How to Clean Paneling for Painting

Clean paneling thoroughly before you paint over it.

When the darkness and dreariness of wood paneling finally prompts you to make a change, consider one of the more simple options for redecorating a paneled room. By simply painting over paneling, you can lighten the colors and give a room an entirely new look. Take proper steps to prepare the paneling before you apply the paint to ensure the paint adheres well to the wood surface. Cleaning paneling frees it of dirt and dust, making it ready to accept the paint.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Dishwashing detergent
• Cleaning cloth
• Towels

Instructions

1. Place two or three squirts of dishwashing detergent into the bottom of the bucket. Fill the bucket almost to the top and agitate the water with your hands to make suds.

2. Saturate the cleaning cloth in the sudsy water and wring it out well.

3. Wipe the entire surface of the paneling with the soapy cleaning cloth. Keep dipping the cloth into the bucket to replenish the soap on the cloth, wringing it out well each time. Do not apply too much water to the paneling while cleaning it--keep the cleaning cloth damp only.

4. Pour out the soapy water when you finish washing the paneling. Fill the bucket with plain water and dip the cleaning cloth in the water. Wring out well. Wipe the paneling with the damp cloth to rinse away soap residues.

5. Dry the paneling surface lightly with the towels. Allow the paneling to dry completely before you proceed with the painting project.

Tips & Warnings

• Stand on a stepladder, if necessary, to reach the upper heights of the paneling.

References

• HGTV: Tips for Painting Paneling
• Better Homes and Gardens: How to Paint Wood Paneling