Cleaning skirting boards can be a hassle. The stains can be very stubborn, you need to know how to deal with dust and dirt, and take a different approach based on the materials used. Preventing dust and dirt from building up is essential, as grime can build up over time and become difficult to remove. If not cleaned regularly, skirting boards can look dirty, worn, or stained. It’s important to clean the entire surface of the skirting board to ensure a uniform and fresh appearance. Both skirting boards and walls can accumulate dust and stains, so maintaining them together helps keep your interior looking its best.
So, we’re here with to-the-point, tried-and-true, actionable advice that you can apply straight to your skirting boards – or whoever’s boards you might be cleaning. Let’s get going!
Introduction: Why Clean Skirting Boards?
Skirting boards are often overlooked, but keeping them clean is essential for a tidy and healthy home. These boards cover the joint between your wall and floor, making them magnets for dust, dirt, and debris. Without regular cleaning, skirting boards can develop tough stains and stubborn dirt that are much harder to remove later on. Clean skirting boards instantly freshen up a room, giving it a polished, well-cared-for look. Plus, by preventing dust and dirt from building up, you help protect the boards from long-term damage and keep your home environment healthier. In this guide, you’ll find essential tips for cleaning skirting boards, tackling stains, and maintaining spotless boards with minimal effort.
Preparation: Dust and Vacuum
The first step is dusting, which is essential before vacuuming, to gently remove loose dust and dirt from the skirting boards. The first is removing loose dust with a vacuum cleaner. Use a brush attachment! Vacuuming with the appropriate attachment is effective for cleaning skirting boards, as it helps remove dust, hair, and debris from the surfaces. The vacuum brush attachment is an essential tool for reaching into corners and along edges. Always remove dust thoroughly before proceeding to any wet cleaning methods. Just gently vacuum along the top edge and the front face of the boards, no need to go super-deep. And for corners and intricate details, use a cotton swab to dislodge dust.
- Pro Tip: Pet owners may find pet hair collected along their skirting boards. The brush attachment helps capture this effectively without scattering the hair.
Choosing the Right Tools for the Job
Having the right tools makes cleaning skirting boards much easier and more effective. Start with a vacuum cleaner fitted with a soft brush attachment to remove loose dust and debris from the boards. A microfibre cloth is essential for wiping down the surface and dealing with stubborn stains without scratching the paint or finish. For deeper cleaning, use warm soapy water or a specialized board cleaner, applied with a soft cloth or sponge. A spray bottle can help you apply cleaning solutions evenly, while a small brush is perfect for getting into hard to reach areas and corners. Choosing gentle, non-abrasive tools ensures you can clean your skirting boards thoroughly without causing any damage.
First Step: Wipe Down with Soapy Water
Prepare a water solution by mixing 2-3 drops of mild dish soap into a gallon of warm water. For best results, use a ratio of one part soap to several parts water, ensuring the mixture is gentle on your surfaces. Dip a microfiber cloth into the soapy water and wring it out well – the cloth should be damp, not dripping wet! Wipe down the skirting boards from one end to the other, then wipe clean with a fresh cloth to remove any soap residue. This method thoroughly cleans the skirting boards, removing dirt and build-up effectively.
- Pro Tip: For sticky spots, like dried food splatters, apply extra pressure with the damp cloth to lift the residue.
Second Step: Scrub Stubborn Stains
Make a paste using 2 tablespoons of baking soda and a small amount of water (about 1 tablespoon). Apply the paste to the stained areas with an old toothbrush or a small scrubbing brush. Gently rub in circular motions until the stain is lifted. Some stains may require special attention—be careful not to use too much pressure to avoid damaging the surface.
- Pro Tip: If your child has marked the skirting boards with crayons, the baking soda paste can effectively remove these stains without damaging the paint.
Third Step: Tackle Scuff Marks with Vinegar
Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 2 cups of water to create an acidic solution. Dampen a microfiber cloth with this solution and rub it over scuffs and other marks. The acidity of the vinegar helps break down the scuffs without harming the paint. After cleaning, rinse the area with clean water to remove any residue and prevent streaks.
- Pro Tip: Test the vinegar solution on a small, inconspicuous area first, especially on dark-colored skirting boards, to make sure there is no discoloration.
Fourth Step: Clean Corners and Intricate Details
Dip cotton swabs into the soapy water or vinegar solution to clean corners and intricate surfaces of skirting boards. These surfaces often trap dust and grime that a larger cloth can’t reach.
- Pro Tip: Older homes might have decorative skirting boards with detailed designs. When cleaning these detailed or painted surfaces, be careful to avoid damaging the finish. Using cotton swabs ensures these areas are thoroughly cleaned without damaging the detailing.
Special Care: Cleaning Wooden Skirting Boards
Wooden skirting boards need a little extra attention to keep them looking their best. Always use a soft cloth or microfibre cloth to avoid scratching the wood. For everyday cleaning, a gentle solution of equal parts white vinegar and water works well—just remember to spot test on a hidden area first. If you encounter stains, a baking soda paste or a wood-specific cleaner can help, but always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damaging the finish. Steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive pads, as these can strip away the protective layer or harm the wood. Wipe the boards gently and dry them thoroughly to keep your wooden skirting boards clean and in great condition.
Final Stage: Dry and Buff, Then Apply Polish or Cleaner
This is important – wooden skirting boards need to be completely dry to prevent warping or swelling. So, after cleaning, wipe the skirting boards down with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or residue. Then, dry the skirting boards using a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
Wipe them down to remove any excess moisture. Buff the skirting boards to a shine, which also helps remove remaining dust particles.
Lastly, take your preferred furniture polish and follow the instructions. In most cases, you need to apply a thin layer of polish using a microfiber cloth. Wipe along the length of the skirting boards, ensuring even coverage.
- Pro Tip: For wooden skirting boards, using a lemon oil-based polish nourishes the wood and provides a pleasant scent. Most products recommend applying a dime-sized amount of polish per foot of skirting board.
Skirting Board Maintenance: Keeping Them Clean Longer
To keep your skirting boards looking spotless, make regular cleaning part of your routine. Dust the boards weekly with a long handled duster or a skirting board buddy to prevent dust and pet hair from building up, especially in hard to reach areas. Every few months, give your skirting boards a deeper clean to tackle stubborn stains and dirt that may have settled along the edges and corners. Pay extra attention to these spots, as debris tends to collect there. Using the right tools and cleaning solutions will make the job easier and help maintain the boards’ appearance. With a consistent cleaning routine, you’ll keep your skirting boards clean, prevent dust buildup, and enjoy a fresher, more inviting home.
Additional Tips on Cleaning Skirting Boards
Instead of a generic summary, we would like to offer you a few extra tips as a parting gift for staying with us. Have a good one!
- Secret Weapon: Use fabric softener sheets to reduce static and repel dust. After cleaning, wipe the skirting boards with a dryer sheet to keep them dust-free longer.
- DIY Cleaning Solution: For a gentle homemade cleaner, mix four parts water to one part white vinegar for tough stains. This solution cuts through grime and disinfects without harsh chemicals.
- Microfiber Mop: For hard-to-reach places or if bending down is difficult, clean skirting boards without bending by using a microfiber mop, long-handled duster, or extendable brush. These tools make it easy to maintain your skirting boards while standing.
- Before Painting: Always clean your skirting boards thoroughly before painting to ensure a smooth, professional finish.
- Manufacturer’s Guidelines: When using commercial cleaning products, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damaging your skirting boards.
- Local Store: Visit your local store for specialized skirting board cleaning tools or products that can make the job easier.
For more advice on home cleaning and maintenance, feel free to explore our other resources!
