The Easy Way To Clean Any Dirty Wall In Your Home

Fingerprints, smudges, dirt, food, and other yucky stuff all ends up on our walls over time. They can get really nasty, and if you haven’t cleaned yours in a while, you can guarantee that you’ll notice a difference when you do. Sometimes it’s a spot next to the place where you put your shoes on, or an area in the kid’s play room, but everyone has a place in their home that is prone to this type of mess. Cleaning dirty walls is one of those jobs that can be hard to manage, and the proper tool or technique is not always clear in every case.

Many traditional sprays and wipes will eliminate dirt on the walls in your home, but they may also remove the paint if you’re not careful. Other options may be safe in comparison, but they may also do nothing at all to clean the dirt. It seems like if a product works, it might just work too well for this job, and if that’s not the case, it may end up being completely useless for the job. If you stick with traditional cleaning methods may end up skipping the job out of fear, or ending up with mediocre results due to the product or technique you chose for the job.

Our walls are always visible, so it can really make a real impact if you have nice clean walls, free of dirt and grime. The reverse is also true, so dark and dirty walls will also give an instant impression, but not in a good way. When walls are clean, the whole room starts to look better right away, and it will seem brighter and less cluttered just by wiping the walls clean of any dirt, grime or build-up.

How To Clean Any Wall

Cleaning dirty walls effectively requires the right approach to ensure you remove dirt, stains, and grime without damaging the paint or wall surface. Here’s a thorough guide on the most effective ways to clean dirty walls:

Tools and Materials Needed:

• Soft Bristle Brush or Broom: Use a soft-bristled brush or a clean broom to gently sweep away loose dust and cobwebs from the walls. This step prevents debris from spreading while cleaning.
• Cleaning Cloths or Sponges: Specialized cleaning cloths are ideal for wiping down walls as they are soft, absorbent, and non-abrasive. Alternatively, a clean sponge can also be used for washing walls.
• Mild Detergent or Wall Cleaner: Prepare a cleaning solution using mild dish detergent or a specific wall cleaner diluted in warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage paint or wallpaper.
• Bucket: Use a bucket to mix your cleaning solution and to rinse out your cloth or sponge as needed during the cleaning process.
• Rubber Gloves: Protect your hands with rubber gloves, especially if you have sensitive skin or if you’re using cleaning solutions.

Steps to Clean Dirty Walls:

1. Prepare the Area: Remove any furniture or decorations near the walls to prevent them from getting wet or damaged during cleaning. Cover electrical outlets and switches with tape to prevent moisture from entering.
2. Dust the Walls: Start by gently dusting the walls using a soft-bristled brush or broom. This removes cobwebs, dust, and loose dirt. Work from top to bottom to prevent debris from falling onto clean areas.
3. Spot Test (if necessary): Before proceeding with cleaning, spot test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the wall to ensure it does not cause damage or discoloration.
4. Clean the Walls: Dip a microfiber cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and wring out excess water. Begin cleaning the walls in sections, starting from the top and working your way down. Use gentle, circular motions to lift dirt and stains without scrubbing too hard.
5. Focus on Stains: For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of undiluted cleaner directly to the stain and gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush or sponge. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers that can scratch or damage the wall surface.
6. Rinse and Wipe: Rinse your cloth or sponge frequently in clean water to remove dirt and cleaning solution residue. Change the water in your bucket as needed to prevent reapplying dirt to the walls.
7. Dry the Walls: Once cleaned, use a dry microfiber cloth or clean towel to dry the walls thoroughly. This helps prevent streaks and water spots from forming as the walls air dry.
8. Inspect and Touch Up: After the walls are dry, inspect them for any missed spots or streaks. Touch up as needed using a clean, damp cloth or sponge.
9. Ventilate the Room: Open windows and doors or use a fan to ventilate the room and help dry the walls faster. Proper ventilation also helps remove any lingering cleaning solution odors.
10. Replace Furniture and Decorations: Once the walls are completely dry and the room is ventilated, replace furniture and decorations in their original positions.

Additional Wall Cleaning Tips:

• Regular Maintenance: To keep walls clean, dust them regularly and promptly spot clean spills or splatters.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to mild cleaning solutions and avoid using bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners on painted or wallpapered walls.
• Protective Measures: Consider applying a protective finish or washable paint to walls in high-traffic or prone-to-staining areas to facilitate easier cleaning.

By following these steps and using the right tools and materials, you can effectively clean dirty walls without causing damage and maintain a fresh, tidy living space.

