Learn all about how to clean baseboards and how to keep them cleaner longer! I have a simple 5-step method that you have to see to believe!
How To Clean Baseboards
Have you ever wondered how to clean baseboards? I have tried many, many methods, and I thought I would share what I have found to be the best way to clean baseboards!
I can tell you that this small area….that one small ledge….is my nemesis! How do you clean them and keep them clean longer? I have the answer for you! And it is so simple that you probably have everything that you need on hand already!
So, grab the supplies below and let's clean those baseboards!
Supplies Needed To Clean Baseboards:
- Brush
- Broom and dustpan
- Sponge or Magic Eraser
- Spray bottle with water
- Cotton swabs
- Dryer sheets
Step 1: Brush Dirt From Your Baseboards
Start by brushing away any dirt from your baseboards. I used a small brush, but you can use whatever tool works for you! One of those mini brooms would work just as well. Just try eliminating the dust from the area, and that will help you to make this entire process quicker.
Once you brush it away, be sure to use a broom and dustpan to get it out of your way completely. You don't want that dust ending up back on your freshly cleaned baseboards.
Step 2: Spray Baseboards With Water
Next, we need to get the area damp. I find a spray bottle with water works best for this task. Just spray down one small area at a time.
Step 3: Go Over Baseboard With Magic Eraser
Use a sponge or Magic Eraser to go over the wet area. I personally love the Magic Eraser because it allows me to wipe away any scuff marks while I am down there cleaning. I'm frankly a Magic Eraser junkie, however! And I really don't know how I functioned without them!
Yes, my baseboards were DIRTY! Check out the Magic Eraser after going over this area. You can rinse the sponge or Magic Eraser as needed during the process. Keeping a bucket of water nearby for this task will make the process a bit quicker.
Step 4: Clean Corners Of Baseboard
So what about those pesky corners and hard-to-reach areas? I find that damp cotton swabs do the job really well! You can also try to use an old toothbrush. Anything small that will fit into all of those cracks and crevices.
Step 5: Run Dryer Sheet Along Baseboard
Now for the secret you have all been waiting for! How do you keep those baseboards clean for longer?
Allow the area to dry, then run a dryer sheet along the entire baseboard. This not only repels dirt and static, but it will put a coating on the area so that dust, pet hair, and more just fall right off. Amazing right? Give it a try in your own home! You will not be disappointed!
What do you think of my step-by-step cleaning for baseboards? Is this truly the best way to clean baseboards? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below. Perhaps you have some tips and tricks that you can teach me when it comes to this nightmarish task!
Also, if you are looking for even more cleaning tips, you can check all of our popular tips, tricks, and hacks by clicking here!
Tips and Tricks for How To Clean Baseboards
Now that you’ve learn how to clean baseboards, are you ready to clean your own? Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure that your cleaning goes as smoothly as possible!
- Work In Small Sections – Most likely, you have baseboards in almost every room of your home. Due to that, don't feel like you have to clean everything in one day! Instead, work in small sections or by room to make your cleaning easier.
- Test Small Areas – When doing anytype of cleaning, make sure you test a small area to avoid any damage to your baseboards.
- Find Products/Cleaning Methods That Work Best For You – If you have a difficult time bending over to clean, you can easily swap out the products I used to clean my baseboards! For example, instead of a handheld brush, you can use a broom. Also, instead of using a handheld Magic Eraser, you can use a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Standard Mop instead.
Want To See My Favorite Cleaning Supplies & Products?
I have gathered all of the products I love using around my home into one great section of my Amazon storefront. You can click here to shop! If you're looking for just about anything to clean your home, I probably have an option that you will love!
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Did you love learning how to clean baseboards, and need more cleaning tips and hacks? Then check out the blog posts below!
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I’m thinking about attaching the dryer sheet to a Swiffer mop. It would be easier on my back!!
That would be smart! Let me know if it works!
I enjoy cleaning but like to know the easiest way
I agree, and I find I enjoy cleaning more when I know I’m working smart! 🙂
Why would you not use a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to get rid of the dust and pet hair. I am a little OCD so my baseboards get vacuumed often!
The absolute best way to clean baseboards at my house is – – – my granddaughter!!! She works cheap and I am 74 yo and cannot get down that far to clean anymore.
