Introduction

Cleaning walls may not seem like a glamorous task, but it’s an essential part of maintaining a clean home. Walls are subjected to dust, dirt, and grime, which, over time, can dull their appearance. Keeping walls clean can also help prevent the growth of mold and mildew and keep indoor air quality healthy. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of cleaning walls – from preparation to tools – and provide tips, tricks, and hacks to make the job easier.

The Comprehensive Guide to Cleaning Walls

Preparation

Before you begin cleaning your walls, you’ll need to prepare your space. Wall cleaning can be a messy job, so clear the room of furniture, knick-knacks, and any other items that could get in your way. Be sure to protect your floors and shelves with drop cloths, plastic, or towels, and remove any hardware, such as light switch covers and wall art.

Supplies Needed

To clean walls, you’ll need a few supplies. The types of cleaning solutions, sponges, cloths, and brushes needed will depend on the types of walls you’re cleaning. For example, painted walls need a different cleaning solution than wallpapered walls. Here are some basic supplies you’ll need:

1. Cleaning solution – Choose a cleaning solution appropriate for your wall type. For painted walls, use a gentle all-purpose cleaner or dish soap and warm water. For wallpapered walls, use a mild solution of vinegar and water. For brick walls, use a gentle solution of water and white vinegar.

2. Sponges – Choose a sponge appropriate for your wall type. For painted walls, use a soft sponge. For wallpapered walls, use a cellulose or synthetic sponge. For brick walls, use a natural sea sponge.

3. Cloths – Choose a cloth appropriate for your wall type. For painted walls, use a soft cloth. For wallpapered walls, use a plain white cloth. For brick walls, use a microfiber cloth.

4. Brushes – Choose a brush appropriate for your wall type. For painted walls, use a soft-bristled brush. For wallpapered walls, use a stiff-bristled brush. For brick walls, use a natural bristle brush.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cleaning Different Types of Walls

Painted Walls

Step 1: Begin by dusting the walls with a microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Mix a cleaning solution by adding a few drops of dish soap to a bucket of warm water.

Step 3: Wet a soft sponge with the cleaning solution and wring it out.

Step 4: Starting at the top of the wall, wipe the sponge in a circular motion, working your way down to the bottom of the wall.

Step 5: Rinse the sponge frequently and change the cleaning solution as needed.

Step 6: Dry the walls with a soft towel or clean, dry cloth.

Wallpapered Walls

Step 1: Begin by dusting the walls with a microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Mix a cleaning solution by adding ½ cup of white vinegar to a gallon of warm water.

Step 3: Dip a cellulose sponge into the solution and wring it out.

Step 4: Starting at the top of the wall, wipe the sponge gently over the wallpaper, working your way down to the bottom of the wall.

Step 5: Rinse the sponge frequently and change the cleaning solution as needed.

Step 6: Dry the walls with a plain white cloth or clean, dry sponge.

Brick Walls

Step 1: Begin by dusting the walls with a microfiber cloth and vacuuming any loose debris.

Step 2: Mix a cleaning solution by adding 1 cup of white vinegar to 1 gallon of warm water.

Step 3: Dip a natural sea sponge into the solution and wring it out.

Step 4: Starting at the top of the wall, wipe the sponge over the brick in a circular motion, working your way down to the bottom of the wall.

Step 5: Rinse the sponge frequently and change the cleaning solution as needed.

Step 6: Dry the bricks with a microfiber cloth.

DIY Wall Cleaning Solutions

Natural cleaning solutions are an excellent alternative to commercial cleaners, which often contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both the environment and your health. Here are some easy-to-make DIY wall cleaning solutions:

Vinegar and Water

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the walls and wipe clean with a soft cloth.

Baking Soda and Water

Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 2 cups of warm water. Apply the solution to the walls with a sponge and wipe clean.

Lemon Juice and Water

Mix equal parts of lemon juice and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the walls and wipe clean with a soft cloth.

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Walls

Using Too Much Water

Using too much water can damage your walls. Always wring out your sponge or cloth thoroughly and avoid oversaturating your walls.

Using Abrasive Materials

Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool or scouring pads, as they can scratch and damage your walls.

Not Testing Products on a Small Area First

Always test cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area before using them on your entire wall. This will ensure that the solution does not damage or discolor your walls.

Overlooking Stains

Ignoring stains can make them harder to remove later. Address stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting in.

Cleaning from Bottom to Top

Cleaning from bottom to top can cause streaks and drips. Start cleaning at the top of your wall and work your way down.

Best Tools for Cleaning Walls

Sponges

Choose a sponge appropriate for your wall type. For painted walls, use a soft sponge. For wallpapered walls, use a cellulose or synthetic sponge. For brick walls, use a natural sea sponge.

Cleaning Cloths

Choose a cloth appropriate for your wall type. For painted walls, use a soft cloth. For wallpapered walls, use a plain white cloth. For brick walls, use a microfiber cloth.

Vacuums

Use vacuum attachments to clean walls. Attach your vacuum’s soft brush or crevice tool to its hose and use it to reach high or tight spots.

Quick Wall Cleaning Hacks

Using a Lint Roller

Use a lint roller to quickly remove dust and dirt from your walls. Simply roll the lint roller over the surface of your wall.

Steam Cleaning

Use a portable steam cleaner with a soft cleaning pad to clean your walls quickly and effectively.

Using a Dust Mop

Use a dry dust mop to quickly remove dust and cobwebs from your walls. Extendable dust mops work well for high walls and ceilings.

Spot Cleaning

Spot clean walls as needed using a damp sponge or cloth to treat small stains or marks.

The Expert’s Guide to Removing Tough Stains from Your Walls

Crayon Marks

Use a pencil eraser or a mixture of baking soda and water to remove crayon marks from your walls.

Scuff Marks

Use a magic eraser or a mixture of baking soda and water to remove scuff marks from your walls.

Greasy/Oily Stains

Treat greasy or oily stains with a solution of dish soap and warm water. Apply the solution to the stain with a clean sponge and wipe clean.

Ink and Marker Stains

Apply rubbing alcohol to a soft cloth and gently rub the stain until it disappears.

Mold/Mildew

Mix a solution of bleach and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the mold/mildew and wait 10-15 minutes before wiping it away.

Conclusion

Cleaning your walls doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right preparation, supplies, and tools, you can have your walls looking clean and fresh in no time. Remember to avoid common mistakes like using abrasive materials or cleaning with too much water, and always test cleaning solutions on a small area first. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to tackle tough stains and keep your walls looking their best.