Cleaning is the Test
Gloss, semi gloss or low luster enamels are less likely to be damaged by cleaning than are most flat latex paints. The first test for quality is to drip or spray a little plain tap water in an inconspicuous area. Cheap paint darkens much more than quality paint. Suffice it to say that the space between pigment is larger, less vehicle holds it together, and the pigment is not ground as finely in cheap paint. By the way, virtually every manufacturer makes some forms of cheap paint. The manufacturers name doesn't mean quality. A $10 gallon of builders flat offers dry hiding, a matt finish, and covers everything, including even the fact that less coats were used. A $20 gallon of the same manufacturers top line finish has more clear vehicle, goes further with finer pigments, washes and cleans up easier, and therefore lasts longer.
Test cleaning in an inconspicuous corner first. If the wall color and finish look the same but cleaner go ahead and use it. Wash or spot clean most painted surfaces with a solution of water and mild detergent (such as hand dish washing liquid), or a mild commercial household cleaner, that says on the label that it is safe for painted surfaces. Rinse it off thoroughly with clear water. Ammonia in all its forms dulls latex gloss paints if left on the surface. If your walls are very dirty, use a stronger alkali solution such as 2 tablespoons ammonia or tablespoon tri-sodium phosphate or 2 tablespoons laundry detergent powder in 1 gallon warm (not hot) water. Stronger solutions will remove some of the paint. Always rinse off. Gloss or semi-gloss enamels are less likely to be damaged by cleaning than is flat latex paint.
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