How to Clean Baseboards the Easiest Way to Banish Dust

There could be dust lurking in your home—all you have to do is look down to see it. Your baseboards collect all the untouched dust behind built-ins, tables, sofas, and more—gross.

It’s important to know how to clean your baseboards, and turns out, there are several easy ways to do it. Depending on how dirty your baseboards are or if you’re dealing with scuffs, you can clean your baseboards with soap and water, vinegar and baking soda, or a mop or broom.

Read on for expert insight on getting your baseboards clean.

How Often to Clean Baseboards

Baseboards should be wiped down on a bi-weekly or monthly basis (or more frequently in busier homes), and deep cleaned once or twice a year. How often you clean your baseboards does depend on the overall foot traffic of your home, but use this as a general rule of thumb.

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Materials

• Vacuum with a brush attachment
• Mild dish soap
• Microfiber cloths
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Spray bottle
• Soft bristle brush
• Melamine sponge
• Broomstick or mop handle

How to Clean Baseboards With Soap and Water 

Cleaning baseboards can be as simple as using a cleaning solution made of soap and water. This method is useful for baseboards with general dust and dirt buildup, according to Diana Ciechorska, general manager of Park Slope Cleaning.

“It’s effective for lightly soiled baseboards with no specific stains,” she says.

1. First, vacuum or dust the baseboards. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment or a dry microfiber cloth to remove any dust and debris.
2. Mix a cleaning solution. Make a cleaning solution in a bucket with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
3. Wipe down the baseboards. Dampen a microfiber cloth in the cleaning solution. Wipe the baseboards using a circular motion. 
4. Dry the baseboards. Use a dry cloth to buff the baseboards. 

How to Clean Baseboards With Vinegar and Baking Soda 

If you have stubborn stains, cleaning your baseboards with vinegar and baking soda is a great solution.

“The vinegar and baking soda combination is a natural cleaning solution that helps break down grime,” Ciechorska says.

The method is virtually the same as above, except your cleaning solution will now be one spray bottle of equal parts white vinegar and water, and you’ll need a separate bowl of baking soda and water paste.

Spray the baseboards first. and then apply the paste. Scrub, wipe, and dry them afterward. 

How to Clean Baseboards With a Melamine Sponge 

If you have baseboards with scuff marks or discoloration, using a melamine sponge (like the Magic Eraser) can help. They’re effective at removing stains, but should be used with care to avoid over-scrubbing and damaging the baseboards. 

1. First, vacuum or dust the baseboards. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment or a dry microfiber cloth to remove any dust and debris.
2. Wet the melamine sponge. Wet the sponge with water and squeeze out any excess liquid. 
3. Scrub the baseboards. Gently scrub the baseboards with the sponge to remove scuffs and stains. 
4. Dry the baseboards. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the baseboards and remove any residue. 

How to Clean Baseboards Without Bending Down 

If you struggle with back or knee pain, can’t bend over for long periods of time to clean your baseboards, or need to clean your baseboards quickly, all you need is a microfiber cloth, broom or mop, and a cleaner.

Spray a microfiber mop with a cleaning solution and secure it to the end of a broomstick or mop. Run the cloth along the baseboards until dirt, dust, and debris are gone. 

How to Keep Baseboards Clean Longer 

In addition to cleaning baseboards on a regular basis, there are a few things you can do to keep them cleaner longer. 

• Buff baseboards with a microfiber cloth or dryer sheet after cleaning to prevent the build up of dust. 
• Clean baseboards at least once a month.
• Avoid hitting the baseboards while you vacuum to prevent chips or scuffs.
• Use a high-gloss paint on baseboards since they’re easier to clean and wipe down. 
• If you have stained wood baseboards, use a specified wood cleaner. Always test on a small area before cleaning the entire surface.