What Causes Walls To Get Dirty

Walls can accumulate dirt and grime from various sources, depending on the environment and activities within the space. Here are some common causes of dirty walls:

• Dust and Airborne Particles: Dust is one of the primary culprits of dirty walls. It consists of fine particles of dirt, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne substances that settle on surfaces over time.
• Cooking Grease and Splatters: In kitchens, walls near stoves and cooking areas can accumulate grease, oil splatters, and food residue. These substances can adhere to the wall surface and attract dust and dirt.
• Handprints and Fingerprints: High-traffic areas and walls near doorways or stairwells often accumulate handprints, fingerprints, and smudges from regular contact. This is especially common in homes with children or pets.
• Moisture and Humidity: Moisture in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and areas prone to high humidity can cause mold, mildew, and water stains to develop on walls. These not only look unsightly but can also be harmful to health.
• Pets: Pets can leave marks, stains, and odors on walls through rubbing, scratching, or accidents. This is particularly noticeable around pet entrances and areas where pets frequently roam.
• Ink and Marker Stains: In households with children or in offices, ink, marker, or crayon stains may appear on walls, especially in playrooms, classrooms, or workspaces.
• Environmental Factors: Outdoor pollutants, such as dirt, pollen, and pollutants carried by wind, can enter through windows or doors and settle on interior walls.
• Neglect or Lack of Cleaning: Over time, walls can become dirty simply due to neglect or infrequent cleaning routines. Regular maintenance is crucial to preventing the buildup of dirt and grime.

Understanding these common causes can help you implement effective cleaning routines and preventive measures to keep your walls looking clean and well-maintained.

The Different Types of Walls and How To Clean Them

There are several common wall surfaces found in homes and buildings, each requiring specific cleaning methods to preserve their appearance and integrity. Here’s a rundown of some typical wall surfaces and considerations for cleaning them effectively:

1. Painted Walls

Painted walls are among the most common in residential and commercial spaces. They can be painted with various types of paint finishes, such as flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss. Here’s how to clean them:

• Regular Cleaning: Dust painted walls regularly using a soft microfiber cloth or a soft-bristled brush to remove surface dust and cobwebs.
• Spot Cleaning: For light stains or marks, use a mild detergent solution (dish soap diluted in water) and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes that can damage the paint finish.
• Deep Cleaning: For more stubborn stains, gently scrub with a sponge or cloth soaked in the detergent solution. Rinse with clean water and dry immediately to prevent streaks.

2. Wallpapered Walls

Wallpaper adds texture and pattern to walls but requires careful cleaning to avoid damage. There are different types of wallpaper, including vinyl, fabric-backed, and traditional paper. Here’s how to clean them:

• Dust Regularly: Use a soft brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner or a microfiber cloth to remove dust from wallpapered walls.
• Spot Cleaning: For small stains, gently dab with a clean cloth dipped in a mild detergent solution. Avoid scrubbing vigorously to prevent tearing or lifting of the wallpaper.
• Avoid Excess Moisture: Limit the use of water and moisture when cleaning wallpaper, as excessive dampness can cause the wallpaper to peel or warp.

3. Tile Walls (e.g., Bathroom or Kitchen)

Tile walls are commonly found in bathrooms and kitchens for their durability and moisture resistance. They can be ceramic, porcelain, glass, or natural stone. Here’s how to clean them:

• Regular Maintenance: Wipe down tile walls regularly with a damp microfiber cloth to remove soap scum, water spots, and mildew.
• Cleaning Solutions: Use a mild detergent solution, vinegar and water mixture, or a specialized tile cleaner to remove stubborn stains or soap residue.
• Grout Cleaning: Clean grout lines using a toothbrush or grout brush with a mixture of baking soda and water or a commercial grout cleaner. Rinse thoroughly and dry to prevent mold growth.

4. Wood Paneling

Wood paneling adds warmth and texture to interiors but requires specific care to maintain its finish. Here’s how to clean wood paneling:

• Dust Regularly: Dust wood paneling with a microfiber cloth or soft brush to remove surface dust and debris.
• Wood Cleaner: Use a wood cleaner suitable for the type of wood paneling to remove fingerprints, smudges, and light stains. Apply with a soft cloth in the direction of the wood grain.
• Polishing: Occasionally polish wood paneling with a wood polish or wax to restore shine and protect the finish. Follow manufacturer instructions for application.

5. Concrete or Brick Walls

In industrial or modern-style homes, concrete or exposed brick walls are popular for their raw, textured appearance. Here’s how to clean them:

• Dust Removal: Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and cobwebs from concrete or brick walls.
• Cleaning Solution: Use a solution of mild detergent or specially formulated cleaner for concrete or masonry. Apply with a soft brush or sponge, scrubbing gently to remove stains or dirt buildup.
• Rinse and Dry: Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove cleaning residue. Use a clean, dry cloth or towel to dry the surface.

