Skirting boards play a subtle yet essential role in maintaining a polished and tidy look in your home. Often overlooked during cleaning routines, these small details can significantly impact your room’s overall freshness and cleanliness when properly maintained. Dirty or dusty skirting boards can make even the cleanest space appear neglected. This quick guide outlines the best way to clean skirting boards efficiently for a crisp, neat finish.
Why Clean Your Skirting Boards?
Before jumping into the cleaning process, understanding the benefits of fresh skirting boards can help motivate this often-forgotten task.
Improves Home Aesthetics
Dust-free skirting boards elevate the overall appearance of your home. Clean lines free from dirt and scuff marks provide a polished, well-maintained look.
Enhances Indoor Air Quality
Skirting boards often accumulate dust and allergens. Regular cleaning helps reduce dust buildup and improves indoor air quality, particularly important for those with allergies.
Extends Durability
Over time, neglected skirting boards can deteriorate from grime, scratches, and discoloration. Keeping them clean preserves the paint or varnish and prolongs their lifespan.
Prevents Dirt Buildup
Routine cleaning prevents tough grime and stains from settling, saving you time and effort in the long run.
Now that you’re convinced of the benefits, let’s break down the steps to cleaning your skirting boards effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Skirting Boards
Step 1: Dust off Loose Dirt
Start by dusting the surface of your skirting boards. Use a microfiber cloth, duster, or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust, cobwebs, and loose dirt. Make sure to cover the top edge, front surface, and corners.
Pro Tip: Wrap an old sock over a ruler to reach narrow gaps or intricately designed skirting boards.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
For most skirting boards, a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap works wonders. Test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the paint or finish.
If your skirting boards have stubborn stains or grease marks, add a splash of white vinegar to your solution for extra cleaning power.
Step 3: Wipe Down Your Skirting Boards
Dip a sponge or soft cloth into the cleaning solution, wring it out so it’s damp (not soaking), and wipe along the skirting boards. Work in sections to ensure you don’t miss a spot. Pay extra attention to corners and edges, where dirt often collects.
Pro Tip: Use an old toothbrush or a small brush to tackle those hard-to-reach areas or grooves.
Step 4: Address Scuff Marks
For scuff marks, gently rub the affected area with a melamine foam pad (often sold as a “magic eraser”). Always test the pad on an inconspicuous spot beforehand, as it can be slightly abrasive.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry
After cleaning, rinse your skirting boards with a separate cloth dampened in plain water to remove residue. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe them down and prevent streaks or watermarks.
Step 6: Add the Final Touch
Once your skirting boards are spotless and dry, consider buffing them with a fabric softener sheet. This leaves a light, pleasant scent and minimizes static, helping repel dust for longer.