Drywall compound is best removed when still wet.
Joint compound is applied to all drywall joints (and screw or nail heads) after the drywall sections have been installed to both the ceiling and walls and drywall mesh tape has been stuck over all joints. The compound takes roughly 24 hours to dry completely, and creates a seal that is aesthetically pleasing and also acts as a fire barrier. Because the compound becomes hard when dry, it is best cleaned when still wet. However, it can be removed from flat surfaces with a drywall or putty knife, if completely dried.
Instructions
1. Wet a sponge in hot soapy water. Wipe the sponge over the surface that contains the wet compound. After each wipe, clean the sponge in the soapy solution, and wipe the surface again. Continue this process until the surface is free of all wet joint compound. After use, thoroughly clean the sponge with hot water. However, if the compound has dried, it must be mostly removed with a drywall knife or putty knife.
2. Wipe the wet, soapy sponge over the dried compound surface to help remove any fragments or partially dry compound. Continue wiping the drywall compound several times, to allow the solution to seep into the dried compound and loosen it up. Wait 15 minutes for the solution to loosen the compound.
3. Rest the flat edge of a drywall knife or putty knife at a 45-degree angle on the flat surface and against the compound. Push or tap the blade edge against the compound with your hand, forcing it out of place. Run the soapy sponge over the compound once some of the compound has been removed by the drywall or putty knife. Wait for the solution to seep into the compound, and use the drywall or putty knife again. Repeat the two-step process until the compound has been removed.
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