How to Clean Baseboards

 

You probably know that using a consistent routine is the best way to keep your home clean, but you also probably know that there are some forgotten corners that collect dust. An area that often gets overlooked is the baseboards along the walls since you’re so accustomed to ignoring the low framing of your rooms.

 

However, a closer inspection can reveal that a considerable amount of dirt and grime can gather there. Although this buildup can be tough to view, it can be addressed right away. With a few materials from around your home, your baseboards can be restored to a healthier, neater appearance.

 

Keep reading below to find out a quick and best way to clean baseboards, plus a few of our favorite cleaning tips & hacks to keep them cleaner longer and dust-free!

How to Clean Baseboards

 

Vacuum

 

Use the brush attachment on your vacuum to remove pet hair, dust and dirt from the surface of the baseboards. Be sure to clean the crevice between the bottom of the baseboard and the floor. Don’t have a vacuum? Use a small whisk broom to keep them clean.

 

Wipe

 

Once you’ve removed the dust, you’re ready to clean the stuck-on dirt and stains. Baseboards in the kitchen get particularly dirty because they catch food and grease splatters. Mudroom baseboards pick up a lot of grime, too, because your family tracks dirt in from the outdoors.

 

Mix a bucket of warm water, liquid dish soap, and vinegar. Dip a sponge or soft cloth in the mixture and scrub scuffs marks and stains. A melamine sponge (sold under the brand Mr. Clean Magic Eraser) is a good choice for scrubbing tough grime. Be sure to wring out the cloth or sponge thoroughly so you don’t put too much water on the baseboards.

 

Use a toothbrush to clean the grooves of the trim. When you’re done, wipe down your baseboards with a clean towel. Leaving water on them could damage the wood.

 

Clean the Crannies

 

 

Use a cotton swab dipped in the cleaning solution to clean the top of the baseboards and the crevice between the bottom of the baseboards and the floor.

 

Protect

 

Keep your newly clean baseboards dirt-free for as long as possible by rubbing them with a dryer sheet. This prevents the static that attracts dust.

 

 

More Baseboard Cleaning Methods

 

 

Busy schedule? You may need a quicker way cleaning the baseboards in your home. It is not best to rush when you have a significant accumulation. But, once your baseboards are thoroughly cleaned, you can keep the buildup at bay for quicker cleanings in the future. Review these easy steps and add them to your cleaning schedule.

 

Microfiber

 

One easy way to clean baseboards is with a clean microfiber cloth. Simply move furniture out of the way, wipe down the baseboards, and then put everything back into place.

 

Magic Eraser

 

Grab a stack of Magic Erasers (or whichever brand you prefer), a bucket of warm, soapy water (or vinegar and water), and simply swipe dirt from your baseboards. Wring the sponge out well before you wipe, so you don’t leave too-damp boards to dry. If you don’t have painted baseboards, substitute wood cleaner.

 

Vacuum

Add dusting the baseboards to your vacuuming routine by making use of the machine’s attachments. Most vacuums come with a soft brush attachment that can be used for dusting hard surfaces without causing scratches; if your vacuum doesn’t include this useful attachment, one can be purchased separately.

 

Cleaning Wipes

 

Grab a box of cleaning wipes, and wipe well along the baseboards. This is particularly good if you have a small home or do not have a lot of time. The downside is, that any method that uses disposable products is more wasteful than employing reusables.

 

Dryer Sheets

Grab a box of Fabric softener sheets plus a Swiffer and take a swipe of your entire baseboard. The dryer sheets help coat your baseboards with some dust-repelling properties.

 

Broom

 

If you don’t have too grimy baseboards, you might just need a dusting. Make it easier on yourself by using the right tools for the job. Use a mini handheld broom, or, if you don’t have one of those, a clean paintbrush. If you sweep your baseboards this way, you might want to do it before you vacuum your floors to pick up any hair and dust that gets swept off. And if you’ve got a small enough sweeper attachment with bristles for your vacuum, use that to de-dust your boards.

 

FAQs

 

Can you clean baseboards with soap and water?

Fill a bucket of hot water add a few teaspoons of dish soap works best to remove loose dirt and dust without a vacuum cleaner, broom, or duster. Use a microfiber cloth or sponge dipped in the solution to wipe the baseboards.

 

How often do you need to clean baseboards?

If you don’t have time to dust them each time you vacuum, try to do it at least twice a month. Baseboards need a thorough cleaning at least once a year to remove food splatters, scuffs, and stuck-on grime.

 

How do you make old baseboards look new?

Nothing works quite like Magic Erasers, a bucket of warm, soapy water (or vinegar and water!). Wring the sponge out well before you wipe, so you don’t leave too-damp boards to dry. If you don’t have painted baseboards, remember to substitute for wood cleaner.

 

For more tips and tricks for cleaning up around the house, check out our blog! You can also check us out online to browse and book your cleaning services in Boston today! We’re here to help you reach your goal of a happier and healthier home.

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