How to Clean Surfaces Before Painting

Before you even crack open a paint can, there’s one step you absolutely shouldn’t skip: cleaning your walls. Even if they look clean, they probably aren’t. Dust, airborne grease from cooking, and even old cleaner residue can cause adhesion problems and can prevent paint from sticking properly—leading to uneven coverage or peeling down the line.

Here’s how to get your surfaces paint-ready with minimal fuss.

What You’ll Need:

• Bucket of warm water
• Mild dish soap or a degreasing cleaner
• Sponge or soft cloth
• Rags or microfibre towels
• (Optional) TSP substitute or pre-paint wall cleaner
• Rubber gloves

Step 1:

Dust First

Start by removing any surface dust using a damp cloth or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Pay close attention to baseboards, corners, and window trim where dust builds up.

Step 2:

Wash with a Gentle Cleaner

Mix a few drops of dish soap into a bucket of warm water. Dip your sponge or cloth into the solution and wring it out well—it should be damp, not dripping.

Wipe the walls from top to bottom in smooth, overlapping strokes.

In kitchens and bathrooms, you should use a stronger degreaser or a TSP alternative to cut through built-up residue.

Step 3:

Rinse and Let Dry

Once you’ve cleaned a section, go over it with a clean, damp cloth to remove any leftover soap. Let the walls dry fully before doing any sanding, filling, or priming.

Bonus Tips:

A little time spent cleaning means your paint will go on smoother, last longer, and look more professional.

If you’re painting over a glossy surface (like old oil paint or semi-gloss), light sanding after cleaning will help the new paint grip better. Just be sure to wipe down any sanding dust before priming or painting.

Ask Autohome for the Right Cleaner

From TSP alternatives to prep tools and sanding blocks, Autohome carries everything you need to get your surfaces ready for paint—and our team is always happy to offer tips if you’re unsure where to start.