One of the important aspects of a successful paint job is keeping things clean. After finishing a painting job it is important to clean the area and equipment.

Here are some specific tips on keeping things clean while doing a paint job!

1. Minimizing Spatters&Drips;

If you are using a roller, avoid bumping the roller into the walls as you paint the ceiling, or into the ceiling as you paint the walls.

No matter how fast or slowly you move the roller across a surface, just wear a cap and make sure the furniture&floor are covered with drop cloths. You can use canvas drop cloths as they are durable, washable, and reusable. You can also use plastic drop cloths, which are less expensive.

To prevent paint drop from occurring on windows and doors we recommend using paint shield. Hold the shield in one hand and place it perpendicular to the surface being painted, while applying the paint using your free hand. Paint shields are ideal for painting window frames because they can be used to keep the paint off of the glass.

Some spatters and spills are inevitable. We advise you to keep a moist sponge and pail of water available when you are using latex paints to wipe up any spatters or drips that may occur. If you are using a solvent-thinned paint, keep thinner and a supple of rags nearby to wipe up any of the spatters or drips. Always make sure to wipe them up right away before they dry into bumps.

2. Cleaning Windowpanes, Spatters, and Drips

The best time to clean up paint drips and spatters is when they are still wet and will wipe away easily. Also, if you used masking tape around any windows, peel it off right after painting. Waiting too long to do so may cause you to accidentally pull off some of the paint.

Cleaning up drips and spatters on most other surfaces is easy and less time consuming. For latex paint, a soft cloth combined with household detergent and warm water should do the trick.

To get paint drips off hardwood, ceramic tile, or resilient flooring, wrap a cloth around a putty knife and gently scrape them up. Next, wash the areas with warm, soapy water.

3. Cleaning Painting Equipment

Now clean your paint equipment. This includes not only rollers and brushes but also reusable drop cloths, paint cans, containers and roller pans. Don’t delay cleaning your equipment, as fresh paint comes off the easiest.

To clean paint color from reusable drop cloths of heavy-duty plastic or canvas just use water, soap and paper towels. Do not use solvent on drop cloths.

As always, enjoy painting!