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Should You Wash Walls Before Painting?

That 1 Painter is the fastest-growing painting company in the world. Painting your house can be complicated, but with our expertise, we make the process easy and stress-free for homeowners. With locations across the nation, we have helped tens of thousands of homeowners make the best choices for their homes without sacrificing quality, and we are here to show you how.

Short answer?
Yes. Sometimes, absolutely.

It depends on the condition of your walls, but if they have visible dirt, grime, or anything sticky from daily life, this one extra step can make a big difference.

Why Washing Matters

Paint needs a clean surface to stick.
If there’s a layer of grease, dust, or fingerprints, it won’t adhere properly.
You might end up with peeling, uneven texture, or patches where the paint slides right off.

Even walls that look clean can have invisible buildup.
Think kitchen splatter, fingerprints around light switches, or general dust in corners.

Taking a few minutes to clean your walls before painting helps the finish go on smoother and last longer.
It also prevents future headaches like flaking or uneven coverage.

What to Use When Washing Your Walls 

You don’t need anything fancy.
A mild detergent or even simple dish soap and warm water will usually do the trick.

Focus on:

  • Baseboards and trim edges
  • Around light switches and door frames
  • High-traffic areas like hallways or kids’ rooms
  • Spots behind furniture or appliances

Give the wall a good wipe, then let it dry completely.
Paint won’t bond well to damp surfaces, even if they look clean.

Do You Have to Wash Every Wall?

Not always.
A light dusting might be enough if the wall is recently painted, dry, and looks clean.

But if it’s been a while or you see any buildup, take the extra step.
Even one missed area can affect the final result.

And let’s be honest, if you’re putting in the time to paint, it’s worth getting it right.

So… should you wash walls before painting?

Yes, if they’re dirty or greasy.
It’s a simple step that makes your paint job look better and last longer.

If you’re not sure where to start, or want someone else to handle the prep, call That 1 Painter.
We’re happy to walk you through it or take care of the whole project.

The best results always start with a clean wall.
And we’re here to help you get there.

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