From Scuffs to Splatters: How to Clean Your Walls Like a Pro!
When we talk about cleaning your home, walls don’t usually make the top of the list. They're often overlooked, seen as a "once in a while" job rather than part of a regular routine. But trust us—when you do clean them, it's worth doing it right.
Know Your Paint Before You Clean
Before diving in with spray bottles and cloths, it’s crucial to know what kind of paint you're working with. Why? Because the type of paint determines how aggressive you can get with your cleaning techniques.
There are four common types of paint finishes:
- Matte
- Eggshell
- Semi-gloss
- Gloss
Matte and eggshell are more delicate and prone to showing marks from cleaning, while semi-gloss and gloss finishes—commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms—are more durable and easier to wipe down.
Always test your cleaning method in an inconspicuous spot first. Trust us—you don’t want to end up with a permanent blotch on your wall.
Spot Cleaning: The Everyday Hero
Most wall cleaning you’ll do will fall under spot cleaning. Think: fingerprints, smudges, and the occasional scuff from a flying shoe or wayward backpack.
Here’s a go-to method:
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Use a simple all-purpose cleaner (you can check out our recipe below the video).
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For greasy spots (hello, kitchen walls), sprinkle a bit of cornstarch on the area. Let it sit, then gently scrape it off with a dull edge and wipe clean.
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For scuff marks, sprinkle baking soda on a damp microfiber cloth with all-purpose cleaner, and gently buff the mark out.
When a Full-Wall Clean Makes Sense
While walls don’t usually collect much dust or dirt, there are times when a full clean is smart—like before painting or when moving into a new space. Here’s how we tackle it:
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Start with a dry microfiber mop, using a “W” motion from top to bottom and left to right. This lifts dust without scratching.
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Mix your cleaning solution:
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1 gallon of warm water
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1 tablespoon of dish soap
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1 cup of white vinegar
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Dip your mop pad, wring it out very well, and clean the wall in sections using the same W pattern.
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Always finish with a dry towel or mop pad to remove any remaining moisture.
Bathroom Walls: The “Surprise” Zone
Let’s talk bathrooms—specifically, around the toilet. It’s not glamorous, but it's real. If you spot mysterious splatters (and you will, if you tilt your head and check from an angle), here’s your game plan:
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Use an enzyme cleaner to break down organic splatters.
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Spray the wall, baseboards, and area around the toilet.
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Let it sit, then wipe it all down.
This approach doesn’t just clean—it helps neutralize odors too. Your nose will thank you.
Grease Happens: Kitchen Wall Edition
Your kitchen walls are sneakily some of the dirtiest. Grease, sauce, and splatters can easily build up, especially near the cooktop.
Use the same cornstarch trick for oily spots, or go for an enzyme cleaner if the stains are a bit more stubborn. As always—test your paint first!
A quick visual inspection after meals helps stay on top of buildup. Just like stains on clothing, the longer marks sit, the harder they are to remove.
Final Thoughts (and a Quick Paint Chat)
Wall cleaning might not be glamorous, but it’s a small thing that makes a big difference. Whether you're prepping for a paint job, keeping the bathroom fresh, or just knocking off some daily grime, a little know-how goes a long way.
If you’re curious about comprehensive floor cleaning, check out this article which also covers 3 DIY Floor Cleaners.
Happy cleaning!