Keeping your walls clean is essential for a fresh and inviting home. Over time, dust, stains, and scuff marks build up, making your space look dull. But don’t worry—cleaning your walls doesn’t have to be a daunting task! In this guide, our expert domestic cleaners will walk you through the best techniques, tools, and tips to keep your walls spotless, no matter the surface type. Let’s get started!
What is the best thing to wash walls with?
Having the right tools and supplies makes wall cleaning easier, faster, and more effective. The wrong products can leave streaks, damage paint, or even worse, leave stains. Choosing the right cleaning solution depends on your wall type and the level of dirt. Some stains require a gentle touch, while others need a stronger approach.
- Mild dish soap and warm water – Perfect for routine cleaning and safe for most painted walls.
- White vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) – Vinegar is a natural degreaser that helps remove grime and stains.
- Baking soda paste (baking soda + water) – Great for tough marks and scuffs.
- Commercial wall cleaners – Look for non-abrasive, paint-safe formulas.
Pro tip: Always test a cleaner on a hidden area before applying it to the entire wall.
Recommended Cleaning Tools
| Tool | Best For |
|---|---|
| Microfibre cloths | Dusting and wiping without scratching |
| Soft sponges | Gentle scrubbing of stains |
| Vacuum with brush attachment | Removing dust and cobwebs, especially on textured walls |
| Extendable mop or duster | Cleaning high walls and ceilings with ease |
| Bucket | Mixing and carrying cleaning solutions |
| Spray bottle | Applying homemade cleaners evenly |
| Soft-bristle brush | Cleaning textured walls and wallpaper |
What to Avoid
Some products can damage your walls, so avoid:
- Harsh chemicals like bleach – Can strip paint or stain wallpaper.
- Abrasive scrubbers – Can scratch painted surfaces.
- Excessive water – Can weaken drywall and wallpaper adhesives.
How to identify when your wall is dirty enough for washing
Knowing when your walls need cleaning isn’t always obvious, but there are clear signs to watch for. Regular inspection of your walls can help identify when it’s time for a wash. Look for visible marks like fingerprints around light switches, dark streaks near air vents, or a general dulling of paint color.
Kitchen and bathroom walls typically need more frequent cleaning due to moisture and cooking residue, while living areas and bedrooms may require less attention. If you notice dust accumulation, sticky residue when running your hand along the surface or if you find yourself cleaning spider webs, then its time!
Households with children, pets, or smokers may need more frequent wall cleaning, as will homes in urban areas exposed to higher pollution levels. For those with allergies, regular wall cleaning every 2-3 months can help reduce allergens and maintain better air quality.
Preparing for Wall Cleaning
Before diving in, take a few simple steps to protect your home and ensure safe cleaning.
Safety first!
Wall cleaning might seem simple, but safety should always be a priority—especially when working at height or using cleaning chemicals.
- Use a sturdy step ladder instead of standing on chairs or unstable furniture. If possible, have someone hold the ladder for added stability.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals, especially if using commercial cleaners.
- Ventilate the room by opening windows and doors to reduce exposure to cleaning fumes. If you’re using strong products like ammonia-based cleaners, a mask can help prevent irritation.
Protect your Floors and Furniture
- Cover the floor with old towels or plastic sheets to catch drips.
- Move furniture away from walls or cover it with dust sheets.
The Best Way to Clean Walls: Step-by-Step Guide
Cleaning your walls properly not only removes dust and stains but also keeps your home looking fresh and well-maintained. To achieve the best results, follow these simple yet effective steps.
1. Dusting and Cobweb Removal
Before applying any cleaning solution, start by removing dust and cobwebs. This is an important first step because dust particles can turn into streaky grime when mixed with water. Use a microfibre cloth, a dusting mop, or a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently wipe down the walls. Work from the top down to capture the most dust without making a mess, and pay special attention to corners, ceilings, and baseboards where dust tends to accumulate.
For textured surfaces, use your vacuum’s soft brush attachment to effectively remove dust from crevices. Regular dusting, ideally once a month, will prevent buildup and make deep cleaning much easier.
2. Basic Cleaning Techniques
Once dusting is complete, it’s time for a light clean to remove minor dirt and fingerprints. Fill a bucket with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap or another gentle cleaner. Dip a soft sponge or a microfibre cloth into the solution and wring it out well. The cloth should be damp, not soaking wet, to prevent excess water from damaging the paint. Always clean from top to bottom to avoid streaks, as dirty water can drip down onto already cleaned areas.
3. Drying and Finishing Touches
Once you’ve finished washing the walls, drying them properly is essential to prevent water streaks and damage. Use a clean, dry microfibre cloth or towel to wipe down the walls and absorb any excess moisture. If your walls have a satin or glossy finish, lightly buffing them with a dry cloth can help restore their shine. For quicker drying, open windows or turn on a fan, especially in humid areas where moisture tends to linger.
