How To Clean Your Home's Painted Walls

When it comes to dirt and stains, walls are one of the more vulnerable areas of your home. Unfortunately, there are only so many pictures you can hang to hide the evidence. The good news is that you can clean painted walls successfully. Use some TLC and these helpful tips to have soiled and scuffed walls looking like new again.

1. Determine Paint Type
   Semi-gloss or enamel finishes are more durable than flat, stain, or eggshell, so they can stand up to stronger cleaning products. Regardless of paint type, always use a soft sponge rather than abrasive wipes to prevent scratches.
2. Remove Dust and Debris
   Run your vacuum cleaner's soft brush attachment over the walls to clear dust and other loose debris.
3. Protect the Floor
   Place towels alongside the baseboards to absorb runoff from excess water. Wring out the sponge frequently as you work to reduce the amount of dripping.
4. Work from the Top Down
   Visually section off the wall and start at the top, working your way down. Be sure to dry each section with a soft towel to prevent streaks.
5. Start Simple
   The key is to use the most gentle cleaning solution possible that's still effective. Begin by wiping the wall down with warm water alone. If that doesn't work, add dishwashing liquid to the water. For tougher jobs, use a DIY solution of one-gallon warm water containing one cup of ammonia, 1/2 cup of vinegar, and 1/4 cup of baking soda. Pour into a spray bottle for easier application.
6. Treat Stains Separately
   Mix up a paste of 1/2 cup of baking soda and one ounce of water. Do a patch test on a less noticeable part of the wall. If it passes with no watermarks or dulled finish, apply the paste to any stains. Use a soft circular motion to avoid disturbing the paint finish. Rinse and dry as usual.
7. Use Commercial Products Carefully
   Some cleaning jobs are so stubborn they require additional reinforcements. Look for solvent-free cleaning products that are eco-friendly and non-toxic.
8. Follow Preventive Maintenance
   Once the walls are sparkling again, take preventive steps to minimize the effects of dirt and stains. Periodically vacuum walls using the soft brush attachment, then go over them with a cloth-covered broom or mop sprayed with a dusting product. Treat fingerprints and other marks as soon as possible.

Experts recommend repainting most interior walls every five to seven years, so use that as a rule of thumb. In the meantime, these steps will keep walls looking clean and fresh.

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