I’ve had my fair share of frustration with cleaning matte paint. A few years back, I switched to a matte finish in my living room because I loved the soft look. It made the space feel warm and cozy.
But after a few months, I noticed smudges from my kid’s hands, pet nose prints, and a weird stain near the kitchen corner.
That’s when I learned that matte paint looks great but needs a gentler touch when it comes to cleaning.
This guide is for anyone dealing with smudges, dirt, or scuffs on matte-painted walls and wondering what to do without messing up the paint.
I’ll walk through the best tools, step-by-step cleaning methods, what products to use, and what to avoid.
If cleaning matte walls feels tricky, this’ll help make it simple.
Understanding Matte Paint
Matte paint has a soft, flat finish. It doesn’t reflect light like glossier paints.
That makes it great for hiding wall imperfections, but it also means stains and marks can stand out more.
Matte and flat paint are often used in quiet areas like bedrooms or living rooms. They’re not made to handle heavy cleaning.
Compared to eggshell or satin finishes, matte is more delicate. It can rub off or get patchy if scrubbed too hard.
The surface of matte paint is a bit porous. That means it can soak up oils or dirt instead of repelling them. So, wiping it roughly or using strong cleaners can damage the finish.
That’s why the method matters just as much as the cleaner itself.
Steps to Cleaning Matte Paint Walls
Cleaning matte walls takes a gentle touch and the correct method. These steps will help remove stains without damaging the finish.
Step 1: Gather Supplies, Prep, and Dust
The first step is to gather a few gentle tools. Cleaning matte walls doesn’t require anything fancy, but it does need the right supplies. Microfiber cloths or soft, non-abrasive sponges are best.
Two buckets, one for warm soapy water and one for rinsing, make things easier. A few drops of mild dish soap usually work for everyday stains.
Baking soda can help with tougher spots, and an ammonia-free or plant-based cleaner is useful for grease. Before starting, lay towels or old rags along the baseboards to catch drips and protect the floor.
Dusting the wall with a microfiber cloth or vacuum brush removes surface grime and keeps it from smearing. Taking time to prep helps prevent damage and mess.
It’s a small step that makes the cleaning process smoother and more effective later on.
Step 2: Check the Paint Finish
Before cleaning starts, it’s important to know what kind of paint is on the wall. Matte and flat finishes aren’t like eggshell or satin; they don’t reflect light and are more delicate.
They soak up dirt more easily and can get damaged with too much pressure or the wrong cleaner. A glossy wall can handle more, but matte walls need a softer approach. One way to tell is by looking at the light.
If there’s no shine, it’s likely matte or flat. If it reflects a little, it could be eggshell. Matte paint also feels dry and soft to the touch, not slick. When in doubt, it’s safer to treat it like matte.
This step helps avoid damage and makes sure the rest of the cleaning is done gently and correctly.
Step 3: Start with Water and Gentle Cleaning
Once the prep work is finished and the paint type is known, the first step in cleaning is to try plain warm water. Light marks like scuffs, smudges, or fingerprints often come off without needing soap.
Use a soft microfiber cloth or sponge, dip it in warm water, and wring it out until just damp. Avoid soaking the wall, as too much water can damage matte paint. Gently wipe the area in small circles using light pressure.
If the stain begins to lift, continue with care. Rinse the spot using a second cloth dampened with clean water. This removes any dirt or residue left behind. Finish by patting the wall dry with a soft towel.
Drying right away helps prevent water spots and keeps the surface even. This gentle method works well for basic stains and is the safest way to start. If the mark remains, the next step is to add mild soap.
Step 4: Use Stronger Cleaner Only if Needed
Some stains will not come off with just mild soap. Dried food, crayons, or grease may need something stronger. A plant-based or ammonia-free cleaner can help in these cases.
These products are usually safe for painted walls and work better on stubborn spots. Always spray the cleaner onto a clean cloth, not directly on the wall. This prevents drips and protects the paint.
Gently wipe or dab the stain using small circles. Then rinse the area with a damp cloth and pat it dry. Only use this step if the gentler methods did not work.
If the stain remains, consider touching up the paint instead of scrubbing more. Always test new cleaners on a hidden area first to avoid damage.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry the Wall
After cleaning with water, soap, or any solution, rinsing the wall is an important step. Even mild products can leave a film that causes streaks or dull spots, especially on matte paint.
Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the area and remove any leftover cleaner gently. Then dry the wall right away with a soft towel or microfiber cloth.
Letting water sit can affect the finish, so drying helps keep the surface even. This final step may seem small, but it helps the wall look clean and untouched, just like shown in the image.
Thanks to @Benjamin Moore for helping put together this step-by-step guide. For a visual walkthrough of the process, check out the video we used as a reference:
Caring for Matte Walls the Right Way
Matte walls can stay in good shape with just a little regular care. They don’t need constant cleaning, but a simple routine makes a big difference over time.
- Dust weekly with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent buildup.
- Spot clean marks as soon as they appear.
- Wipe high-use areas monthly, like kitchens or entryways.
- Use soft cloths and go easy on water when cleaning.
- Avoid spraying cleaner directly on the wall.
- Add felt pads to nearby furniture to prevent scuffs.
- Use rugs or wall protectors in busy areas to reduce contact.
Best and Worst Products for Matte Paint
The right products make cleaning matte walls easier and safer. This is what works and what to avoid based on my own experience.
| Safe to Use | Avoid Using |
|---|---|
| Mild dish soap (fragrance-free is safest) | Bleach or bleach-based cleaners |
| Baking soda (for stubborn spots) | Strong degreasers |
| Ammonia-free all-purpose cleaners | Abrasive pads or scrub brushes |
| Plant-based cleaners with simple ingredients | Magic Erasers (unless tested in a hidden spot first) |
Not all walls are made the same, and even gentle cleaners can react differently depending on the paint. Testing on a small hidden area first is the safest way to avoid damage.
Conclusion
Cleaning matte paint walls does not have to feel complicated. Once the right method is known, it becomes much easier to take care of marks and stains without damaging the finish.
The key is going step by step, using soft tools, mild products, and a gentle touch. For anyone looking for how to clean matte paint walls, this guide covers everything needed to get the job done safely.
From gathering supplies to rinsing and drying, each part is explained clearly and built to protect the paint. There is no need to guess or worry about doing it wrong.
With the information here, the process is simple and effective.
Now it is easier to handle everyday messes and keep matte walls looking clean and even, without the risk of damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should matte walls be cleaned?
Matte walls should be spot cleaned as needed. A more thorough cleaning every few months is usually enough, depending on how much use the space gets.
What causes streaks or bright spots after cleaning?
Streaks or bright spots often appear when too much water is used or when the surface is scrubbed with too much pressure. Allow the area to dry fully, then clean again using less water and a softer touch.
What helps with stains like crayon, grease, or pet nose prints?
Crayon marks can be treated with a baking soda paste. Grease stains often respond well to mild dish soap or a plant-based cleaner. Pet nose prints usually come off with a damp microfiber cloth.