Gloss paint is much easier to clean than flat or eggshell paint; the higher the gloss, typically the more durable and washable the painted surface. Using mild cleansers, even latex (water-based) gloss paint can be cleaned effectively.
Things You Will Need
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Fill a bucket with soapy water, using mild dish-washing detergent or a general purpose cleaner.
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Fill a second bucket with clear water for rinsing. Put drop cloths or old towels below the area you're going to clean.
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Starting at the bottom of whatever you are washing, use a sponge to wash the painted trim. The Old House Journal suggests using a natural sea sponge instead of a synthetic one. Working from bottom to top prevents dirty water from running down and soiling the lower areas.
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Rinse the surface from the top down, using your second sponge and the bucket of clean water.
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Buff the surface dry with clean dry rags or paper towels.
The Drip Cap
- Painted trim in your house accumulates a film of dust, like any other interior surface, even if it's in a rarely-used room.
- If you have a busy home, trim can get quite grimy, especially around door handles, on painted cabinets and baseboards.
- Buff the surface dry with clean dry rags or paper towels.