Cleaning Wall Stains

As a general rule, you should always test all of these methods out on a small, inconspicuous area of paint that is generally hidden from view to see how it will effect the paint.

WATER STAIN REMOVAL: Water stains are normally impossible to remove. You can try to bleach out the stain if your paint color is bright white. Unfortunately, you are most likely going to have to repaint the area. Its best to seal off the stain first, otherwise it might continue to keep reappearing. Sealants are normally available at a paint or home improvement store.

CLEANING WOOD WALLS OR PANELING: Wood sealed with polyurethane can be washed with soap and water. Be sure to dry it down with a soft rag after cleaning. If the wood is unfinished, we do not recommend applying any type of moisture to the surface. Instead, try dry wiping, dusting, or vacuuming the surface.

REMOVING PENCIL MARKS FROM PAINTED WALLS: There are some products available (such as Bio-OX Citrus Concentrate) that can help you clean away marks. Make sure you test the solution first to see how it affects the paint on a small inconspicuous area of paint. You can also try a mild detergent dissolved in warm water and a baking soda scrub. We suggest working bottom up to avoid streaking. Give it a little time to dry and wipe with a clean, dry cloth. You can also try gently rubbing the pencil mark away with a white eraser, being careful not to apply too much pressure to the surface.

REMOVING OIL BASED STAINS: Unfortunately, removing the stain without harming the paint is unlikely. You may be able to remove the oil stain with turpentine, but its best to try it on a hidden area of paint before trying it on the stain. It might be necessary to repaint the spot.

REMOVING HAIRSPRAY: You can remove the hairspray by rubbing the surface clean with a soft rag sprayed with ammonia.

INK STAIN REMOVAL: Spray the area well with a non-oily liquid hairspray and wipe it clean with a clean cloth. Several applications might be necessary.

REMOVING SMOKE FILM: You can wash the walls with a solution of a half cup of borax and two tablespoons of Ivory flakes, one tablespoon of ammonia, and a gallon of warm water. Apply with a spray bottle or dilute a couple of cups in a gallon of warm water.

CLEANING DIRTY WALLS: To clean a painted wall, fill a bucket with clean warm water and use a cleaner with a degreaser in it. A commercial product such as Pine-Sol or Mr. Clean would work fine a cleaning solution for your walls. We recommend using a sponge mop to wash the walls. Be sure to squeeze out the water in the mop before using it to make sure you don't apply too much water to your walls. Wipe the water off immediately with a clean rag.