Learn why your bathroom walls need more scrubbing than others, and get our best cleaning methods for a more sanitary space.
Even if you routinely perform a whole home deep clean, chances are slim that scrubbing walls makes it onto the list of chores. That's because walls are a commonly overlooked part of the house; one that we don't think -- or notice -- is as dirty as our floors or kitchen counters. Often, it's not until little hands use crayon on the wall that they finally get some attention.
But all walls need some TLC from time to time. Bathroom walls are especially prone to grime and, ideally, should be cleaned more often than those in the rest of the house. We'll explain why and how they get so dirty, the frequency with which they should be cleaned, and what methods to use depending on the type of wall. Whether they're tiled, wallpapered, painted, or a combination, you can confidently keep them as squeaky clean as possible with this how-to guide.
One reason why these walls get dirty more quickly than others is due to the size of the space. Bathrooms are generally small rooms, and less square footage between four walls makes it easier for dirt to find its way onto them. Another reason is what we do while in the bathroom. Flushing toilets, applying makeup and hairspray, or taking a hot shower (and, sometimes, forgetting to turn the exhaust fan on) create more opportunities for the walls to collect dirt, stains, smudges, and more.
These are a few of the top factors that contribute to dirty bathroom walls. While some are difficult to avoid altogether, being mindful of them can help cut down on cleaning sessions.
Mold and Mildew
After a steamy shower, the excess moisture in the air needs somewhere to go. That's why it's important to turn the fan on and let it run until the dampness dissipates. Otherwise, it'll stick to surfaces, including the walls, which encourages mold and mildew to grow. In addition to using the fan, ensure it's clean and in good working condition to keep the bathroom walls as dry as possible.
Dust and Lint
Despite your best efforts to keep humidity levels low in the bathroom, they will always be higher here than anywhere else in the house. That makes bathroom walls more susceptible to dust buildup. Lint from fibers can cling to damp walls if you store clothes hampers and extra towels in the bathroom. Storage baskets with lids may help, as well as learning how to dust efficiently and doing it as often as you comfortably can.
Product Residue
Aerosol products such as hairspray and deodorant can reach far beyond their intended target. If you spritz them on yourself regularly, they're most likely covering the walls as well -- so consider applying sprays in a more open area instead. Leaning towards the mirror while applying foundation? Be careful not to brush against the walls with dirty fingers or sponges to prevent makeup from transferring.
Soap Scum and Hard Water
By no fault of their own, the walls surrounding sinks, showers, and bathtubs are vulnerable to soap scum accumulation and hard water stains. Some prevention methods include installing a water softener, habitually using a squeegee after showering, and trying out viral hacks to ward off water spots.
Related: The Ultimate Chore Checklist: Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Tasks for a Tidy Home
How Often You Should Clean Bathroom Walls
As with any household routine, this answer depends on your specific situation. If multiple family members use a bathroom, dirt can accumulate more quickly. Even if you have the luxury of your own private space to get ready every day, those walls will also be dirtier than the ones in the seldom-used guest bathroom or powder room. Use your best judgment to adopt the following cleaning schedule for your household.
Related: How Often Should You Clean Your Bathroom? Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Tasks to Check Off
How to Clean Bathroom Walls
Most full-size bathrooms include a combination of painted and tiled walls, and your cleaning method will depend on the material used. Whether your bathroom features painted walls, a wallpapered accent wall, or original wooden shiplap walls, there's a simple way to keep them clean.
How to Clean Tiled Bathroom Walls
Mix warm water with a mild detergent and use a soft cloth to wipe the solution over any tiled walls in the bathroom. For areas prone to mold, mildew, and soap scum, spray them down with a vinegar solution or apply a baking soda paste onto particularly stubborn spots. Use a scrub brush to buff away stains and then wipe tiles clean to remove residue before drying them with a clean cloth.
How to Clean Painted Bathroom Walls
It's essential to steer clear of using anything abrasive on painted walls so the color stays intact. While many choose a moisture-resistant water-based latex paint (over oil-based) for bathrooms, its finish will determine the ideal cleaning method. You're better off using a soft, dry cloth to wipe walls with a flat finish. Gently spot-treat stains or scuff marks with a dampened Magic Eraser.
If your bathroom walls have a sheen, thanks to their semi-gloss or satin finish, ditch the melamine sponge and use a regular soft sponge dipped in a mild dishwasher detergent and warm water solution. As with tiled walls, rinse glossy-finished walls with a clean, slightly damp sponge and then lightly wipe them with a soft, dry cloth.
Related: 4 Paint Colors You Should Never Use in the Bathroom (And What to Use Instead)
How to Clean Wallpaper Bathroom Walls
Follow the same steps as you would to clean shiny painted walls, using a small amount of soapy water. Be careful not to douse wallpaper, as too much moisture can damage it. As soon as you're done cleaning, quickly dry the walls with a clean, soft cloth.
How to Clean Wood Bathroom Walls
Using wood for bathroom floors, ceilings, or walls can be tricky because wood and moisture are not a good combination. If your bathroom has raw wood walls, stick to dry cleaning them as you would flat-finished painted walls. Laminated wood can hold up better to humidity, so ideally, your wood bathroom walls are sealed. If that's the case, use the same cleaning method for wallpaper -- working fast with a lightly dampened sponge and then a dry cloth.
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