Before you clean your wall, you should know the type of surface that you are dealing with. There two main types of paints, namely, water-based and oil paints and each require a variation in cleaning. Wall paper is also different as you need to be careful in case you destroy it altogether. The other alternative is to use a professional cleaning service when it proves too much for you. You will find that there are a few basic steps to be followed including dusting and spot-cleaning followed by a simple rinse and dry procedure.
Start by dusting the wall because it enables you to get rid of dust and any loose dirt which can become smudgy if exposed to moisture. The options you have include the use of a soft brush that is mounted to a vacuum cleaner. Apply light pressure when vacuuming. Otherwise a broom rapped under a rag will do the job if its bristles are too strong. A dry sponge will come in handy where there is dried dirt.
Cleaning Wallpaper
In most cases, the best option for cleaning wall paper is by using professional cleaning services. If you prefer the DIY approach, you should start by dusting and then cleaning any stains.
One way of cleaning wallpaper involves the use of paste derived from a mixture of talcum or corn flour with water. Daub it on the stain. Once it dries up, you can brush it off. If the marks or stains prove difficult to remove, the option to use toothpaste or a mix of water and baking soda is also there.
Children love to play with crayons and they may leave marks on the wallpaper. You can remove the marks by using a plastic scoop, knife or spoon followed by rubbing with an eraser.
Spot Cleaning Your Wall
Prior to washing your wall, it is recommended you should work on the marks and stains. Firstly, it is essential to test clean a small area that is unnoticeable. This is necessary where there is wall paper or water-based paint on the wall. You can use lavender oil mixed with warm water at a ratio of 19:1. In addition water and baking soda mixed into a paste can also be used to remove wall stains. On application, all you need to do is to wipe dry with a clean cloth. Grease stains can also be removed using soapy water. However, the amount of soap used should be very little to avoid leaving the wall surface sticky and susceptible to grime. The technique required in washing walls involves starting at the base and working upwards to minimize streaking.
Cleaning Varnished Wooden Walls
Use a duster to remove the loose surface of dust along with mildly soapy water. Wipe to dry with a soft cloth.
Cleaning Cork-tiled Walls
Cork-tiled walls are relatively easy to clean. Use lukewarm water and a soft cloth then leave to dry. For stains, use a mix of water at the ratio of 10:1 water and methylated spirit along with a soft cloth to wipe.