Freshly painted walls can make your space look beautiful, but over time, dust, fingerprints, scuffs, and stains can dull the look. The good news: with just a little regular care, you can keep your painted surfaces looking vibrant and clean, and extend the life of your paint job.
Here’s how to clean and maintain painted walls and surfaces the right way, without damaging your finish.
Know Your Paint Finish
Different paint finishes have different levels of durability and cleanability. Knowing what you’re working with can help you choose the best cleaning method:
- Flat or Matte: Least durable—use extra caution. Avoid scrubbing.
- Eggshell/Satin: More durable, commonly used in living rooms and hallways. Gently clean with mild soap and water.
- Semi-Gloss/Gloss: Very durable and easy to wipe down. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim.
Dust Walls Monthly
Use a soft microfiber cloth, dusting mop, or even a vacuum with a brush attachment. Dust may not be easy to see at first, but it builds up over time, especially near vents, corners, and the ceiling.
Wipe High-Touch Areas Often
Clean around light switches, door frames, baseboards, and stairwells regularly. These areas collect fingerprints and grime quickly.
How to Clean Painted Walls Safely
1. Start with a spot test.
Always test your cleaning solution on a small, hidden area to make sure it won’t damage or discolor the paint.
2. Use gentle cleaning solutions.
Mix a few drops of dish soap in warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can strip the paint.
3. Use soft tools.
Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Never a rough scrubber or steel wool.
4. Be careful and wipe gently.
Start from the top and work your way down to avoid streaks. Don’t scrub, just use light pressure.
5. Rinse and dry.
Wipe down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue, then dry with a soft towel.
For Tough Stains…
- Crayons & grease: Try a paste of baking soda and water, and rub gently.
- Scuffs: Magic Erasers work well but can dull some finishes—use sparingly.
- Mildew & mold: Use a solution of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water, especially in bathrooms. Avoid bleach unless recommended by your paint manufacturer.
Bonus Tips to Extend Paint Life
- Keep extra paint on hand for touch-ups. If you have any extra paint, keep it in a small container to cover up any chips or scuffs.
- Avoid excess moisture. Use exhaust fans in more humid rooms like kitchens and bathrooms to prevent bubbling or peeling paint.
- Try using furniture bumpers & wall guards. These prevent dents and marks in high-traffic or tight areas.
Want Walls That Stay Beautiful Longer?
Regular care goes a long way, but nothing beats a professional paint job with high-quality, durable products. Contact Painters Inc for expert advice, paint upgrades, or touch-up services to keep your home looking like new!
