Tips for Cleaning Painted Surfaces

After spending time and money to get that perfect paint job, you definitely do not want it to deteriorate quickly. Cleaning painted surfaces is not always easy, but it is an important part of maintenance to preserve the quality and appearance. Our Vancouver painters know that using the right tools and techniques can help you keep your painted surfaces clean and tidy. That is why we have put together some tips for cleaning painted surfaces.

1. Know Your Paint Type

The first and foremost thing to remember when cleaning painted surfaces is the type of paint that was used. It is also important to keep in mind where the painted surface is located in your home, as indoor and outdoor painting jobs differ greatly when it comes to cleaning. The best way to clean surfaces with specific types of paint include:

• Water-based paint surfaces—Use warm water and a mild soap.
• Oil-based paint surfaces—Use mineral spirits.
• Latex paint surfaces—Use a mixture of water and household detergent.

2. Know the Type of Dirt

Not all dirt is alike, and cleaning it from painted surfaces takes a bit of skill. For example, paint jobs in the kitchen and high-traffic areas inside the house can often get greasy due to the oils from hands and fingers, so you will need to use a chemical degreaser. On the other hand, if you want to clean mildewy surfaces outside the house, you should use a water and bleach mixture.

3. Use the Right Cleaning Tools

Using the correct cleaning tools ensures that your painted surfaces remain in pristine condition. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface first. Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch or damage the paint.

A soft-bristled brush, a non-abrasive sponge, or a microfibre cleaning cloth is recommended to avoid scratching or damaging any painted surfaces. When removing dust particles and debris from the painted surfaces, make sure you are using a vacuum cleaner with a soft-bristled brush attachment. To remove scuff marks, try using a melamine foam eraser (such as a Magic Eraser) or a pencil eraser.

For more details, make sure to read our paint cleaning guide.

4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Avoid using harsh chemicals like ammonia and acetone to clean your painted surfaces. While these chemicals might initially clean your painted surfaces, they can cause significant damage to the paint job in the long run. Instead, opt for mild detergents and cleaning solutions that would ensure that your painted surfaces stay sparkling clean.

5. Consult a Professional Painter

Unless you intend to remove your current paint, know that over-scrubbing or aggressive dirt removal methods could lead to permanent damage and paint removal; therefore, it is ideal to consult a professional or a painter who can assess the situation and advise you on the best cleaning, repainting, paint removal, and maintenance methods that will not damage your painted surface.

We hope these tips and tricks have provided some useful insights on how to take care of your paint job but, if you need professional help, feel free to call 604-788-3382 for a no-obligation estimate.