How to remove stains from walls without removing paint

Over time, the walls in our house will require cleaning or a touch-up to restore its pristine appearance while removing any dirt or debris. Regardless of where the marks or smudges on your walls originated, it can result in an undesirable appearance especially if you have guests coming over. It is vital to learn techniques on how to get rid of unsightly stains on your wall. Read further to learn techniques on how to remove stains from walls without removing paint.

How to remove stains with soap and water

Once you find unwanted stains or marks on the wall, it is best to start with the simplest technique first. The method only requires warm water, a microfiber cloth and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. 

  • Prepare a solution with a few drops of dishwashing liquid mixed in warm water. 
  • Soak a microfiber cloth into the solution. Wring out the excess to prevent it from getting overly saturated. 
  • With the damp cloth, rub on the stain until fully removed. 
  • Allow the wall to dry and check if there are traces of the stain left. If a trace lingers, repeat the process. 

This technique is a safe approach in getting rid of stains on walls, whether they are painted or not. 

  How to remove bug spray stains

How to remove stains with cleaning erasers

Today, eraser tools can be used to clean the walls which strikingly resemble a sponge. These will surely come in handy for stubborn stains or marks on the wall. With this technique, you only need some water and the cleaning eraser tool.

  • Moisten the cleaning eraser based on the instructions on the packaging.
  • Before working on the mark or stain, spot test on a concealed spot first. Remember that the cleaning erasers can work wonders on stains but they can also damage finishes, especially on wooden surfaces.
  • Once you have determined that the cleaning eraser is safe for your wall, carefully rub on the stain or mark until it vanishes. Avoid scrubbing too hard or it will result in a stain on the wall that is even worse than the original.

How to remove stains with a wall cleaner

If the soap and water method or the cleaning eraser were not effective in cleaning stains on the walls, it might be time to use a wall cleaner product. You can also opt for an all-purpose cleaner together with a microfiber cloth. Simply follow the dilution steps on the cleaner and perform an initial spot test. 

[crp]

How do you get stains off white walls?

If you have white walls, they are susceptible to dirt, smudges and other types of stains. When cleaning your white walls, the method depends on whether you have oil or latex-based paint. 

  • Latex paint. Before cleaning the walls, use a broom to wipe the walls from top to bottom. Prepare a solution of warm water and a mild all-purpose cleaner. Immerse a sponge into the solution and run it along the walls to get rid of any debris, dirt, and fingerprints. Once the walls are thoroughly clean, wipe down the walls with clean water to rinse them. 
  • Oil-based paint. With a broom, wipe down the walls from top to bottom. Prepare a mixture by mixing a teaspoon of dish detergent into a quart of warm water along with a quarter cup of vinegar. Using a rag or sponge, wipe this solution on the walls to remove dirt, grime, dust, and fingerprints. In case there are stubborn stains especially grease, use a degreaser. Rinse the walls after using a sponge with clean water. 
  How to remove tough stains from fiberglass tub

Can Magic Eraser be used on painted walls?

Among the cleaning tools in the market, the Magic Eraser is considered as one of the most useful. If properly used, a Magic Eraser can make cleaning an easy and fast task than any other cleaning tool.  

When cleaning painted walls, it is not recommended to use a Magic Eraser since it can potentially wear away the paint especially if rubbed on the site vigorously. 

Magic Erasers are typically made from melamine foam which functions as very fine sandpaper. It is suitable for cleaning stubborn marks and stains but capable of scratching certain surfaces and removing protective finishes, especially on painted walls. 

Can you use bleach on white walls?

Household bleach which is the common name for sodium hypochlorite or chlorine bleach works as a potent cleaning agent that is widely used in removing stubborn stains, eliminating mold and maintaining white fabrics. Furthermore, household bleach possesses certain benefits for interior wall cleaning, as long as it is utilized correctly and safely. 

When white walls are covered with active mold or mildew, bleach is a cleaner of choice. The chemicals present in household bleach not only clean the moldy surfaces but also disinfect the surface to prevent a recurrence. 

If you are going to use bleach to clean white walls, do not apply the full-strength. It should be diluted based on the amount of dirt and contamination. Remember not to apply more than 1-part bleach to 3-parts water. 

Let’s wrap it up

Walls require regular care and maintenance to ensure that they are clean and free from unwanted stains or marks. With the different techniques discussed on how to remove stains from walls without removing paint, you can preserve the pristine and clean appearance of your walls. 

  How to remove charcoal stains from carpet

Recent Posts