Cleaning your walls can be a bit of a nerve-wracking task since nobody likes scrubbing away on a layer of paint or precious wallpaper by accident. Perhaps you’re just finding fingerprints, scuff marks, or that mysterious stain you really want to be rid of.

Regardless of the reason, this guide is here to help effectively clean your walls without risking their finish.

How Do You Know It’s Time to Wash Walls?

Sometimes, it’s pretty apparent when a wall needs cleaning. Smudges, fingerprints, and visible dust or dirt are tell-tale signs. However, even when you can’t see grime, regular cleaning keeps your walls fresh and your room nice.

The general rule of thumb? For moderately used rooms, give the walls a gentle clean every six months, and for less used ones, at least once a year.

How to Clean Different Types of Interior Walls

Different wall finishes and materials take some special approaches to cleaning. Here’s how to handle each type without damaging the paint or wallpaper.

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paint tends to be a bit tougher than other finishes, so you have a little leeway. Beginning with a dry cloth or duster, gently dust the wall to knock off any loose particles. Dip a sponge into a mixture of mild detergent and warm water, then gently wipe down the wall in small, circular motions. Don’t soak the sponge—too much water hurts even the toughest finishes. Then go back and wipe off any soap residue with a clean, damp cloth.

Water-based or Latex Paint

Latex paint, while popular for its ease of clean-up, is a little touchier than oil-based paint. Be gentle with it; dust the wall first. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Dip a microfiber cloth in and go over the wall in light strokes.

For more stubborn stains, dip a sponge in the soapy solution and rub in small circular motions, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Finally, dry the wall with a soft, clean towel.

Vinyl Wallpaper

Vinyl wallpaper is washable and thus very easy to maintain. In order to clean, use a mixture of mild soap in water with just light dampness on the sponge used to lightly wipe the surface.

Warning: Do not scrub; vinyl can handle moisture but still scratches easily. Wipe clean with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap film. Pat dry lightly.

Dry Clean, Non-Washable Wallpaper

Special care should be taken with non-washable wallpaper because water may cause it to tear. For general cleaning, use a dry microfiber or a duster for dust and light dirt removal. If there are marks, try to use a dry sponge–sometimes called a “chemical sponge–that lifts the dirt off without moisture.

Tips to Keep Your Walls Clean All Year Round

Want to avoid frequent cleaning of your walls? Try these easy tricks:

• Dust regularly because dust settles everywhere, including walls. The more frequently you dust, the less deep cleaning you will need to do.
• Spot clean because spills or other marks do need cleaning immediately, but never with an approach that is ever too aggressive; otherwise, you might leave heavy buildup in its aftermath.
• Avoid the use of harsh chemicals. Always go for a mold, pH-neutral one.

Walls Done? Now, Let's Keep Your Home Sparkling!

If the idea of cleaning feels overwhelming, or you’re looking for expert care, CHRIStal Clean is here to make your cleaning tasks easier. Check out our deep cleaning service, and let us give your house a fresh and polished look without the hassle!