How to Clean Exposed Indoor Brick Walls

How to Clean Exposed Indoor Brick Walls
Written By
Shelley Frost
Shelley Frost
Published: Sep 30, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Mild cleaning agents combined with a coarse-bristled scrub brush often work to clean the brick. Always start in a small hidden area of the wall when testing a new cleaning method to ensure it doesn't damage or discolor the bricks.

Things You Will Need

  • Feather duster
  • Vacuum
  • Bucket
  • Dish soap
  • Salt
  • Scrub brush
  • Rags
  1. Dust the walls gently with a feather duster or vacuum to remove visible dust and cobwebs. Rags with lint or paper products tend to leave behind more debris on the brick so avoid them when dusting.

  2. Mix together equal parts of a dishwashing detergent that cuts grease and plain table salt. Stir the ingredients to create a paste consistency.

  3. Rub the cleaning paste onto the brick surface using your hands or a rag. Work in small sections of the wall.

  4. Scrub the brick covered in the cleaning paste using a scrub brush that has stiff bristles. Wipe the bricks clean after scrubbing with a rag and warm water. Move onto another section of the brick wall and repeat the process of applying the cleaning paste, scrubbing with a brush and washing off the cleaner.

The Drip Cap

  • The bumpy texture of bricks makes them a challenge to clean.
  • Abrasive methods of cleaning potentially cause damage to the brick or mortar, especially if the bricks are old.
  • Rub the cleaning paste onto the brick surface using your hands or a rag.

Photo Credits

Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Shelley Frost

Shelley Frost spends her days writing professionally on a full-time basis and experiments in the kitchen when she's not behind the keyboard. She specializes in writing about lifestyle topics and draws on her vast experience as a mom,…

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