Remove wall decor, outlet covers, switch plates, and hardware
Cover floors and furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheeting
Clean walls with mild soap and water or a degreaser
Remove dust, cobwebs, and loose debris
Scrape off peeling or flaking paint
Fill holes, dents, and cracks with spackle or filler
Let filler dry completely
Sand patched areas smooth
Sand glossy surfaces lightly to dull the finish
Wipe walls with a damp cloth or tack cloth to remove dust
Caulk gaps along trim, corners, and seams
Repair any water damage or stains
Apply stain-blocking primer to stains and repaired areas
Prime bare drywall, patched spots, and problem surfaces
Tape off trim, ceilings, and edges if needed
Check for remaining imperfections and sand or fill again
Ensure walls are clean, dry, and smooth before painting