If you want to know how to clean walls, you're not alone. Learning how to clean your walls will help you keep your home fresh and clean, and avoid the accumulation of dust and dirt that can make your home look dull and tired, or even trigger asthma and allergy attacks.
Your walls might not look like a dust-trap, but they are! Adding cleaning your walls to your regular household routine can make a big difference to your home, and as a handy painter, I know a trick or two about how to clean dirty walls, and what to use to clean walls in no time. (And don't worry, you don't need any specialist wall cleaning tools!)
How to Clean Walls Fast
Nobody wants to spend all day cleaning their walls, but getting such a large area cleaned fast can be tricky. How to wash walls fast depends on the finish of the walls. Textured walls, and walls with lots of shelves, paintings, and other decorations will take longer to clean. In this guide, I will share the fastest method to clean flat or knockdown wall finishes. If you have textured or papered walls, I will also provide some alternative tips below.
Step 1: Prepare the Walls
Before you begin cleaning your walls, it's important to prepare them properly. Start by clearing the walls of any paintings, clocks, and decorations. Emptying shelves will also make it easier to access the entire wall surface.
Step 2: Remove Excess Dust
If your walls are very dusty, it's a good idea to remove the excess dust before cleaning. You can use a feather duster or a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe away the dust. This will prevent the dust from spreading and smearing when you start cleaning.
Step 3: Choose the Right Cleaner
Choosing the right cleaner is crucial to effectively clean your painted walls. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the paint. Instead, opt for a multipurpose cleaner that is safe for painted surfaces. You can find a wide range of wall cleaners in the market, or you can make your own DIY cleaner by mixing equal parts of water and mild dish soap.
Step 4: Apply the Cleaner
Now that you have your cleaner ready, it's time to apply it to the walls. Fill a spray bottle with the cleaner solution and lightly mist the walls. Be careful not to make the walls too wet, as excessive moisture can damage the paint. Start from the top of the wall and work your way down, ensuring that the entire surface is covered with the cleaner.
Step 5: Use a Handy Painter's Technique
As a handy painter, I have a secret technique that will make cleaning your walls a breeze. Instead of using a traditional sponge or cloth, I recommend using a mop to wash the walls. Yes, you read that right, a mop! It might sound unconventional, but trust me, it's the best tool for the job.
You can use a flat mop or even a microfiber wall mop to clean your walls efficiently. The advantage of using a mop is that it covers a wider area with each pass, making the cleaning process faster and more effective. Simply dip the mop in the cleaner solution, wring out any excess liquid, and gently swipe it across the walls in a back-and-forth motion. Repeat this process until you have cleaned the entire wall surface.
Pro Tip: If you need a fresh coat of paint after you've cleaned your walls, consider reaching out to Handy Painter for a free consultation (Terms & Conditions Apply).
They can provide expert advice and assistance to give your walls a brand new look.
Alternative Tips for Textured or Papered Walls
If you have textured or papered walls, the above method may not be suitable. Here are some alternative tips to help you clean these types of walls effectively:
Use a soft-bristle brush: Instead of a mop, use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the textured or papered walls. This will help remove dirt and dust from the crevices without causing any damage.
Vacuum with a brush attachment: If your walls have a heavy texture, using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment can be an effective way to remove dust and debris. Make sure to use a low suction setting to prevent any damage to the walls.
Spot clean with a damp cloth: For small areas that need immediate attention, you can spot clean textured or papered walls with a damp cloth. Gently dab the affected area to remove stains or marks without rubbing too hard.
Remember, it's always a good idea to test any cleaning method or solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your wall before applying it to the entire surface. This will help ensure that the cleaner or technique does not cause any damage or discoloration.
Maintaining Clean Walls
Now that you know how to clean your painted walls, it's important to maintain their cleanliness to keep your home looking fresh and vibrant. Here are some tips to help you maintain clean walls:
Dust regularly: Dusting your walls on a regular basis will prevent the build-up of dirt and dust. Use a feather duster or a dry microfiber cloth to gently remove any dust particles.
Wipe off stains immediately: If you notice any stains or marks on your walls, it's important to clean them immediately. Use a mild cleaner and a soft cloth to gently wipe off the stain without rubbing too hard.
Avoid using abrasive materials: When cleaning your walls, avoid using abrasive materials such as steel wool or scrub brushes. These can scratch the paint and cause permanent damage.
Consider using wall protectors: If you have high-traffic areas or areas prone to scuff marks, consider using wall protectors such as chair railings or wall decals. These will help prevent damage and make cleaning easier.
Repaint when necessary: Over time, the paint on your walls may fade or become damaged. If you notice significant wear and tear, consider repainting your walls to give them a fresh and clean look.
By following these tips and incorporating regular wall cleaning into your household routine, you can ensure that your walls stay clean and beautiful for years to come.
Conclusion
Cleaning your painted walls doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right techniques and tools, you can keep your walls looking fresh and clean without spending hours scrubbing. Remember to choose the right cleaner, prepare the walls properly, and use a handy painter's technique such as using a mop to make the process faster and more efficient. And if you need a fresh coat of paint after you've cleaned your walls, don't hesitate to reach out to Handy Painter for a free consultation.*(Terms & Conditions Apply)
They can provide expert advice and assistance to give your walls a brand new look. So go ahead, give your walls the attention they deserve and enjoy a clean and vibrant home!
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