It’s no secret that keeping the walls in your home in pristine condition can be challenging. Between dirt, dust, and stains, it seems like there’s always something trying to make your walls look less than their best. But with the right tools and techniques, you can keep your walls looking great for years to come – without spending hours cleaning them.
Here are a few tips to get you started.
1. Use the right tools
When cleaning walls, you’ll want to use a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the surface. Many homeowners also find that an extendable duster can be a helpful tool for reaching high spots.
You may need to break out the big guns if you’re dealing with tough stains. In these cases, a solution of one part bleach and three parts water can be effective. Apply the solution to the stain with a sponge or cloth and then rinse with clean water. Remove any residual moisture with a towel.
You should also have a few supplies to deal with common wall stains, such as crayon marks and grease splatters. For crayon marks, a Magic Eraser can work wonders. You’ll want to keep some baking soda on hand for grease stains to absorb the oil. You can also try a solution of one part dish soap and two parts water.
2. Don’t forget the baseboards
Your walls aren’t the only things that need to be cleaned. The baseboards are often forgotten but can collect just as much dirt and grime.
To clean baseboards, start vacuuming or sweeping them to remove any loose dirt. Then, using a damp microfiber cloth or sponge, wipe them down. For tougher stains, you may need to use a bit of soap and water. Rinse the soap off thoroughly and dry the area to avoid any water damage.
Regularly vacuuming or sweeping the floors can also prevent dirt and dust from building up on baseboards. This will help keep the area around the baseboards clean and simplify your cleaning tasks.
3. Protect your walls from damage
Most walls are pretty tough, but you can still do some things to avoid unnecessary damage.
For example, use the proper nails or hooks when hanging pictures or another wall décor. If you’re unsure what type of hardware to use, ask a professional at your local hardware store.
It would be best if you also were careful when moving furniture around. Try to lift furniture rather than dragging it, and use furniture pads or coasters to avoid scratches. Use felt pads or another soft material to prevent damage when your furniture is touching a wall.
Water damage can also be a problem for walls. Be sure to work with an expert plumbing company to repair any leaks quickly and avoid long-term damage. And if you live in an area prone to flooding, take the proper precautions to protect your home. Some homeowners even install flood barriers to help keep water out.
4. Clean walls regularly
The best way to keep your walls looking their best is to clean them regularly. This will help you avoid build-up and make it easier to deal with stains when they do occur. An excellent way to clean walls is to start at the top and work your way down. This will help you avoid leaving streaks. Be sure to clean any ceiling fans or light fixtures as well.
To make cleaning walls easier, consider investing in a handheld vacuum with an attachment specifically designed for cleaning walls. This can help you remove dust and dirt quickly and easily. Some vacuums even have an attachment for cleaning baseboards.
5. Hire a professional
If you don’t have the time or energy to clean your walls, consider hiring a professional. A professional cleaning company will have the proper tools and supplies to do the job quickly and efficiently. They will also be able to reach high spots that you may not be able to reach on your own.
Hiring a professional is also good if you’re dealing with tough stains or water damage. These types of issues should be handled by a professional to avoid further damage. They can also help you protect your walls from future damage, such as mold and mildew.
Cleaning your walls may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these simple tips, you can keep your walls looking their best. Always be sure to vacuum or sweep them regularly, and don’t forget to clean the baseboards as well.
Be careful when moving furniture around, and take the proper precautions to avoid water damage. If you need help, don’t hesitate to hire a professional. With some care and effort, you can keep your walls looking new.
