A well-painted mural or colour-rich feature wall can elevate any space and create lasting visual impact. But without regular care, even the most detailed finish can fade. From dusty corners to greasy fingerprints, daily build-up gradually wears down painted surfaces.
Cleaning maintains not just the wall’s appearance but also protects the paint and materials underneath. In this guide, we’ll share practical maintenance tips for painted walls to help extend the life of your finish and keep your surfaces looking their best.
Tip #1: Start with the surface — know what paint you’re working with
Knowing what type of paint you’re dealing with helps you clean it properly and prevent accidental damage. Each finish responds differently to moisture, friction and cleaning agents, so surface awareness is key.
Acrylic paint is widely used in Australian homes, studios and commercial spaces. It’s low in odour, quick to dry, easy to clean and built for long-term durability — perfect for high-contact environments.
- Flat or low-sheen acrylics, especially darker colours like black, are more porous and prone to burnishing. It’s best to avoid cleaning with moisture or rubbing altogether, as this can worsen the finish.
- Gloss and semi-gloss are tougher — use a diluted pH-neutral detergent and a soft sponge.
- Metallic, mural or artist acrylics may have delicate pigments or texture. Dry dust first and spot test with a cloth.
Understanding the paint helps keep the colour and texture of your walls intact. Matching your method to the material is one of the simplest painted wall maintenance tips for everyday care.
Tip #2: Always dry dust first
Start with dry dusting. This helps clear loose particles and stops dirt embedding into paint. Use a microfibre cloth or soft vacuum brush and work top to bottom. Avoid feather dusters that push dust around and potentially cause micro-abrasions.
Skipping this step can scratch the paint or dull its finish. In homes with pets, weekly dry dusting keeps colours fresh. In commercial spaces, a quick daily wipe-down reduces the need for more frequent, deeper cleans.
Tip #3: Use soft sponges and mild soap
Harsh cleaners can break down the paint film, dull colours or leave shiny spots. Instead, mix a few drops of pH-neutral dishwashing liquid with warm water. Lightly dampen a soft sponge and dab marks gently. Always rinse with clean water, and pat dry with a soft towel to avoid streaks.
Avoid scrubbing, especially on flat or low-sheen finishes, which are more vulnerable to friction. A gentle spot clean is usually enough and helps prevent premature wear. This method is versatile and safe across many types of interior finishes recommended by experienced paint suppliers and users.
Tip #4: Deep-clean high-touch areas the right way
Some walls, like those in entryways or retail spaces, attract more contact and grime. Rather than over-cleaning entire surfaces, work in manageable sections and spray cleaner onto your cloth rather than directly onto the wall. Wait until the area is fully dry before hanging anything back up.
In busy households and high-traffic commercial areas, spots like kitchen splash zones, hallway corners or entry points may need monthly attention. The key is to use soft materials and a gentle touch. Regular, light maintenance is far more effective (and less damaging) than aggressive scrubbing.
Tip #5: Avoid bleach, alcohol and oil-based cleaners
Certain household cleaners can cause discolouration, streaking or damage to the paint finish. It's best to avoid bleach, ammonia, citrus, alcohol and oil-based solutions entirely. When in doubt, test in a hidden spot first.
Use water-based options. A diluted mix of dish soap and warm water suits most interior paints. For tougher marks, try a soft sponge with one part vinegar to four parts water — only on gloss or semi-gloss finishes. Avoid on matte or mural paints unless verified safe.
Paint suppliers often recommend milder methods like these as reliable alternatives for preserving texture and colour, especially on decorative or custom-painted surfaces.
Tip #6: Routine care keeps walls cleaner for longer
A consistent but gentle routine can help extend the lifespan of your painted surfaces. Here are more maintenance tips for painted walls worth keeping on hand.
- Vacuum around skirting boards to prevent grey build-up.
- Use door bumpers and chair stoppers to avoid scuffing painted areas.
- Store leftover paint correctly and label it clearly for future touch-ups.
Spot treating marks instead of over-cleaning full areas and knowing when a light touch-up or protective topcoat is more appropriate can reduce unnecessary wear. In shared workspaces or cafes where wall traffic is high, setting a quarterly check-up routine for walls can prevent long-term degradation and keep the space looking freshly maintained year-round.
Explore surface-ready paints designed to last and clean up well with Viponds
Thorough, careful maintenance makes all the difference when it comes to keeping your painted walls looking fresh. But lasting results also start with the right paint. Whether you're painting murals, signage, shopfit installations or feature walls, paint suppliers like Viponds offer durable, cleanable, low-volatile organic compound (VOC) acrylic finishes built for high-contact and creative environments.
Each surface-ready finish is crafted for long-term performance and straightforward upkeep, making it easier to keep your walls looking their best over time. Browse our specialty paint range today to find the right solution for your project. For colour options that suit your space, consult our Colour Guide. Need help choosing the right product or aftercare approach? Our team is here to offer expert advice — feel free to reach out to us.