The best way to make your space seem larger, brighter, and cleaner is to use white walls. White walls can get stained easily from small children’s fingerprints or scuffs.
It’s hard to keep a home fresh and clean when its walls show signs of wear. There are many methods to bring your walls back to life. White walls can also be cleaned with common household products such as dish soap, baking soda and water. The paste can then be applied to the wall with a sponge and wiped off. Commercial products like Magic Erasers or all-purpose cleaners can be used to brighten them up.
What you’ll require
- 1 Sponge
- 1 Microfiber towel or microfiber rag
- 1 roll paper towels
- 1 All-purpose cleaner
- 1 Mild dishwashing soap
- 1 Baking soda
- 1 Magic eraser
How to properly clean white walls
- Assemble Your Supplies
Assess the damage and obtain the tools you need. Which problem are you facing? Are you looking at ceiling-to floor dust? Or a few fingerprints?
The type and size of the stain/mark will determine which supplies you will need. A soft sponge or microfiber towel will work well for most stain removal. But, for those with more stubborn stains, a Magic Eraser might be necessary.
- Start from the ceiling and work your way up to the floors
Grab your step ladder, a moist microfiber cloth and an extra cup coffee. When you’re done, check the microfiber. Rinse it and wring out any dirt. There are a few options.
Tip: An extendable arm can reach up to high corners if you’re looking for more precision and craft.
- Spot Method 1. All-Purpose Cleaner
An all-purpose cleaner can be paired with a microfiber cloth, rag or paper towel depending on your preference. An all-purpose cleaner should have a texture that is nice and soapy. Most likely, you’ll use the same cleaner for grease-related problems in your kitchen.
These are best for cleaning sticky messes (e.g., if food or drink has been spilled onto your white wall). You can use the all-purpose cleaner if you spot a stain right away.
- Spot Method 2, Dish Soap and Soft Sponge
You shouldn’t let the name deceive, dish soap can be used to clean all surfaces around your house, including counter tops and carpets. Choose a mild dish detergent that does not contain any heavy fragrances or harsh chemicals.
A soft sponge can be used to clean a stain that’s not quite moving. You can rub the stain until there are suds. After letting it sit, use a microfiber cloth to clean it. The process may need to be repeated two or three more times.
- Spot Method 3 – Baking Paste
Do you have a stubborn spot on your surface that won’t go away? This natural remedy is great for all kinds of stains.
- Take some baking powder and a bowl. Use three cups of water to create a paste. It should have a sticky texture. Adjust your ratio accordingly.
- With a sponge, gently spread the paste on to the wall.
- Allow it to rest – the longer, better.
- Wipe the area with a microfiber cloth, or paper towel after it has been sufficiently saturated.
- Spot Method #4: Magic Eraser
Are you still having trouble? It’s time for the big guns when all else fails. Use a Magic Eraser, get it wet and wipe the stain/scuff gently until the walls are clean. Because Magic Erasers work so well, you won’t need any elbow grease.
Glazed and semi-gloss walls should be avoided. If used aggressively when scrubbing, the Magic Eraser may leave a noticeable ‘dull spot’.
Tips for Keeping Walls Clean Longer
- Spot-clean regularly to prevent stains soaking into the wall
- Vacuum with care to prevent dirt from getting on the walls or floors.