General Tips for All Wall Surfaces

• Protective Measures: Before cleaning, protect adjacent surfaces, outlets, and switches with tape or plastic sheeting to prevent damage from moisture or cleaning solutions.
• Test First: Always spot test cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous area to ensure they do not damage or discolor the wall surface.
• Ventilation: Properly ventilate the room during and after cleaning to help walls dry quickly and prevent mold or mildew growth.

By understanding the type of wall surface and employing appropriate cleaning techniques and products, you can effectively maintain cleanliness and preserve the appearance of your walls for years to come.

Cleaning Stubborn Dirt and Wall Stains

Cleaning stubborn dirt or set-in stains on walls requires a bit more effort and specific techniques depending on the type of wall surface. Here’s how to tackle them effectively:

For Painted Walls

1. Preparation: Before cleaning, ensure the area is well-ventilated. Protect surrounding surfaces and floors with drop cloths or plastic sheeting.
2. Cleaning Solution: Prepare a stronger cleaning solution using warm water and a mild detergent or dish soap. Alternatively, you can use a specialized wall cleaner formulated for painted surfaces.
3. Spot Test: Always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area to ensure the cleaning solution does not damage the paint finish.
4. Application: Apply the cleaning solution to the stained area using a sponge or soft cloth. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the dirt or stain.
5. Gentle Scrubbing: Gently scrub the area with a sponge, soft-bristled brush, or magic eraser, focusing on the stubborn spots. Avoid scrubbing too vigorously to prevent damaging the paint.
6. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the area with clean water using a separate sponge or cloth. Immediately dry the cleaned area with a clean, dry towel to prevent streaks or water spots.
7. Repeat if Necessary: For particularly stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process or use a slightly stronger cleaning solution. Always rinse and dry thoroughly between applications.

For Wallpapered Walls

1. Dust Removal: Begin by dusting the wallpapered walls using a soft brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner or a microfiber cloth.
2. Cleaning Solution: Mix a small amount of mild detergent or wallpaper cleaner with warm water. Avoid using excessive water as it can damage wallpaper.
3. Spot Cleaning: Dampen a sponge or cloth with the cleaning solution and gently dab at the stain. Avoid rubbing vigorously to prevent damaging or lifting the wallpaper.
4. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the cleaned area with clean water using a separate sponge or cloth. Immediately dry the wallpaper with a clean, dry towel or cloth.
5. Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Do not use abrasive cleaners, bleach, or ammonia-based products on wallpaper, as they can damage the wallpaper surface.

For Tile, Concrete, or Brick Walls

1. Preparation: Protect surrounding surfaces and floors as needed. Ensure the area is well-ventilated.
2. Cleaning Solution: Use a specialized cleaner for the specific wall surface (e.g., tile cleaner, concrete cleaner). Alternatively, create a paste of baking soda and water for scrubbing stains on concrete or brick.
3. Application: Apply the cleaning solution or paste to the stained area. Allow it to sit for several minutes to loosen the dirt or stain.
4. Scrubbing: Use a stiff-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the stain gently. For tile walls, pay attention to grout lines, as they may require extra scrubbing.
5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the cleaned area thoroughly with clean water. Dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth or towel to prevent water spots.
6. Repeat as Needed: For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or use a stronger cleaner. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.

General Tips:

• Patience: Stubborn stains may require multiple attempts to completely remove. Avoid rushing the process to prevent damage to the wall surface.
• Protective Gear: Use rubber gloves to protect your hands from cleaning solutions, especially stronger ones.
• Professional Help: If stains persist despite your efforts or if you are unsure about cleaning certain wall surfaces, consider consulting a professional cleaner or painter.

By using the appropriate cleaning techniques and products tailored to the specific wall surface, you can effectively tackle stubborn dirt and set-in stains while preserving the integrity and appearance of your walls.

An Easy and Effective Way To Clean Any Wall

So what is the easier way to clean walls of this dirt? A multipurpose microfiber cloth.  This is not only an effective tool, but it also allows you to clean without chemicals. It is the green way to clean those nasty smudges and marks quickly and easily. No sprays or chemicals are needed, just a high quality cloth and ordinary tap water. You’ll be able to wipe your walls clean in minutes, and with very little effort.

