Alejandra Zelaya

June 9, 2023

How to Clean Matte Painted Walls from Top to Bottom

Written by Theodora Carbel

Last Updated: December 8, 2023

At Fresh Home Cleaning, we understand the importance of maintaining the pristine appearance of your matte paint walls. Matte finishes offer a sleek and elegant aesthetic to any space, but they can be a bit tricky to clean without the risk of damaging the surface.

In this comprehensive guide, we will share our expert insights and provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to clean matte paint walls. By following these tried-and-true methods, you can keep your walls looking flawless while ensuring they remain in top condition for years to come.

Table Of Contents

Understanding Matte Paint
Gather the Necessary Cleaning Supplies
Preparing the Cleaning Solution
Additional Tips for Matte Paint Maintenance
Resources
FAQs
Q1: How do I clean matte paint walls effectively?
Q2: What is the best way to clean walls with flat paint?
Q3: Can I clean walls with a mop?
Q4: Does Fresh Home Cleaning use eco-friendly cleaning products?
Q5: How can I contact Fresh Home Cleaning for their services?
See more cleaning guides

Understanding Matte Paint

Before diving into the cleaning process, let’s briefly explore what matte paint is and why it requires special care. Matte paint, also known as flat paint, lacks the reflective properties found in glossier finishes. This absence of sheen gives matte walls their distinct velvety appearance, but it also makes them more susceptible to visible stains and scuff marks.

Unlike other paint finishes, matte paint cannot be easily wiped down without leaving noticeable streaks or shine. Therefore, it’s crucial to use the appropriate techniques and products to maintain the integrity of the matte surface.

Young woman hanging a painting on her walls

Gather the Necessary Cleaning Supplies

To ensure a successful cleaning session and properly learn how to clean matte paint walls, it’s essential to gather all the necessary supplies beforehand. Here’s a list of items you will need:

Soft microfiber cloths or sponges
Gentle dish soap or specialized matte paint cleaner
Distilled water (avoid tap water to prevent mineral deposits)
Two clean buckets
Non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristle brush
Ladder or step stool (if necessary)

Preparing the Cleaning Solution

Creating a suitable cleaning solution is the next step towards achieving spotless matte paint walls. For this purpose, you can use a gentle dish soap or a specialized matte paint cleaner. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own matte paint cleaner:

Fill one of the clean buckets with warm distilled water.
Add a few drops of the gentle dish soap or the recommended amount of matte paint cleaner.
Gently mix the solution until it forms a uniform mixture.
Testing the Cleaning Solution
Before applying the cleaning solution to the entire wall, it’s crucial to perform a patch test in an inconspicuous area. This test will help ensure that the solution does not adversely affect the paint or cause any discoloration. Apply a small amount of the cleaning solution to the test area using a soft cloth or sponge, and gently blot the surface. After a few minutes, inspect the test spot to ensure there are no adverse reactions. If all looks well, proceed with confidence.

Already Tired of this task? Call an expert

Step-by-Step To Learn How To Clean Walls With Flat Paint

Step 1: Dusting and Dry Cleaning Walls With a Mop

Before delving into the wet cleaning process, it’s important to remove loose dust and dirt from the walls. This step helps prevent smearing or scratching the surface during the subsequent cleaning stages. Follow these guidelines:

Start by taking a clean microfiber cloth or duster and gently sweep it across the wall’s surface. Be sure to reach corners and areas near the baseboards.
Pay extra attention to areas with visible dirt, cobwebs, or loose debris. Use a gentle, upward motion to lift off any particles without pressing too hard against the wall.

