Cleaning baseboards is a hassle. Continuously crouching, standing, and kneeling will take a toll on your back. Luckily, there is a way to leave your fixtures spotless without straining yourself, and here you’ll learn about it.
Step #1. Choose the right tool
Picking the right tool is key for cleaning your baseboards in the easiest way possible.
Bought: Buying a tool doesn’t mean you’ll need to spend tons of money getting super-specialized devices. Instead, focus on getting a tool long enough to reach your baseboards without extra effort—a Swiffer or a dust mop will do the job just fine, thanks to their flexible head.
DIY: You can still spare the bending-over part using everyday household items if you don’t want to spend any money. Just wrap a microfiber cloth over the brush end of a broom and secure it tightly with zip ties or rubber bands.
Step #2. Dust the baseboards
This step is important to avoid making a mess further ahead when water gets involved. To do it, grab your cleaning tool and dust your fixtures from top to bottom. Once you finish, sweep or vacuum the fallen dust off the floor to avoid it from re-settling on your baseboards.
Step #3. Clean your baseboards
Now, you’ll need to prepare a cleaning solution. Do it by filling half a bucket with water and adding a trickle of dish soap. Once the solution is ready, dip your cleaning tool and wring it to remove the excess water.
If your bucket doesn’t include a wringer, place it on a little stool or something elevated so you won’t have to bend over. Wringing your tool well is crucial if you have MDF or wooden baseboards, as too much water could make them swell or warp.
When you are ready to start, use your dampened tool to wipe the baseboards gently. Keep your back straight while you clean (you can also sit on a chair). Also, there’s no need to apply too much pressure; most stains will eventually come off as long as you keep wiping.
How to deal with stubborn stains
Don’t strain yourself if you spot a tough stain. For plastic baseboards, spray some degreaser on your tool and wipe. If you have wood or MDF baseboards, dampen your cleaning tool with mineral spirits instead.
Let the solution sit for a few minutes to lessen the elbow grease needed. Then, rinse your cleaning tool and use it to remove the dirt.
Step #4. Rinse and dry the baseboards
Don’t forget to dry your baseboards before finishing. Otherwise, marks could appear, or the material can get damaged—MDF baseboards can even disintegrate if they absorb too much water.
If possible, replace the cloth you are using; if not, rinse and wring your cleaning tool. Then, dry your baseboards as thoroughly as you can.
Extra tip: Once the baseboards are dry, wipe them with dryer sheets to keep the surface dust-free for longer.
We can help you to clean your baseboards!
If cleaning your baseboards is still too much hassle, Mya Cleaning Services will gladly do it! Besides dusting and wiping your fixtures, our expert cleaners remove even the most stubborn grime in your house. You can ask for a free quote online!