How to remove water stains on walls without removing the paint
Water marks on walls can be frustrating, but with the right approach, they can be effectively removed without damaging your paint finish. Start by identifying the source of the water stains to prevent future damage – this could be from leaks, condensation, or accidental splashes. For fresh water marks, use a gentle cleaning solution of warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to blot the area, being careful not to oversaturate the wall.
For stubborn water stains, create a mixture of one part white vinegar to one part water, or use a specialized stain-blocking primer for particularly resistant marks. Remember to work from the bottom up to prevent new drip marks from forming, and always dry the area thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth. If the water marks persist or keep returning, consult a professional as this might indicate an underlying moisture problem that needs addressing.
Cleaning white painted walls
White walls create a bright, timeless aesthetic in any home, but they require special attention to maintain their pristine appearance. The key to successful cleaning lies in understanding your wall’s paint finish – flat paints need gentler handling, while glossy finishes can withstand more thorough cleaning.
For routine maintenance, use a soft microfibre cloth with a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water, working in gentle circular motions to avoid leaving marks. For stubborn stains, create a paste with baking soda and water, or try a diluted white vinegar solution, always testing in an inconspicuous area first. Remember to act quickly when spots appear, as stains become harder to remove over time.
How to get grease off walls
Grease stains on kitchen walls are an inevitable result of cooking, particularly around the stove area. The key to successful grease removal is acting quickly before the stains have time to set into the wall surface. For light grease splatters, a solution of warm water and mild dish soap is usually sufficient – the same soap that cuts through grease on your dishes will work effectively on walls.
For stubborn or older grease stains, create a paste using baking soda and warm water, apply it gently to the affected area, and let it sit for several minutes before wiping clean. White vinegar mixed with warm water (1:1 ratio) is another powerful natural degreaser that can break down tough grease marks without damaging your paint.
Always test your chosen cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first, and work in gentle circular motions with a soft sponge or microfibre cloth to avoid damaging the wall surface. For particularly challenging areas, especially those above the stove, you might need to repeat the process several times, being careful not to oversaturate the wall.
Tips for Maintaining Clean Walls
Regular Cleaning Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Dust walls | Monthly | Use a microfibre cloth, dusting mop, or vacuum |
| Clean corners & baseboards | Monthly | Wipe with a dry or damp cloth |
| Deep clean walls | Every 6 months | Wash with mild soap and water |
| Spot clean stains | As needed | Wipe immediately with a damp cloth |
Preventive Measures
Preventing stains is easier than scrubbing them off later. Using washable paint in high-traffic areas helps walls resist stains and allows for easy cleaning. Positioning furniture slightly away from walls prevents scuff marks, while protective bumpers or adhesive strips on frequently touched areas reduce wear and tear. In homes with children or pets, installing a wainscot or wall protector in busy areas can help keep walls looking new.
Quick Cleaning Solutions
Addressing spills immediately prevents stains from setting. Keeping baby wipes or a damp cloth handy makes it easy to wipe away fingerprints, coffee spills, or crayon marks. For greasy stains, a mild dish soap solution works well, while a magic eraser can remove scuffs and tougher marks—just be gentle to avoid damaging the paint.
Professional Cleaning Considerations
While DIY wall cleaning works for regular maintenance, professional cleaning services offer expertise and specialized equipment for challenging situations. Professional cleaners have the proper tools, safety equipment, and knowledge to handle difficult stains, high walls, and delicate surfaces without causing damage. Consider hiring experts for annual deep cleaning, particularly in commercial spaces, homes with high ceilings, or when dealing with stubborn stains, mold, or extensive grime buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wall cleaner?
The best wall cleaner depends on your wall type and level of dirt. For general cleaning, a mix of warm water and mild dish soap works well on most painted walls. For tougher stains, a baking soda paste or a magic eraser can help remove marks without damaging the surface. If you prefer a store-bought option, choose a non-abrasive, paint-safe cleaner. Always test a small area first to ensure the product won’t affect the finish.
Can you use vinegar on painted walls?
Yes, but with caution. White vinegar diluted with water (1:1 ratio) is great for removing grease and mild stains on most painted walls. However, vinegar is acidic and can be too harsh for matte or flat finishes, causing dull spots. To be safe, do a patch test in an inconspicuous area before cleaning the entire wall. If you notice any discoloration, switch to a gentler soap-and-water solution.
Can I mop my walls?
Yes, but only with the right mop and technique. A microfibre mop with a damp (not soaking wet) cloth is ideal for cleaning large wall areas, especially if they’re hard to reach. For best results, wring out excess water and work in gentle, circular motions from top to bottom to prevent streaks.
Keeping your walls clean doesn’t have to be a difficult task. With the right tools, cleaning methods, and preventive measures, you can maintain spotless walls with minimal effort. Whether you’re tackling everyday marks, deep-set stains, or just refreshing your space, following these simple steps will help preserve your walls’ appearance for years to come.
Need a helping hand with household chores? Wecasa house cleaning professionals are always here for you! We are just a few clicks away. Book your cleaning session now, sit back, and watch the magic happen in no time!