Step 2: Wet Cleaning

Now that you’ve removed loose dust and dirt, it’s time to proceed with the wet cleaning process. Follow these steps for a thorough clean:

Dip a soft microfiber cloth or sponge into the prepared cleaning solution. Make sure it’s damp but not soaking wet.
Starting from the top of the wall, gently wipe the surface in a vertical motion. Apply light pressure and avoid excessive scrubbing, which may damage the paint.
Rinse the cloth or sponge in the second clean bucket filled with warm distilled water to remove any accumulated dirt or soap residue.
Wring out the excess water and continue wiping the wall in vertical sections until you’ve covered the entire area.
For stubborn stains or marks, use a non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristle brush. Dip it into the cleaning solution, then gently scrub the affected area in a circular motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure.
Once you’ve cleaned all areas, use a separate clean, damp cloth or sponge to rinse the surface. This step ensures any remaining cleaning solution is removed from the wall.
Allow the walls to air dry naturally. Avoid using fans or hairdryers, as the airflow may cause streaks or uneven drying.

Girl with blue globes cleaning a white wall

Additional Tips for Matte Paint Maintenance

Maintaining the cleanliness and condition of your matte paint walls doesn’t end with the cleaning process. Here are a few additional tips to help you keep them in pristine condition:

Avoid abrasive materials: When cleaning or touching up your matte walls, avoid using abrasive materials such as rough sponges or scouring pads. These can leave visible scratches or marks.
Prevent moisture buildup: Adequate ventilation is crucial for matte paint walls. Ensure proper airflow in the room by opening windows or using fans, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
Handle stains promptly: If you notice a stain on your matte walls, it’s best to address it as soon as possible. Delaying the cleaning process may make it more challenging to remove the stain completely.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Steer clear of harsh cleaning chemicals, solvents, or ammonia-based products, as they can damage the paint’s finish. Stick to gentle cleaning solutions specifically designed for matte paint surfaces.
Regular dusting: To minimize the accumulation of dust and dirt on your matte walls, incorporate regular dusting into your cleaning routine. Use a clean microfiber cloth or duster to gently remove any loose particles.

Girl hanging a photo frame on a white and pristine white wall at her home

Remember, proper care and maintenance are key to preserving the beautiful look of your matte paint walls. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can confidently tackle any cleaning task while keeping your walls impeccable and long-lasting.

At Fresh Home Cleaning we are professional cleaning experts, dedicated to offering the best information and advice so that your home remains impeccable. If you prefer to save time, you can always contact our team.

Book now whit Fresh Home Cleaning

Resources

Interior Paints & Coatings – Sherwin-Williams

How to Clean Flat Paint – The Spruce

FAQs

Q1: How do I clean matte paint walls effectively?

A1: To clean matte paint walls effectively, start by removing any dust or loose dirt using a soft-bristle brush or a microfiber cloth. Then, mix a mild detergent with warm water and gently wipe the walls using a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing vigorously to prevent damaging the paint. Finally, rinse the walls with clean water and pat them dry with a soft towel.

Q2: What is the best way to clean walls with flat paint?

A2: When cleaning walls with flat paint, it’s important to be gentle to avoid smudging or removing the paint. Begin by dry dusting the walls with a microfiber cloth or a soft brush. For stains or marks, use a mixture of mild soap and warm water, and gently dab the affected area with a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as this can cause the paint to fade or come off. Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a soft towel.

Q3: Can I clean walls with a mop?

A3: While it is not recommended to clean walls with a mop, there are alternative methods that can be more effective and safer for your walls. Mops are typically designed for floor cleaning and may not provide the gentleness required for wall surfaces. Instead, opt for a soft cloth, sponge, or microfiber mop head to clean your walls, following the appropriate cleaning techniques mentioned earlier.

Q4: Does Fresh Home Cleaning use eco-friendly cleaning products?

A4: Yes, Fresh Home Cleaning is committed to prioritizing the health and safety of its clients and their families. We use eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning solutions that are safe for children and pets. By using these environmentally friendly products, Fresh Home Cleaning ensures a clean and healthy living environment while minimizing the impact on the planet.

Q5: How can I contact Fresh Home Cleaning for their services?

A5: To contact Fresh Home Cleaning for their high-quality cleaning services, you can reach us by calling at +1 (301) 979-7554. For more information about our services, you can also visit our website at https://fresh-homecleaning.com. Our friendly team will be happy to assist you and answer any further questions you may have.