None of us mind a spot of cleaning around the house – but have you noticed how often you ignore the walls? When they’re freshly painted, we all understand what a huge difference it makes in how fresh and inviting your home feels. So: How to clean walls the easiest possible way? Read on:
From fingerprints to scuff-marks, dust to stains and beyond, walls really do accumulate grime and permanent marks over time. Is there good news? Well, getting them cleaner than ever – just like freshly-painted – doesn’t have to be a chore or an impossible task. With the right techniques and tools, you can restore your walls to their original glory all by yourself. This exclusive guide will show you how to clean walls effectively and safely – no matter the material or finish.
Why cleaning walls matters
Walls – they set the tone for every room. However: they’re also magnets for dirt, marks, grime, and more. It could be:
- Smudges in high-traffic areas
- Kitchen grease
- General dust buildup.
No matter which one, or something else entirely, dirty walls can dull the appearance of your otherwise perfect home. Regular wall cleaning not only improves aesthetics – it also helps maintain a healthy living environment by reducing allergens and bacteria.
And let’s face it: walls are one of the first things guests notice. That’s exactly why keeping them clean can make a big impression.
DIY or professional?
While many homeowners like you can tackle basic wall cleaning tasks on their own, professional Brisbane cleaners like GMA Cleaning Solutions have the expertise and tools to handle more complex situations.
For:
- Stubborn stains
- Delicate wallpaper
- Or painted surfaces that need extra care, professionals know exactly what to clean walls with to avoid damage while achieving flawless results.
How to wash walls, exactly? First, think about whether you’re ready to tackle this task all by yourself. Feel confident? Let’s dive into the steps for how to clean walls in a house with ease.
Step-by-step: The best way to clean walls
1. Start with a dust-free surface
Before you can wash or scrub, you’ll want to remove loose dust and cobwebs.
Use a duster or microfibre cloth: A microfibre mop with an extendable handle is ideal for reaching high corners.
Vacuum with a brush attachment: Gently vacuum walls to lift dust without scratching.
This step ensures that dirt won’t smear or spread when you start washing.
2. Test a small area first
Different wall finishes react differently to cleaning solutions, so always test in an inconspicuous spot.
- Dampen a sponge or cloth with your chosen solution and wipe a small patch
- Let it dry to ensure there’s no discoloration or damage before proceeding
- The best way to clean walls starts with the right solution, including the few following options.
- Warm water & dish soap: A mild solution that’s safe for most painted walls.
- Vinegar & water: Ideal for tackling grease or odour.
- Commercial wall cleaner: Check the label to ensure it’s compatible with your wall type.
4. Use the right tools
The tools you use make all the difference:
Soft sponges or microfibre cloths: Gentle on walls and effective at picking up dirt.
Buckets: Use one for the cleaning solution and one for clean water to rinse.
Wall cleaner mop: A flat mop with a microfibre head can speed up the process, especially for large walls.
5. Clean from top to bottom
Always work from the top of the wall downward – to avoid streaks and drips.
- Start with small, circular motions to lift dirt
- Rinse your cloth or sponge frequently in clean water to avoid spreading grime
- For particularly dirty areas, like around light switches or doorways, spend extra time scrubbing gently.
6. Handle stains with care
For really stubborn stains, you’ll need to be more targeted:
- Use a damp melamine sponge (like a Magic Eraser) to buff out marks without damaging paint
- Vinegar or a degreasing cleaner works wonders in kitchens
- Baking soda paste can lift these marks but test it first on your surface.
7. Rinse and dry
Once the walls are clean, it’s important to rinse and dry them to avoid watermarks or streaks.
- Use a fresh, damp cloth to wipe down the walls and remove any cleaning residue
- Finish with a dry microfibre towel or let the walls air dry.
- If you’re wondering what to clean walls with, it depends on your wall material, including:
- Painted walls: Mild soap and water are usually safe, but avoid harsh chemicals.
- Textured walls: Use a soft brush to gently scrub between grooves.
- Wallpaper: Check if it’s washable. Use a damp sponge and a delicate touch.
- Tile walls: A vinegar solution works well for tackling soap scum or grime.
When to call a professional
Some wall-cleaning situations are better handled when you hire a cleaner, like:
Heavy stains or mould: If mould or mildew is present, professional cleaners have the right solutions and equipment to safely remove it.
Delicate finishes: Expensive wallpaper or specialty paint may require professional-grade cleaners to avoid damage.
High ceilings or large areas: For homes with expansive walls or hard-to-reach spots, a professional service can save you time and effort.
Here at GMA Cleaning Solutions, we use the most advanced techniques and state-of-the-art tools to ensure spotless, streak-free walls that look as good as new.
Tips for maintaining clean walls
To keep your walls looking their best, follow these tips:
1. Dust regularly
Use a microfibre duster weekly to prevent buildup.
2. Address stains quickly
Tackle spills or smudges as soon as they appear.
3. Avoid abrasive scrubbing
Stick to soft sponges or cloths to protect the finish.
4. Use door stops & guards
Prevent furniture and doors from marking your walls.
How to clean walls easily
Cleaning walls so that they look freshly-painted doesn’t have to be an overwhelming and stressful task. With the right tools, techniques, and solutions, you can refresh your walls and brighten up your home. So – whether you’re dealing with minor smudges or more significant stains, following the exclusive steps we’ve laid out will pretty much ensure you know how to clean walls like a pro.
However, for those tougher jobs, GMA Cleaning Solutions is always just around the corner to help. Our friendly team of experienced cleaners knows the best way to clean walls without damaging your surfaces – leaving your home looking spotless, like a display home.
Get in touch with GMA Cleaning Solutions today for expert advice, or professional wall-cleaning services – or to book a comprehensive Brisbane house cleaning package.
