How Much Does It Cost to Wash Walls and Ceilings in 2025?
The cost to wash walls and ceilings averages $303
Wall and ceiling washing costs range from $169 to $464, averaging $303.
Frequent cleanings remove dirt, allergens, and potential mold to prevent heavy buildup and lower long-term costs.
Hiring a wall cleaning professional ensures thorough, ladder-safe results, particularly on tall walls and intricate corners.
Regular wall maintenance enhances indoor air quality and the overall appearance of your home.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Most homeowners pay between $169 and $464 for wall and ceiling cleaning, with an average cost of $303. In some situations, prices dip to $75 or climb to $900. Where you live, the square footage that needs cleaning, wall height, surface type, and the existing grime all influence the final number. Adding a whole-house deep clean during the same visit can increase the cost by $200 to $400. Hiring a professional cleaning company helps ensure a thorough, proper cleaning to prevent damage and long-term health effects.
Cost to Wash Walls and Ceilings per Square Foot
Professional wall and ceiling washing companies charge between $0.50 and $0.60 per square foot. Depending on the type of wall material, you may pay as low as $0.45 per square foot or as high as $0.65 per square foot. In some cases, pros may charge $70 to $90 per room, depending on the room size.
The table below outlines the average cost of washing your walls.
| Home Size (Sq. Ft.) | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 800 | $400–$520 |
| 1,000 | $500–$600 |
| 1,500 | $750–$900 |
| 1,800 | $900–$1,080 |
| 2,000 | $1,000–$1,200 |
| 2,500 | $1,250–$1,500 |
Wall Washing Cost Factors
The cost of washing your walls can increase depending on several factors, including the need for additional cleaning services. To ensure you understand the prices associated with wall washing, review the cost factors below.
Cleaning Products
Most cleaning professionals rely on standard household cleaners, but if you prefer plant-based or fragrance-free solutions, be sure to confirm this choice upfront. Eco-friendly products may cost more, so ask your cleaner for the exact surcharge before the work begins.
Ceiling Height
High ceilings mean ladders, extra setup, and more time on the job, so expect a modest up‑charge. Discuss the ceiling height with your cleaner during the quote to avoid any surprises later.
Extra Cleaning Services
If you need ceiling fan blades, high shelves, or windows wiped down while the professional is already on site, most cleaners will bundle these tasks for an additional fee—about $10 per window. Bring up every add‑on during the estimate to lock in a firm price and avoid last‑minute charges.
DIY vs. Hiring a Wall Washing Pro
Taking the DIY route can save you $25 to $30 per hour that you would otherwise pay in labor. Still, a vetted wall‑cleaning pro shows up with ladders, safety gear, and the right cleaning solutions, finishing the job quickly and without risk to you. If you want to save time and ensure a proper cleaning, consider outsourcing the job. Reach out to a local wall‑washing service and enjoy spotless walls without hassle, strain, or uncertainty of DIY projects.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Plan on a light wall wash about once a month to keep dust, grease, and stains from settling in. If you have already hired a house-cleaning crew, which costs $15 to $40 per hour, ask them to incorporate this task into their regular visit. Most companies discount 15% to 20% when routine wall washing replaces an occasional, more labor‑intensive deep clean.
The best approach to cleaning walls depends on the type of paint you have. For oil-based finishes, mix warm water, a few drops of dish soap, and a splash of white vinegar. Then, wipe the surface with a microfiber cloth and rinse it thoroughly. Latex paint is more delicate—vacuum first, then use a dry sponge to lift any lingering dirt. Both methods preserve the finish without leaving streaks.
Drying is non‑negotiable after washing your walls. Leaving walls damp invites streaks, water spots, and even mold. After wiping, follow up with a clean towel, then use a squeegee or a box fan to remove the remaining moisture. Completely dry walls stay brighter and resist damage such as peeling, warping, or mildew growth.
Nicotine stains cling to walls and need a heavy‑duty approach. Cleaning professionals charge $200 to $1,000 to strip away the sticky residue with commercial degreasers, intensive scrubbing, and thorough rinsing. The service not only lifts the yellow film but also erases lingering odors, leaving the surface fresh and paint‑ready.
