To clean walls before painting, the process generally involves removing dust, dirt, grease, and any mold, then washing the walls with an appropriate cleaning solution, followed by rinsing and drying. Here is a summary of the steps:
- Start by dusting the walls using a dusting brush, cloth, or vacuum to remove cobwebs, dust, and loose dirt.
- If there is mold, treat it with a mild chlorine or sodium hypochlorite solution, let it react, and then rinse off thoroughly.
- Remove any old paint or wallpaper residues; sand glossy surfaces lightly to help paint adhere better.
- For cleaning, use a solution of diluted washing-up liquid (dish soap) and hot water. For greasy walls like kitchens, use a stronger dish soap solution or sugar soap, which effectively cuts through grease and grime.
- Wash the walls from top to bottom, ideally using a circular motion to avoid streaks.
- Rinse the walls with clean water to remove any soap residues.
- Let the walls dry completely before starting to paint.
Additional helpful tips include:
- Wear protective gear when using stronger cleaning agents like sugar soap.
- Fill holes and cracks before cleaning if necessary, then sand smooth.
- For walls with glossy paint, test the cleaning solution first to avoid damage.
- Ensure the room is well ventilated, especially when working with mold treatments.
This thorough cleaning ensures the surface is ready for painting, helping paint adhere better and last longer without imperfections or peeling.
