Spot-clean scuffs on a painted wall.

Shoes, furniture, and everyday traffic can leave dark marks on painted walls. The safest approach is to start dry, test first, and use as little moisture and pressure as possible. Flat and older finishes may burnish or lose color more easily than satin or gloss paint.

What you’ll need

• Vacuum with soft dusting brush
• Two white soft cloths or nonabrasive sponges
• Small bowl
• Warm water
• Mild dish soap
• Dry towel

Take it step by step

1. Check that the paint is fully cured. Sherwin-Williams advises waiting at least two weeks after painting before washing with soap and water.
2. Remove loose dust with a vacuum’s soft brush attachment. Do not scrub dusty paint because grit can scratch or polish the finish.
3. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild soap. Test the solution and your pressure in a hidden area, then let that spot dry and inspect it.
4. Wring the cloth very well. Wipe the scuff gently in small circular motions, working from the outside toward the center. Avoid soaking the drywall or trim.
5. Use a second barely damp cloth to remove soap residue, then blot the area dry. Stop if color appears on the cloth or the sheen changes.

When to ask for help

Ask for help if the mark is actually peeling paint, a soft or swollen wall, a recurring water stain, or suspected mildew. Those signs need the cause corrected before cosmetic cleaning or repainting.