We normally dust off our furniture and don't even think of cleaning our walls. Maintaining clean and well-kept walls is crucial for a fresh and inviting home environment. Like floors & pieces of furniture at home, walls do get stained with fingerprints & kids scribbling.
However, cleaning walls can be tricky, as using the wrong techniques or harsh chemicals may damage the paint or wallpaper. To ensure your walls stay pristine, I've gathered expert advice on how to clean walls effectively without causing any harm.
[Photo Credit: Pexels]
Dust Before You Clean
It may be difficult to see the fine dust clinging to walls making your wall look less bright. Before you start remove the artwork, family photographs and small mirrors.
Before you start with any cleaning solution, it's essential to remove loose dust and cobwebs. Use a soft-bristle brush or a clean, dry microfiber cloth to gently dust the walls. This step prevents abrasive particles from scratching the surface during the cleaning process.
Test in an Inconspicuous Area
You must do a patch test to ensure that what you are about to do is not landing you into a different problem.
Different wall finishes and paints react differently to cleaning agents. To avoid any surprises, test your chosen cleaning solution in a small, inconspicuous area first. This will help you ensure that the cleaner doesn't cause discoloration or damage to the paint or wallpaper.
Choose the Right Cleaning Solution
For painted walls, a mild solution of water and a small amount of dish soap is often sufficient. Mix a few drops of dish soap in a bucket of warm water. For wallpapered walls, use a wallpaper-specific cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar. Avoid using abrasive or chemical-laden cleaners, as they can strip the paint or damage the wallpaper.
Use a Soft Cloth or Sponge
When applying the cleaning solution, opt for a soft cloth or sponge. Microfiber cloths are an excellent choice, as they are gentle and effective at lifting dirt without causing scratches. Dip the cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and wring out excess liquid to prevent dripping.
Gentle Wiping Motion
Always wipe the walls in a gentle, circular motion or from top to bottom. Avoid applying excessive pressure, especially on painted surfaces to make it really gentle. Stubborn stains may require a bit more effort, but be patient and refrain from using abrasive scrubbers that can harm the wall finish.
Pay Attention to Details
Take extra care around corners, edges, and areas with high traffic or frequent contact. These areas may require more thorough cleaning due to accumulated oils and dirt. Using a soft toothbrush or cotton swab can help reach into crevices without causing damage.
Dry the Walls Promptly
After cleaning, it's crucial to dry the walls promptly to prevent water damage. Use a clean, dry cloth or towel to remove any remaining moisture. Proper ventilation in the room can also speed up the drying process.
Regular Maintenance
To prevent the need for deep cleaning, incorporate regular maintenance into your cleaning routine. Dust the walls regularly, and address stains or marks promptly. This proactive approach will help maintain the integrity of your walls over time.
Conclusion
Cleaning walls without damaging the paint or wallpaper requires a careful and informed approach. By following these expert tips, you can keep your walls clean and well-maintained while preserving their aesthetic appeal.
Remember to test cleaning solutions, use gentle techniques, and make regular maintenance a part of your cleaning routine for long-lasting, beautiful walls in your home.
You will now breathe fresh & feel better. Make a schedule to clean walls regularly but not as regularly as you do for your home furniture.
You must be logged in to post a comment.