How to clean dirty baseboards like a pro
Baseboards are an often a neglected part of house cleaning routine. As a result, they collect dust, dirt, and debris over time and can become dull and dingy. Fortunately, you can keep your baseboards clean with a little effort. Here’s how to clean dirty baseboards and make them shine.
What you need to clean dirty baseboards
- Vacuum cleaner with attachment
- Swiffer duster / dry microfiber cloth or a dust mop ( I use Swiffer duster)
- Microfiber cloths
- Warm soapy water (optional)
- Cleaning solution: Liquid dish soap/Mild/all-purpose cleaner (I use all-purpose cleaner)
- Soft bristle brush/Oxo good grip deep cleaning brush/crevice cleaning brush
- A bucket and/or a spray bottle (for mixing and storing your solution)
- Polish ( I use orange glo wood polish)
How to Clean dirty baseboards in 7 simple steps
1.Vacuum / Dust
The first step in cleaning baseboards is to vacuum them. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum or a Swiffer duster to clean the loose dust and dirt on the baseboards. Be sure to get into the nooks and crannies and vacuum the corners and edges.
2.Prepare the Cleaning solution
Mix your cleaning solution in a bucket or spray bottle. If using vinegar, a ratio of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water works well.
3.Wipe Down
Once you’ve vacuumed, or dust you’ll want to wipe down the baseboards with a damp microfiber cloth . Immerse the cleaning cloth in warm, soapy water or cleaning solution and wring out excess water.
Or spray an all-purpose cleaner on the cloth to make it wet. The wet cloth will help to remove any remaining dirt and debris. Next, spray or use a damp microfiber cloth dipped in a gentle cleaning solution or an all-purpose cleaner on the baseboards, then gently wipe off or clean.
4.Scrub
If the baseboards are still dirty, you may need to scrub them gently with a soft-bristled brush. First, use a gentle circular motion to work the cleaning solution into the baseboards. Then, use the Oxo good grip deep cleaning brush to clean tough stains or reach your baseboard’s crannies and corners.
5.Rinse
Once you’ve scrubbed the baseboards, you must rinse them off. Use a clean microfiber cloth and warm water or all – purpose cleaner to remove any remaining residue.
6.Dry
After rinsing, you’ll want to dry the baseboards. Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to gently pat the baseboards dry. Be sure to get into all the corners and edges.
7.Polish
Once you’ve scrubbed the baseboards, you must rinse them off. Use a clean microfiber cloth and warm water, or an all-purpose cleaner, to remove any remaining residue. Apply the polish to make them shine.
8.Seal (optional)
To help protect your baseboards from moisture and debris, you’ll want to seal them. Use a sealant designed for baseboards to protect them from damage.
Note: For maintenance purposes, dust the baseboards often to reduce dust and dirt buildup.
These steps will help you deep-clean your baseboards and make them shine. Use the all-purpose cleaning solution and a soft-bristled brush to avoid damaging the baseboards.
5 ways to clean dirty baseboards without bending.
Is it possible to clean your baseboards without bending over? Yes it is possible .There are commercial baseboard cleaning tools to make your work easily or you can as well improvise your own DIY tool for the job.
Here are 5 different ways you can clean your baseboards without bedding.
1. Long hand held duster / dust mop :
Use a long-handled duster or dust mop to remove loose dust and debris from the baseboards. Ensure the tool is clean to avoid pushing dirt around.
2.Long handheld broom
Attach a damp microfiber cloth to a long-handled broom for easy reach. Remember to secure it with a rubber band or string. Wipe the baseboards with the fabric in a sweeping motion.
3.Long Swiffer sweeper
You can also use a long Swiffer sweeper with a microfiber cloth attached to it to wipe the baseboards.
4.You can also use a spin mob.
Use a spin mop with two mop heads – one should be damp and another dry. Use the damp head to wipe the surfaces and the dry one for drying.
5. Long hand held scrub brush
If you encounter stubborn stains, use the long-handled scrub brush to scrub those areas gently.
If you need help cleaning your baseboards, get a professional cleaning service to do the job. Professionals will provide the expertise and tools required to complete the job.
