How to properly clean your painted walls for a fresh and radiant home interior

Cleaning the walls of your home can have a transformative effect, making your interior look brighter and more inviting. If you're unsure where to start when it comes to cleaning painted walls, don't worry! Colorworks Painting & Designs is here to give you some simple tips and tricks to help you maintain clean and radiant walls that will make your home shine. So let's get started!

First things first, it's important to understand the type of paint and finish on your walls. Different paints require different cleaning methods, so knowing what you have is crucial.

Here are some common types of interior paint:

Latex and Oil-Based Paint:

These paints are generally durable and can withstand mild cleaning.

You can use a mild, nonabrasive cleaner mixed with warm water.

Always opt for a soft sponge and avoid scrubbing vigorously to prevent any damage to the paint.

Semigloss or Glossy Paint:

These finishes are more robust and can handle mild degreasing cleaners.

However, exercise caution while cleaning them as they can still be scratched or scuffed.

Flat, Eggshell, or Satin Paint:

These finishes are less durable and require gentle cleaning methods.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing too hard as they can easily damage the paint.

Now that you know the type of paint on your walls, it's time to choose the right cleaning solution. For a gentle approach, start with warm water and a slightly damp, soft sponge or microfiber cloth. If there is persistent grime, you can try a homemade cleaning solution: mix a teaspoon of undyed liquid dish soap and ¼ teaspoon of white vinegar into one quart of warm water. This solution works well for semigloss or glossy finishes. For latex and oil-based paints, you can replace vinegar with ammonia to enhance the cleaning power.

If you're concerned about potential damage, always test the cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area behind furniture or hanging wall art before using it on the entire wall.

Preparation is key to a successful cleaning process. Remove wall art, pictures, and furniture from the walls to create an unobstructed workspace. Lay down towels, drop cloths, or newspaper to protect your floors from any potential drips. Take the time to thoroughly dust your walls, especially textured ones, as they tend to collect dust and particles.

Gather your supplies before you begin, including a large soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Avoid using dyed sponges to prevent any 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.

Now let's dive into the cleaning process itself! Start at the top left-hand corner of the wall and work your way down using gentle circular motions. Make sure your sponge or cloth isn't too wet to prevent water from running down the walls. After applying the cleaning solution, go over the cleaned areas with fresh, clean water to remove any residue. For high walls, a sponge mop with a long handle can be particularly helpful.

Once you've finished cleaning, use a clean, dry sponge or towel to expedite the drying process. Allow your walls enough time to dry completely before returning furniture and wall art to their original places.

If you come across stubborn stains on your walls, it's important to address them promptly. Begin by gently dabbing the stain with a water-dampened sponge or cloth to remove any debris. Test whether the stain can be removed without using any cleaners.

For more difficult stains, try using a damp cloth or sponge with baking soda and gently scrub the affected area. You can also mix baking soda and water to create a paste and apply it to the stain. If these methods fail, consider using a stronger cleaner (after testing it in a hidden spot) and wipe the area clean with a sponge or towel.

In some cases, you may accidentally remove paint while cleaning, or a stain might prove impossible to remove entirely. This is where spot painting comes in handy. If possible, try to use the original paint from your walls. If you need new paint, make sure it matches the color, type, and finish of the original paint.

Apply the paint in the same manner as the original application, using a brush or roll-on technique. Ensure that you blend it in by feathering to avoid creating thick spots or drips.

If you're looking to go beyond just cleaning and want to update your interior with a fresh coat of paint, Colorworks Painting & Designs can help! Our interior painting services in Hilton Head SC are designed to create a new and uplifting space that reflects your style and personality. Let us transform your home together! Contact us today to learn how we can assist with our interior painting services.