This unique cloth practically does the job for you as it skims the surface of your walls, lifting off dirt, and locking it in the fibers. Fingerprints, smudges, dirt, and more will be removed with ease. Once your walls are clean, you can continue on, using the same cloth to clean and polish furniture, dust shelves, clean windows and mirrors and more. Each surface will be left extremely clean, streak free and polished. All of the dirt will loosen and lift off the surface, but you’ll never introduce enough moisture, abrasiveness, or harsh chemicals to do any damage.

Where To Use One:

Any type of wall is safe to clean with one of our high quality microfiber cleaning cloths. It could be stained, painted, tiled, plastered, wall papered or anything else. You can wipe down regular walls made from drywall in your living room, tiled walls in your bathroom, walls with metal accents in your kitchen, even get wood trim, wood doors, metal appliances, mirrors and other similar surfaces nearby as you work. You can use these powerful cleaning cloths on any material to quickly wipe away dust, dirt, grease, oil, smudges and other grime with a single pass. They do a better job that most sprays combined with paper towels, and they cost a whole lot less too. You also will spend less time doing the work, but you will also have better looking walls in the process.

Use it dry for light dusting of surface cleaning. Get it damp to remove stuck on dirt and grime. Or combine with a safe and effective cleaner to eliminate stains, and other tough dirt spots.

How To Use One:

This technique is great for dingy build up and everyday grime on your walls. If you have some really dirty walls, marks from pens and pencils, or unusually stubborn build up, then continue to the more hard core method that follows. To make gray walls white again, or to remove dirty hand prints left by your children, simply use the east steps directly below.

1. Quality is important. All microfiber is not created equal, and the cheap stuff does not clean as well as higher quality material does. Our cloths are feature superior material at a super low price and we guarantee performance.
2. To prepare, simply get the cloth wet under warm water, and then wring it out until it is just damp.
3. Fold the large cloth into quarters to provide a plush cleaning pad, but also to create hidden layers of clean surface that you can switch to as you clean.
4. To clean any wall, wipe the dirty surface to remove dirt and thoroughly wash.
5. You can rinse dirt out, or re-fold your cloth as you work to replenish the cloth.
6. When wiping, use one continuous motion in the same direction. Work from top to bottom and side to side, or from the outside in to ensure total coverage.
7. A single pass with these powerful cloths should remove most common grime. Repeat if necessary for extra layers of dirt.
8. Once you’re all done, just throw the reusable cloth into the wash to be laundered. These great cloths can be washed hundreds of times before they need to be replaced, so it is also a very economical solution to your dirt as well.

How To Remove Stubborn Dirt And Tough Stains

If you have extra dirty walls, or some crusty, gooey or stainy stuff that a regular cloth won’t take off, all you need to do is give it a little help. With this technique, you’ll be able to remove the regular stuff like dirt and fingerprints from your walls, but you’ll also be able to take of pencil, ball point pen, colorful food, crayon and all kinds of other stuff too. It’s still safe for any surface, and you will not run any risk of damage, but you will pretty much guarantee to have clean walls when you finish.

1. Depending upon the type of stain on your wall, you’ll want to use a heavy solution Quick N Brite spray or the cleaner full strength.
2. For most heavy applications, a little bit of heavy solution spray will do the trick. For really stubborn stuff like pen ink, applying the paste directly will probably work the best.
3. Completely cover the stained area with Quick n Brite and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
4. If applying paste. scratch or use non abrasive sponge to work in and loosen stain.
5. Get your microfiber cloth damp with warm water, and wring out.
6. To clean, wipe completely and apply more pressure over the worst areas. Light scrubbing with a sponge may help to loosen anything that is extra stuck.
7. Scrubbing is only needed in rare cases as letting the cleaner sit usually does that work for you.
8. If any color or dirt still remains, reapply the quick n brite, let it sit a little bit longer, and then wipe the wall with a freshly rinsed and dampened cloth.

At simplygoodstuff.com, we carry the highest quality microfiber products available. This means that they will clean better, and last longer than similar products on the market sold elsewhere. When no microfiber can cut it alone, we also carry a safe and superior solution to give it a little help without introducing harsh chemicals or risking any surface in your home. Quickly get your walls clean and remove any type of dirt with one of these techniques.

For more in depth look at cleaning crayon off your walls use the link to read more. If you have a specific type of wall, or a specific type of dirt not covered here, leave your question below and we would be happy to help. If you now have white walls instead of brown ones, and you want to let everyone know how easy it was, make it public by using the comments box below.

Keep Walls Clean Longer

Products Mentioned

• Multipurpose Microfiber Cloth
• All Microfiber
• Green Cleaning Supplies
• Quick N Brite Cleaner