Introduction
Cleaning walls may not be an exciting task, but it is one that is essential for the overall appearance and cleanliness of a room. Over time, walls can accumulate dirt, dust, and even stains that can detract from the look of a room. However, with a variety of cleaning methods available, it doesn’t have to be a difficult chore. In this article, we will explore various ways to clean walls using natural and traditional methods, as well as preventative measures to minimize the need for excessive cleaning.
The all-purpose cleaner
An all-purpose cleaner created with natural ingredients can be an effective and eco-friendly way to clean walls. To make it, mix together one part white vinegar, one part water, and a few drops of essential oil (optional). This solution can be used to clean walls made of any material, including painted and wallpapered surfaces. Simply pour the solution into a spray bottle and apply to the walls. Use a microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe the walls, starting from the top and working down. Rinse with clean water and dry with a towel or let air-dry.
Baking soda and vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are two powerful cleaning agents that can work magic on stubborn stains and marks on walls. To use this mixture, begin by mixing equal parts of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a sponge or cloth dipped in a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar to scrub the area gently. Wipe the wall with a clean, damp cloth afterward to remove any residue. This method is particularly useful for removing crayon and marker stains from walls.
Traditional soap and water
Traditional soap and water can do wonders for cleaning walls as well. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water and apply it to a microfiber cloth or sponge. Wipe the walls in a circular motion, working from the top to the bottom. Be sure to rinse the sponge or cloth frequently and change the water when it becomes dirty. Once you’ve gone over the entire surface, use a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining soap suds, and dry the wall with a towel or let it air-dry.
Use a vacuum
For dry, dusty walls, a vacuum cleaner can be a helpful tool. Use the brush attachment to gently go over walls and dust away any dirt and cobwebs from corners before wet cleaning. Be sure to move furniture away from the walls so that you can clean them thoroughly. During this process, always inspect any scuff marks or stains on the walls, which can indicate the need for more targeted deep cleaning later on.
Magic erasers
Magic erasers are a popular tool used to clean walls because of their effectiveness in removing scuff marks and stains. To use a magic eraser, dampen it with water and gently scrub the stained area, starting from the top and working down. Be sure to test a small area first to ensure that the eraser does not cause damage to the wall’s surface. If you see spot damage, stop and go back to a gentler cleaning method to avoid creating worse damage.
Steam cleaning
Steam cleaning is an excellent method to clean up dirt and germs from walls and sanitize them. Steam cleaning machines are available for purchase or can be rented, and they use water vapor to clean surfaces. Begin by using the machine’s attachment to clean all of the walls. Make sure you are careful around electrical outlets and avoid dwelling on any one area for too long to prevent ruining the wall surface. Once you’ve finished going over the entire surface, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the wall again
Preventative measures
There are several preventative measures that can be taken to keep walls clean and reduce the need for deep cleaning as much in the future. First, avoid hanging anything on the wall that might leave behind residue or other stains that are difficult to get out. Use floor runners or protective mats to prevent dirt, dust, and debris from being tracked onto the walls. Last but not least, avoid putting off cleaning since stains and marks can get harder to remove the longer they are left in place. Cover the furniture with sheets when moving it to avoid damaging walls with hard edges of furniture, especially while moving out or into new apartments.
Conclusion
Keeping your walls clean doesn’t have to be a challenging chore. From natural solutions to traditional methods and preventative measures, there is a variety of methods to choose from depending on the job. With a little bit of elbow grease and some simple household ingredients, your walls can look like new again. Keep these tips in mind to keep your home looking its best.