Yay for granddaughters! I’m glad you’re able to get the help you need!
I clean mine like yours but it is the last, dryer sheet, that wowed me. That is the magic step. Thank you! BTW if you’ve a bad back, this on hands and knees job eases your back.
I’m so glad you found it helpful!
I use JOHNSON’S scrubbing bubbles and a wet micro fiber cloth. Spray all baseboards and come back and wipe. No scrubbing on your part
Does the dryer sheet condition the base boards? We have oak trim all throughout the house. Not painted.
Sorry, I’m not sure if it conditions or not.
I love magic erasers, I use them on my banister at home and door frames. It seems to me that they leave a sticky residue behind though~ even if I’ve used a clean damp washcloth afterward. Maybe the dryer sheet will help with that, I’ll give it a try. Thanks for tips and article…perfect late summer project.
I hope it helps! Definitely let us know 🙂
Love what JaneEllen said…it sounds so much like my house!!! Lol! I am having to take care of my brother’s elderly dog that sheds everywhere and then some!! My husband tracks grass everywhere as well. I have to swiffer every other day as well as mop every 2-3 days. The base boards look horrible! I’ve been looking for a easier way to clean them, because I have MS and have been out of work on disability for the past 6-7 years (sorry my memory is gone too🫤). I even bought this swiffer looking thing that bends at the end to clean the base boards but haven’t used it yet. My knees are also bone on bone, back has had 2 surgeries, and bad neck. 😬🙁
Rebecca, first let me say, I hope your doing well. I know about MS bc we have it in our family. I wish you well. My body has changed bc I fell down from basement steps and broke my tailbone. Then years later, cancer. But now in remission. However, I am slower and have back problem’s so I will do what she suggests and after I will use my Swiffer. My sister in law gave me a swifter to clean my ceiling fans. It bends and does a fabulous job. I will get one for my baseboard to. They really work. I to have a husband that bring grass/dirt in the house and have a hairy loveable dog. I’m 63 years young but definitely slower, lol. Thanks for this post
What is a dryer sheet,? Where do I buy one,?
Like a Bounce fabric softener dryer sheet. You can buy them at any grocery store 🙂
We have two cold air exchange vents. They pick up dust and dog hair like crazy. I use dryer sheets that we’ve already used and they pick up the dust and hair off the vents like crazy.
Thanks for this tip. I’m going to try this with my vents.
Why do you spray the wood work instead of just wetting the magic eraser?
That is just the way I do it.
A vacuum cleaner with the brush attachment works great.
Awesome, thanks for sharing 🙂
Instead of a cotton swab, use a small paint brush!
Great tip! Thanks for sharing 🙂
I’ll have to try that. I have used Q-tips and toothbrushes for my cleaning for years bc it can get into areas that are hard to clean. Thanks for the to
Do you think you could use the dryer sheet on wood furniture to repel dust?
I would definitely test an area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the finish or the wood itself.
I love magic erasers ! I was a custodian in a school for 16 years, we used them to clean very thing in the summer. I use them on every thing in my house also. Love the idea of the drier sheets, will have to try them.
I can’t wait to hear what you think about the dryer sheets!
I love my window blinds, but I HATE, cleaning them. I’m going to try your ‘baseboard cleaning trick’ on them. Thank you
Thanks for the tips! I’m going to try what you suggested.
I’m so glad you found them helpful 🙂
I’m going to try your dryer sheet trick. I have many and deep mouldings all through my home (that I love!). However, I’d use caution spraying water directly on your mouldings if they are MDF! Just a damp Mr Clean eraser might be better – I use and like them too. As well, I dust all my mouldings every other week with a separate (from my regular dusting) Swifter duster – keeps them from getting dirty in the first place.
Does the dryer sheet leave a film kinda like wax on a floor?
Not that I have noticed.
Great tips, Angie! We’re getting ready to start some deep summer cleaning, including carpet cleaning, so we’ll be sure to tackle the baseboards after that is done. Thanks again.
Best of luck to you getting it all done 🙂
Love these tips! I recently had carpet cleaning in my house for a few rooms, and these ideas will be perfect for helping me keep the rooms looking their best. It’s all about maintenance!
I just have to add to the Comments about the Magic Eraser, I was in the Original test group and also in the very first Commercial .’It Does What the Name Says”