How to Clean Painted Brick

Painted bricks, whether on interior or exterior walls, need timely cleaning. Without proper cleaning, they lose their shine, texture, and appeal. Rather than incurring the high cost of replacement, you can follow our little guide on how to clean painted brick easily at home with simple steps and increase their life.

How To Clean Painted Brick

Painted bricks include acrylic material, polycarbonates, and other silicates that lose sheen if not maintained from time to time. Therefore, we suggest these simple DIY cleaning methods for painted bricks.

Method 1: Cleaning Painted Bricks With Mild Detergent

Whether you’re cleaning real bricks or faux bricks that you painted, you can use this method. The best method to clean painted bricks at home is with the use of mild detergent. It is easily available and can be readily used.

Step 1: Dust The Painted Bricks

• Use a feather duster or a soft dry cloth.
• Dust the painted brick walls to remove dirty & loose debris. 
• For exterior bricks, use a water hose to remove dust off them. 
• Vacuum the floor near the interior bricks after dusting is over. 

Step 2: Prepare A Cleaning Solution

• You will need a bucket. 
• Mix warm water and mild dish detergent into it. (Prefer only a few drops of dish detergent to one gallon of water)
• Avoid using harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, and others.

Step 3: Scrubbing The Painted Bricks

• You will need a thick cloth or a soft sponge for the process.
• Scrub the bricks with the sponge, dipped in the cleaning solution. 
• Start from the bottom, and work all the way up. 
• The scrubbing should be in a circular motion.
• Work preferably within a 3-foot section and then opt for another area. 

Tip!

Place old rags and towels around the interior perimeter of the house. It will help soak up the water drips during the internal cleaning process.

Step 4: Clean The Bricks

• Now, clean all the sections with a neat & damp cloth.
• Repeat the process for few times.
• Dry the brick surface with dry towels. 

Tip!

Dust the wall at least once every month to maintain its appeal and prolong life.

Method 2: Cleaning Painted Bricks With Mixture Of Cream Of Tartar & Water

This method is for cleaning the painted bricks in small areas, such as around the fireplace. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Dusting The Painted Brick Wall

• Use the duster or a soft cloth to wipe the dirt off the bricks.
• Vacuum the interior floors after dusting. 

Step 2: Prepare The Cleaning Solution

• Use two tablespoons of Cream of Tartar along with a bit of water.
• Mix it properly to prepare the solution. 
• Pick a quantity, depending upon the size of the cleaning area.

Step 3: Apply The Mixture

• Use a brush or tool to apply it over the painted bricks.
• Let it settle down for 10 minutes.
• Now, rinse with warm water.
• Use a soft cloth to wipe off the solution.

Method 3: Cleaning Painted Bricks With Vinegar & Water

This is an alternative for Method 1. Also, you can try this method for deep cleaning of a large brick wall. Take a look at the step:

1. Dusting the wall is a must before proceeding with other steps.
2. Use a 1:1 ratio of vinegar and water.
3. Mix it and add it to a spray bottle. 
4. Spray it over the painted bricks.
5. Now, let it settle down for few minutes.
6. Make use of a sponge mop for cleaning the bricks.

Tip!

You can use a scrubbing brush with nylon bristles and elbow grease for extremely dirty bricks. Moreover, scrubbing will help remove the dirt and stains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Phosphoric Acid For Cleaning My Painted Bricks?

Yes, you can but use goggles and gloves. Phosphoric acid consists of crystalline acid that helps in cleaning all types of concrete and masonry. Moreover, it is a considerably powerful solution, as compared to muriatic acid and other harmful solutions. 

Can I Use A Wire Brush Instead Of A Nylon Bristle Brush?

No, you cannot use a metal wire brush, as it will leave its bits and pieces over the wall. Hence, those pieces will rust, and the bricks will stain. So, for robust stains, always use a nylon bristle brush to scrub. 

Conclusion

So, next time when you think about cleaning your painted bricks at home, no need to hire professionals. Instead, do it all by yourself and revive the look of your bricks without much hassle.