Can you use Swiffer on walls?

Many people use Swiffer products like the Swiffer Sweeper and Swiffer WetJet to clean their floors. But can you also use Swiffer products on other surfaces like walls? The short answer is yes, you can use certain Swiffer products on walls to clean and dust them.

In the opening paragraphs, it’s important to provide a quick overview answering the main question. Swiffer products are designed primarily for floor cleaning, but some varieties can be used on other surfaces as well. With over 5 million Swiffer products sold annually, they are a popular cleaning tool found in many homes. Using Swiffer on walls can help capture dust, dirt, and other debris just as it does on floors. However, there are limitations and it’s important to use the right Swiffer product for walls.

What Type of Swiffer Product Can Be Used on Walls?

When deciding whether you can use Swiffer on walls, it depends on what specific Swiffer product you have:

Swiffer Dusters

Swiffer Dusters with extendable handles are one of the best Swiffer products to use on walls. The soft, thick duster head is designed to trap and lock dust and allergens. Swiffer Dusters come in a few varieties:

• Swiffer Dusters – The original thick, fluffy duster head that can reach high walls and ceiling corners.
• Swiffer Dusters with Febreze – Same fluffy duster now with a Febreze scent to freshen while you clean.
• Swiffer Extendable Handle Dusters – Features an extendable pole to reach even higher walls and ceilings up to 10 feet.

All of these dusters can safely be used on walls, baseboards, ceiling fans, light fixtures, and other surfaces. The thick fluffy fibers and extendable pole make Swiffer Dusters a great choice for removing dust and dirt from walls.

Swiffer Dry Cloths

The dry cloths used for Swiffer Sweepers are another product that can work on walls. These dry cloths feature thick fibers and static charge to attract and grab dirt. To use:

• Attach a dry cloth to the Swiffer Sweeper or any other stick/broom handle.
• Lightly run it along the wall surface to clean.

The static charge helps lift dust and dirt from walls. Try using dry cloths on picture frames, windowsills, and other delicate surfaces where a wet solution may not be ideal.

Swiffer WetJet Cleaning Pads

While designed for floors, the WetJet cleaning pad can also be hand-pressed onto walls. The wet pad adds moisture that can help remove dirt and stains. However, take caution when using WetJet pads on walls:

• Test on a small inconspicuous area first.
• Rub gently to avoid damaging paint or drywall.
• Use sparingly and do not saturate the wall.
• Avoid using on wallpaper or delicate surfaces that may warp or discolor.

When used properly, WetJet pads can spot clean marks on walls and remove things like dirt and grime buildup. But be cautious using excessive moisture which could damage walls.

Swiffer Products Not Recommended for Walls

While the above products can work, there are some Swiffer varieties that should be avoided on walls:

• Swiffer Sweep and Vac – The vacuum component is not designed to be used vertically on walls.
• Swiffer SteamBoost – The steam cleaner should only be used on sealed hard floor surfaces.
• Swiffer WetJet Hard Floor Cleaner Solution – Contains chemicals and fragrances optimized for floor cleaning.
• Swiffer Sweeper Dry Cloths with Gain Scent – Fragrance residues may stain or discolor walls.

Stick to simple Swiffer dry dusters and cloth options better suited for delicate wall surfaces. Avoid anything overly wet, scented, or that uses harsh chemicals. Also do not attempt to vacuum walls with any Swiffer product.

Tips When Using Swiffer on Walls

Here are some useful tips to follow when using Swiffer products on walls:

• Spot test a small area first to check for any damage to paint or surfaces.
• Use light pressure and gentle motions to avoid scuffing or tearing delicate wallpaper.
• Focus on one section at a time wiping up and down or side to side.
• Overlap your strokes to ensure full coverage and cleaner walls.
• Change Swiffer pads/cloths often to prevent re-depositing of dirt.
• Clean Swiffer accessories after each use for best results.
• Consider wearing gloves to protect hands and get a better grip.
• Use the telescopic handle for reaching high walls and ceilings easily.
• Rinse Swiffer WetJet pads after cleaning walls to remove excess dirt and moisture.

Following these tips will allow you to safely clean walls and remove dust using Swiffer products. Pay attention to the surface you are cleaning and check for any damage frequently.

Alternative Cleaning Tools for Walls

While Swiffer can work decently, here are some other good cleaning tools to consider for walls:

• Microfiber Cloths – Great for dry dusting walls and delicate surfaces.
• Painters Extension Pole – Attach cloths or soft brushes to reach high walls.
• Vacuum Cleaner Brush Head – For cleaning corners and ceiling cobwebs.
• Sponge Mop – Rinse and wring thoroughly to lightly damp mop walls.
• Magic Eraser – For scuff marks and heavier dirt buildup.

The key is using gentle cleaning methods and soft or slightly damp tools designed not to damage walls. Avoid overly wet, harsh scrubbing, and strong chemical cleaners.

Safely Clean Different Wall Surfaces

The type of walls you have will determine the cleaning method:

Painted Drywall

Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth and gentle wiping to clean dirt and smudges from painted drywall. Finish with a dry Swiffer or microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.

Wallpaper

Use a delicate touch and avoid wetting wallpaper. Dry dust with a Swiffer or microfiber cloth. Don’t scrub or use excess moisture that could loosen edges.

Textured Walls

Textured walls need extremely light dusting. Swiffer and microfiber cloths may snag on heavily textured surfaces. Use a soft brush or specialty wall duster instead.

Wood Paneling

Use a slightly damp cloth and wipe gently following the wood grain. Dry immediately after to avoid warping or water marks. Avoid Swiffer wet cleaning pads.

No matter the wall type, spot test first and clean gently. Take extra care on more delicate surfaces.

Conclusion

To summarize, Swiffer products like the dry cloths and dusters can be used to clean walls and remove dust, dirt, and cobwebs. For best results, use Swiffer varieties designed for dry dusting and delicately wipe rather than scrub walls. Avoid overly wet cleaning and harsh scrubbing. With the right Swiffer product and gentle technique, you can safely freshen up walls as part of your home cleaning routine. But also consider alternative specialized wall cleaning tools that may work better for delicate surfaces. Check your walls regularly when cleaning for any damage or issues. Focus on gentle, dry dusting methods to keep walls looking their best.