16 October, 2020

Over time, dust and dirt accumulate on walls. In addition to making your walls look unsightly, dust and dirt particles can damage your paint. Once the dust settles on the surface of your interior walls, it dulls the original brightness of your paint.

Cleaning your home’s interior walls regularly will make your paint last longer. Many homeowners are worried about damaging the surface of their walls or paint while cleaning them. These concerns are not unfounded. Finishes can be damaged when rubbed too hard. Go slow and use gentle strokes.

Here are some tips for cleaning your interior walls without damaging the paint.

Prepare and Dust

Before you start cleaning your walls, move furniture and other items such as hanging wall art out of the way so you do not bump into them while moving. Remove any fixtures that may be in your way.

Place a drop cloth or spread out an old newspaper on the floor to catch any drops that may splash on the floor. Use a cheesecloth or tack cloth to get rid of loose debris.

Use Mild Detergents and Non-abrasive Cleaners

In most cases, warm water is sufficient for cleaning. If too much grime has settled on your walls, you can also use a non-abrasive, mild detergent or dish soap to remove it. Start with warm water. If you encounter tough stains, add a few drops of dish soap to warm water at a ratio of 3 to 4 drops per gallon.

Steer clear of harsh, abrasive products as they can damage your paint. Use mildly hot water. You can use degreasers but only on glossy painted surfaces.

Clean Thoroughly

Use two sponges. One for applying the cleaning solution and the other to wipe it away. Keep a bucket full of clean water handy. Use clean water to wash away the dirty water. Move from top to bottom. If required, use a sturdy ladder to reach high walls.

Alternatively, use a sponge mop with an extended handle to clean high walls. Interior painters in Santa Rosa, CA recommend working the sponge in a circular motion to best remove stains and dust. Use your clean sponge to remove debris on the wall while it is still moist. Once you have got rid of debris, move to the next section.

Cleaning Troublesome Areas

You may have to work harder to remove grease stains, crayon marks, and food splatters. If warm soapy water does not work, use a solution of baking soda and water. You can even use dry baking soda, just remember not to press overly hard.

You may have to use a chemical cleaner to clean stubborn stains. Before treating stains, make sure the cleaning product is safe to use on walls.

Do you need more tips to extend the life of your paint? Look no further than Pellegrini’s Platinum Painting. We are a team of seasoned interior painters in Santa Rosa, CA. We are committed to helping our customers keep their paint jobs looking pristine for years after they are painted. To talk to one of our pros, call us at (707) 291-2615.