Stains on ceiling or walls: Lifehacks to remove dark water marks without repainting

How to remove water stains from walls and ceilings

Water stains do not appear on tiles; they need a more absorbent surface, so they usually appear on bare walls.

However, since walls are usually painted, this creates the following problem: how to clean the wall without damaging it. At the same time, some methods can help remove such stains without destroying the surface.

Soap and water

Start with the mildest solution and increase the intensity of the cleaning methods only when the basic methods do not cope with the task.

Make a simple solution of household soap and warm water in a ratio of approximately one to two.

With a cloth soaked in the mixture, apply the soapy solution to the stain. Gently rub it from the edges to the center, then rinse with plain water and dry thoroughly with a hairdryer on the cool setting.

Vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda

If this did not work, fill a spray bottle with a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda.

Shake the mixture and spray it on the stain. Leave it for about an hour, then gently rub it with a damp cloth.

You may need to repeat this process several times to remove the stain completely, so do this when you have time for multi-hour soaking intervals.

How to remove water stains from wood

If you have wooden panels or cabinets that also look dirty from water stains, there are several options to clean wooden surfaces.

Vinegar and oil mixture

Mix equal parts vinegar and olive oil and apply to the stain with a cloth, wiping in the direction of the grain until the stain disappears - then wipe the surface with a clean dry cloth.

Iron over fabric

This method is suitable for still damp stains. Set the iron to the lowest temperature over the fabric on top of the stain.

Gently press it for a few seconds and remove to see if the stain is disappearing, then try again until you achieve the desired result.

How to remove water stains from tiles

Ordinary water stains don't heavily soil tiles; hard water can deposit minerals and cause unsightly brown or orange stains.

To get rid of them, try mixing white vinegar with water or baking soda until you get a paste-like consistency.

Apply the mixture to the tiles using a sponge or an old toothbrush. Leave it for some time, periodically checking the result, and when the solution has acted sufficiently, rinse it off with clean water and wipe the surface with a cloth or sponge.

Also, read about things that should never be cleaned with baking soda.