Effective Ways to Clean Nicotine-Stained Walls
Nicotine from cigarette smoke can leave behind a yellow residue that stains walls and windows. This residue can accumulate over time, making it challenging to remove. More importantly, the health hazard presented by nicotine buildup on walls, often referred to as “thirdhand smoke” by medical professionals, is a significant concern. One effective solution is using Trisodium Phosphate for cleaning these stubborn stains.
Option 1: Using Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) to Clean Nicotine-Stained Walls
The best commercial cleaner for nicotine on walls is a product containing Trisodium Phosphate or TSP. TSP is a general-purpose cleaner found in most home improvement stores.
Before cleaning the wall, lay a tarp on the floor to protect it from drips. It’s also advisable to wear cleaning gloves, as TSP can irritate the skin.
To remove nicotine from walls using Trisodium Phosphate, follow the directions on the label for the proper water-to-cleaner ratio. Dip a sponge or scrub brush in the cleaning solution and wipe or scrub until the stain disappears. It may take several passes for stains that have built up over time. Rinse the sponge in clean water and wipe the area clean of the cleanser.
Alternative Option: Using KILZ Max
KILZ Max If you’re looking for an alternative to using Trisodium Phosphate for cleaning, consider KILZ Max. This new-generation water-based primer, sealer, and stain blocker perform as well as traditional oil and shellac-based primers. It tackles tough stains including severe water damage, rust, smoke, nicotine, grease, tannin, ink, pencil, felt marker, pet stains, and more. KILZ Max also seals persistent pet, food, and smoke odors and provides great adhesion for hard-to-adhere surfaces. Once it dries, you can easily sand it and top-coat it with latex or oil-based paint.
Can be top-coated with latex or oil-base paint
For interior use
Low odor