As the Spring-cleaning season begins, we are often asked for advice on care of paintwork and walls. For most jobs, which only involve surface dirt, we recommend a light touch. Avoiding the use of harsh chemicals where possible is also sensible, for the benefit of both the paintwork and the people cleaning it. We gathered a few tips:

Our suggested cleaning supplies include:

• Mild detergent
• Distilled white vinegar
• Baking soda
• Olive oil
• Borax
• Liquid castile soap
• Microfibre cleaning cloths
• Newspaper

Painted walls:
Cleaning of walls painted in vinyl silk (kitchen & bathroom paint) or Diamond Matt emulsion is usually possible with little or no marking using a white cloth or sponge dipped in water and detergent, but it must be done gently. Matt emulsion is more delicate as shiny or darker patches may result from any rubbing – gentle dabbing with a slightly damp cloth may work.

Tougher marks can be taken off vinyl silk and Diamond Matt with cream cleaner (an unusual method to deal with crayon marks is to scrub them with an old toothbrush and a dab of toothpaste). Then wash the whole wall with a light solution of washing up liquid.

Glass:
Mix 1/4 cup vinegar with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. Spray on glass and wipe clean with old newspaper or a lint-free cloth.

Countertops and bathroom tile: 
Mix 2 parts vinegar and 1 part baking soda with 4 parts water. Apply with a sponge, scour, and wipe away.

Floors: 
Mix 4 cups of white distilled vinegar with about a gallon of hot water. You can add a few drops of pure peppermint or lemon oil for a pleasant scent. After damp mopping the floors, the smell of vinegar will dissipate quickly, leaving behind only the scent of the oil.

Wood furniture: 
Mix equal parts of lemon juice and olive and oil. Apply a small amount to a cloth, and rub onto the furniture in long, even strokes.

Toilet bowl cleaner: 
Sprinkle a toilet brush with baking soda and scrub away! Occasionally disinfect your toilet by scrubbing with borax instead. Wipe the outside of the toilet clean with straight vinegar.

Disinfectant: 
Mix 2 teaspoons borax, 4 tablespoons vinegar, 3 cups hot water, and 1/4 teaspoon liquid castile soap. Wipe on with dampened cloth or use a spray bottle. Wipe clean.

Mold and mildew: 
Wipe with straight vinegar.