Clean Painted Walls in Three Steps {or Less!}

Don’t keep skipping this job–clean painted walls in just three steps–or less. Your walls just got the easiest clean they’ve ever had! Here’s how.

How to Clean Painted Walls in Three Easy Steps

Preventive Maintenance

1.The first step to clean painted walls and keep them looking fresh & new is preventive maintenance. All this means is that you need to dust and spot clean as mishaps happen. The easiest way to dust your walls is to use your vacuum with a soft bristle attachment. You can also use a microfiber dusting cloth that traps dust and cobwebs and removes them. I like to use the vacuum along the tops of the baseboards, on the trim around windows and doors, and on windowsills. When I notice fingerprints or other marks, I use a soft damp cloth to rub them away. Most smudges tend to happen around light switches, so keep an eye on those places in between washings. 

Solution for Cleaning Painted Walls

2.When a deeper cleaning is necessary, use this simple solution to clean painted walls. All you need is one quart of warm water, one tablespoon dishwashing liquid, and 1/4 teaspoon white vinegar. Mix this together in a bucket. Use a soft cloth or sponge. Soak it in the all-purpose cleaning solution,  and wring it out before you apply it to the walls. Rub the walls lightly, and pay close attention to the areas that attract the most fingerprints and smudges. This includes around light switches, doorknobs and corners. Have a second bucket of clean water and a clean cloth handy for rinsing the walls as you go.

How to Clean Tough Stains {As Necessary}

3.For any stubborn areas of dirt that you encounter, mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the spots using a soft cloth or nonabrasive pad. An old, soft toothbrush works well for spots on the baseboards. Rinse well with a clean, damp cloth. Here are other things that a toothbrush cleans {as well as your teeth!}.