Clean Dirty Walls With Degreaser

Paint won’t bond to greasy or filthy surfaces, like kitchen walls above a stove, mudrooms where kids kick off their muddy boots and scuff the walls or the areas around light switches that get swatted at with dirty hands. “I always use a degreaser to clean grimy or greasy surfaces,” a pro tells PM. “It cuts through almost anything you have on walls for better paint adhesion.”

Be sure to read the label and follow directions—this stuff is potent. Rubber gloves and eye protection are required.