Remove dust, cobwebs, and loose debris with a dry microfiber cloth, duster, or vacuum brush attachment
Protect floors, outlets, and trim with drop cloths and painter’s tape if needed
Mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap in a bucket
Test the cleaning solution on a small hidden area first
Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth dampened with the solution
Wipe the walls from top to bottom in small sections
Rinse the sponge or cloth often to avoid spreading dirt
Use a second clean cloth dampened with plain water to remove soap residue
Clean stubborn spots with a gentle scrub using a non-abrasive sponge
Avoid soaking the walls to prevent damage to paint, drywall, or wallpaper
Let the walls dry completely before sanding, patching, or painting
Spot-clean grease, smoke, or mildew with the appropriate cleaner before painting
Wear gloves if using stronger cleaners
Ensure good ventilation while cleaning and drying