst, NJ. But before you start painting, it’s essential to ensure your walls are clean and ready for the new color. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to clean painted walls using simple and effective methods.

First things first, it’s important to understand the type of paint and finish on your walls. Different paints require different cleaning techniques, so let’s break it down:

For latex and oil-based paint, which are generally more durable, you can use a mild, nonabrasive cleaner mixed with warm water. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as it may scratch or remove the paint.

If you have semigloss or glossy finishes, commonly found in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, handle them with care. Despite their durability, these finishes can still be prone to scratches and scuffs. Use a soft sponge or cloth when cleaning.

For flat, eggshell, or satin finishes, which are the least durable, opt for gentle cleaning methods. Harsh chemicals or degreasers should be avoided, as well as aggressive scrubbing. These finishes are more likely to rub off, so be cautious.

Now that you understand your paint type, let’s move on to choosing the right cleaning solution. For a gentle approach, warm water and a slightly damp soft sponge or microfiber cloth will do the trick. If you’re dealing with stubborn grime, you can create your own cleaning solution at home. Mix a teaspoon of undyed liquid dish soap with ¼ teaspoon of white vinegar into one quart of warm water. This solution works great for semigloss or glossy finishes. If you have latex or oil-based paints, you can enhance the cleaning power by substituting vinegar with ammonia.

Before you begin cleaning, prepare your workspace by removing any hanging wall art or pictures, and move furniture away from the walls. Lay down towels, drip cloths, or newspapers to protect your floors from potential drips. Thoroughly dust the walls, especially textured surfaces, as they tend to accumulate dust and particles.

Gather your cleaning supplies: a large soft sponge or microfiber cloth (avoid dyed sponges to prevent staining), and consider wearing kitchen or cleaning gloves if you have sensitive skin. Prepare two buckets – one with the cleaning solution and another with clean, warm water for rinsing your sponge or cloth.

Start cleaning from the top left-hand corner of the wall, using gentle circular motions as you work your way down. Be sure not to oversaturate your sponge or cloth to avoid water running down the walls. After treating each area with the cleaning solution, go over it once more with fresh, clean water to remove any residue. For hard-to-reach high walls, a sponge mop with a long handle can come in handy.

Once you’ve finished cleaning, give your walls a final wipe-down with a clean, dry sponge or towel to speed up the drying process. Allow enough time for your walls to air dry completely before returning furniture and wall art to their original positions.

Sometimes, spot cleaning becomes necessary for specific stains. If you encounter a wall stain, start by gently dabbing it with a water-dampened sponge or cloth to remove loose debris. Test whether the stain can be removed without cleaners. If it persists, try using baking soda. Dampen a cloth or sponge with baking soda and gently scrub the affected area, or create a paste by mixing baking soda and water. If these methods don’t work, consider using a stronger cleaner (after testing in a hidden spot) and then wipe the area clean to eliminate any residue.

If your cleaning efforts unintentionally remove some paint or fall short of completely removing a stain, spot painting may be necessary to touch up the affected areas. Whenever possible, use the original paint from your walls. If you need to purchase new paint, ensure it matches the color, type, and finish of the original. Apply the paint using the same method as the initial application, whether it’s a brush or a roll-on. Feather the paint on to blend it seamlessly into the existing coat and prevent uneven spots or drips. If you’re ready for a fresh look and considering more than just cleaning your walls, J. Canabe Painting is here to help. As expert interior painting contractors in Lyndhurst, NJ, we’re ready to transform your living space with a new and uplifting coat of paint. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with your interior painting needs. Let’s revamp your home together!