What household cleaner is good to wash the walls before I start painting?

Question

I've never painted before and want things to go as smoothly as possible.

Thanks for your reply!

Answer 1

TSP - you can find it in the hardward or food stores. It takes off grease and makes the walls ready for the new paint. Follow the directions for prepping the walls on the box. This is what painters use. It is cheap also.

Answer 2

you could buy a primer for the type of paint already on the wall. You could also try TSP, tri sodium phosphate. You should be able to get it at Lowes or Home Depot.

TSP will 'etch' a glossy paint just a little so another layer of paint will stick.

We have normally not primed the walls unless the paint already on them is glossy.

But all things said and done, it's probably easiest just to prime the walls if you're that worried about it. The primer will ensure the color you picked out looks bright and still matches the color of the paint chip.

Answer 3

RE: How long before mold will grow? My washing machine flooded my apartment a few days ago. I have the carpets lifted and a couple fans, dehumidifiers, heaters, etc. going. I was told by a contractor that I would have to also cut into my drywall to get rid of the moisture that is in there as well. Will a dehumidifier/open...

Answer 4

TSP It's available at the grocery stoire and all hardware stores, it's a powdered detergent that is perfect for cleaning walls, especially greasy kitchen walls. Plus it's pretty cheap.

Answer 5

Sugar soap is the best, gets rid of any grease or things sitting on the surface. Available from any DIY shop

Answer 6

I used a Clorox product called Clorox Clean-Up. I use it on my countertops in the kitchen and to clean the bathrooms, too. It cleans the walls while disinfecting them and killing any mold that might bloom later.

Answer 7

This is the best cleaner that you can buy. I have used them all. A friend told me about this product, about six years ago, and have never regreted using it. It will clean anything off of your walls, works great on tar and nicotine stains..Click It>>
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Answer 8

Simple Green

Answer 9

Just paint over the existing color. You'll want 2 coats.

Answer 10

I suggest using warm water.