Lime finishes – whether paint or plaster – are living, breathing, and deeply sensory.
They create soft, velvety interiors that develop an elegant patina over time.
To preserve their beauty and extend their durability, appropriate maintenance is essential.
Here are our tips for respecting the mineral nature of your walls and allowing them to age gracefully.
⸻ 1. Understanding lime surfaces
Before discussing maintenance, let's remember that lime is an alkaline material (with a high pH). This alkalinity gives it its antibacterial properties and longevity. It remains microporous, allowing the substrate to breathe, making it an ideal choice for a healthy home. However, this alkalinity makes it sensitive to overly acidic products (like vinegar) which can attack the surface and alter the color.
⸻ 2. Gentle and respectful cleaning
What to favor
• Liquid black soap (diluted in lukewarm water). It is ideal for cleaning light stains, while lightly nourishing the surface.
• Neutral organic soap (Marseille soap or Castile soap type). Mixed with lukewarm water, it cleans gently without damaging the lime.
• Soft cloth or natural sponge. Avoid abrasive brushes that may polish or unevenly shine the surface.
⸻ 3. What to avoid
• Acidic products (vinegar, lemon)
• Harsh detergents or chemical solvents
• Cleaners containing ammonia or bleach
• High-pressure jets
⸻ 4. Maintenance of lime paint
Lime paint is delicate but easy to refresh.
- Regular dusting with a duster or dry cloth to prevent dirt from embedding.
- Localized cleaning with a very diluted black soap solution for small splashes (especially in kitchens).
- Easy touch-ups: if an area is too stained, you can apply a thin layer of the same diluted paint to unify the appearance, or use our annual maintenance service.
⸻ 4. Maintenance of lime plaster
Plaster, thicker and more mineral than paint, is generally more resistant.
• Gentle washing with natural soapy water for high-traffic areas or superficial stains.
• Possible protection: in damp rooms or areas of frequent contact, a wax or finishing soap can be applied to enhance impermeability, while maintaining breathability.
⸻ 5. Our flagship product
Ready-to-use formula, based on camelina black soap. 100% natural and biodegradable, this soap serves as protection (like a sealant) and for daily cleaning of mineral surfaces like lime plasters and paints. Its gentle action forms a protective barrier that facilitates maintenance while preserving the breathability of the material.
Ideal for walls, countertops, showers, fireplaces, and other protected indoor surfaces, this black soap advantageously replaces conventional cleaning products that are often too harsh for natural lime finishes.
100% local Quebec product.
⸻ 5. Living with patina
Lime surfaces are not meant to remain immutable. They evolve with time, light, and seasons. This natural patina is what makes them unique and authentic. Rather than trying to keep them "perfect," adopt a respectful approach and let them tell your story.
Maintaining your lime walls doesn't require complicated products: a simple black soap or organic soap is enough. The key is to respect their mineral nature, avoid acids, and favor gentle cleaning. This way, your surfaces will remain beautiful, healthy, and elegant for years to come.
At Domeco, we believe that every wall is a living work of art. Taking care of your lime finishes means extending this sensory experience and honoring the craftsmanship behind each project.