Washing painted walls?

frostyspice

I need to wash down some emulsioned walls - what should I use? They're a bit grubby with coffee splats and similar and I can't afford to redecorate just yet. Should I just try warm soapy water? Cif takes the paint off!

I've heard of decorators using something called sugar soap, but is that just for preparing the wall for another coat of paint?

I'm very ignorant in these matters - please can someone help?!

Bargain_Claire

Yup, what you need is sugar soap - I've used it on painted walls just to clean tham and its fine.

Its in a yellow and red cardboard container from hardware stores - I bought it in Robert Dyas for a couple of quid. You just add the powder to water and off you go. I've also used it on my BBQ and getting tough grime off the shower. Its a miracle product!

robnye

or warm soapy water...... sugar soap can be a little too harsh if all you are after is to clean the walls, rather than prepare them for new paint/wallpaper

cheekymole

I just use damp cloth (very cheap)

tattooed_lady

I use baby wipes on everything, don't know if it's recommended though!!

robowen

If the walls are vinyl silk emulsion, then they should wipe down with warm water and a cloth.
If you have matt emulsion.....then.....no idea :think:

We had matt walls for about 3 days before the finger marks got unbearable and we re-painted.

Don't have matt walls if you got kids :doh:

rob

loracan1

And wash them going upwards from the bottom. I always thought this was a bit daft but if you start at the top you get streaks running down over the dry bits which are a b****r to get off afterwards. If the wall below is still damp it's dead easy to wipe over.