Most tenants don’t realise this, but walls are one of the biggest reasons bonds get hit. In Queensland alone, rental authorities consistently report that wall marks, stains, and grease are among the top causes of bond disputes. The problem? Many renters assume walls fall under “fair wear and tear”.

Under Australian tenancy laws, walls must be left “reasonably clean” at the end of a lease — not perfect, but definitely not marked, greasy, or stained.

The good news? You don’t need to repaint or panic. With the right method, you can clean walls properly, avoid damage, and save yourself hundreds in bond deductions.

This guide walks you through:

• How to assess wall condition and paint type
  
• The safest cleaning methods that pass inspections
  
• How to remove common stains without ruining paint
  
• State-specific bond clean expectations
  

 Time estimate: Around 4–6 hours for an average home, depending on wall condition.

Preparation Before You Start

Wall Assessment & Paint Identification

Before touching water or cleaner, inspect your walls top to bottom in good lighting. Look for:

• Hand marks around switches
  
• Scuffs near doorways
  
• Grease in kitchens
  
• Mould in bathrooms
  

It’s important to tell stains apart from fair wear and tear. Minor fading or light rubbing is normal. Heavy marks and grease are not.

Common paint types in Aussie rentals:

Always clean gently first — damage from over-scrubbing can cost more than dirt.

Tools & Supplies You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy gear. Most of this is available from Bunnings or Coles.

• Microfibre cloths (non-scratch)
  
• Soft sponge
  
• Magic eraser (use carefully)
  
• Bucket of warm water
  
• White vinegar
  
• Mild dish soap
  
• Baking soda
  
• Rubbing alcohol (for ink)
  
• Gloves
  
• Step ladder
  
• Soft brush (for textured walls)
  

 Always test cleaners on a hidden spot first, especially on matte paint.

Setup Steps

• Move furniture away from walls
  
• Lay towels or drop sheets on floors
  
• Open windows for ventilation
  
• Turn off power near wet areas if needed
  

Core Wall Cleaning Process

Step 1: Dusting the Walls First

Before using water, dry dust everything.

• Use a vacuum with brush attachment or wall duster
  
• Start from ceilings and cornices
  
• Pay attention to corners, vents, and door frames
  

This stops dust turning into muddy streaks later.

Step 2: General Wall Wash

For overall cleaning, mix:

• 1 part white vinegar
• 10 parts warm water
  
• Optional: a drop of mild dish soap
  

How to clean properly:

1. Dip sponge and wring until just damp
   
2. Clean in small sections (top to bottom)
   
3. Use gentle circular motions
   
4. Rinse sponge often
   

Why this works:

• Prevents drip marks
  
• Avoids shiny patches
  
• Keeps paint intact
  

Step 3: Removing Common Wall Stains

This is where most bonds are won or lost. Use the right method for the right stain.

1. Fingerprints & Scuff Marks

• Use a damp magic eraser
  
• Light pressure only
  
• Stop as soon as mark fades
  

2. Crayon, Marker & Pen

• Dab rubbing alcohol on cloth
  
• Gently blot — don’t rub
  
• Test first on matte paint
  

3. Grease (Kitchens & Dining Areas)

• Mix baking soda with water into paste
  
• Apply to stain and wait 5 minutes
  
• Wipe off gently with damp cloth
  

4. Mould (Bathrooms & Laundries)

• Spray 3% hydrogen peroxide
  
• Leave 10 minutes
  
• Wipe clean and ventilate area

Never mix with vinegar or bleach.

5. Nicotine or Smoke Residue

• Use vinegar solution
  
• Blot rather than scrub
  
• Repeat if needed
  

Special Wall Types & Final Checks

Cleaning by Wall Type

Rinse, Dry & Inspect

• Lightly wipe cleaned areas with plain water
  
• Dry with microfibre cloth or fan
  
• Inspect walls at an angle using natural light
  
• Take photos for your records
  

Bond Clean Compliance & Pro Tips

Wall Cleaning Expectations by State

Hire professionals if:

• Walls have heavy grease or smoke damage
  
• Paint is fragile or flaking
  
• Mould keeps returning
  

Prevention tip: Remove and wipe light switches and outlet covers — inspectors always check there.