How to Clean Walls Before Painting
Correct cleaning is one of the most important prep steps before any interior repaint. A clean wall helps primer and topcoats bond properly and improves long-term finish quality.
Step 1: Remove dust and loose debris
Start by dry-dusting walls with a microfiber cloth, soft broom, or vacuum brush head. Focus on corners, skirting lines, and above door frames where dust buildup is often missed.
Step 2: Wash with the right cleaner
For standard rooms, use warm water and sugar soap. In kitchens, use a degreasing cleaner to cut cooking oils. In bathrooms, include mould treatment where needed.
Step 3: Rinse and inspect
Wipe down cleaned walls with fresh water to remove cleaner residue. Then inspect for stains, nicotine marks, or water damage that may require stain-blocking primer.
Step 4: Allow full drying before sanding or priming
Do not rush this step. Painting over damp surfaces can cause blistering, reduced adhesion, and patchy finish levels. Increase ventilation to speed consistent drying.
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