Washing Painted Walls

When washing painting walls semi-gloss or gloss enamels are easier to clean than is flat sheened paint.

Always, first, use a cleaning solution in a hidden area.  After it dries, check to see if the color and sheen look the same.

Wash or spot clean most painted surfaces with a solution of water and mild detergent (such as hand dishwashing liquid), or a mild commercial household cleaner, that says on the label is safe for painted surfaces.

Rinse off thoroughly with clear water. If walls are very dirty, use a stronger alkali solution such as 2 tablespoons ammonia or tablespoon trisodium phosphate or 2 tablespoons laundry detergent powder in 1 gallon warm (not hot) water. Stronger solutions remove some of the paint. Always rinse off. Gloss or semi-gloss enamels are less likely to be damaged by cleaning than is flat latex paint. Test cleaning solution in an inconspicuous corner first; if the wall color and finish look the same--but cleaner--go ahead and use.

Washing Procedure

1. Before washing, dust or vacuum walls to remove loose soil.
2. Use one bucket for washing solution and one for rinsing, and a large cellulose sponge for each bucket.
3. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
4. Start washing at the bottom and work up, so the cleaning solution does not run down the dirty wall and cause streaks that are hard to remove.
5. Rub gently to avoid damage to the paint.
6. Wash and rinse one area; then do the next overlapping area.
7. After doing several areas, dry off excess moisture with soft absorbent cloths or towels, which can be laundered and reused.