A lot of people might not realise the importance of regularly maintaining their skirting boards, but this one step in the regular home cleaning regime can dramatically improve the atmosphere and impression of a room. If you’re looking to spruce up your space but don’t know where to start, why not try improving the look of your skirting boards? Here is a comprehensive guide to how to clean skirting boards, from organising your supplies to long-lasting protection.
Prepare the Room
Before cleaning skirting boards, it’s important to prepare the room. Start by vacuuming or sweeping the floor around the skirting boards, as well as any other flat surfaces like windowsills or doorsills. This will ensure that dirt isn’t left on the boards after you finish cleaning. If the skirting boards are in a bathroom or kitchen, wipe down any tiles or other surfaces too.
Make sure to clear away any furniture that is close to the skirting boards, such as tables, chairs or sofas. This will make it easier to clean the full length of the boards in one go. Keep in mind that skirting boards often have hard-to-reach gaps, so you may need to use special tools to clean these areas.
It’s also important to check that there aren’t any cracks or dents in the skirting boards before you start cleaning. If there are, fill these in with wood filler or caulk. Doing this now will help prevent dirt from getting into them and make future cleaning easier.
Finally, make sure the room is well-ventilated. Open any windows and doors to let in fresh air and take any safety precautions that may be necessary when working with cleaning products, such as wearing a face mask. Now you are ready to begin cleaning the skirting boards.
Buy the Right Supplies
When it comes to buying supplies to clean skirting boards, it is important to know what kind of supplies you need and what you don’t. Make sure to get all of the necessities before you begin the job. You will need items such as a vacuum cleaner, multi-surface cleaner, and a mild abrasive cleaner. Additionally, you may want to get a sponge, soft cloths, and sealant or wax for protection.
When choosing a vacuum cleaner for this job, make sure it is designed for deep cleaning. If possible, find one that has a brush attachment, which will make it easier to reach between narrow spaces. Similarly, you should look for a multi-surface cleaner that is designed for deep cleaning. A mild abrasive cleaner will be beneficial for getting rid of stubborn marks and stains. For general cleaning, a solution of warm water and dish soap should work well.
Finally, you should have a sponge, soft cloths, and sealant or wax on hand. The sponge will be useful for removing stubborn dirt and grime, while the soft cloths are needed for wiping the area dry. If possible, use a microfiber cloth as it will be gentler on the boards. Sealant or wax can then be used to protect the boards against future stains and dirt accumulation. This final step is not always necessary but it can provide extra protection to the boards.
Gather Your Supplies
Gathering the right supplies is a key step in the skirting board cleaning process. You’ll need to gather cleaning cloths, sticks, soft toothbrushes, sealant, and mild abrasives such as white vinegar or baking soda. If you’re using a steam cleaner, make sure to have a bucket of hot water nearby, as well as the necessary accessories to fit the steamer. In addition, you might want to get a pair of protective gloves and goggles to protect yourself from any sharp bristles or particles you might encounter while working with the boards. Finally, make sure you have access to a vacuum cleaner – this is necessary for removing any dirt and dust that accumulates on the boards. Once you have all of your supplies ready, you’re ready to start cleaning your skirting boards!
Vacuum the Skirting Boards
Vacuuming the skirting boards is an important step in adequately cleaning your room. Skirting boards gather a lot of dust, dirt and other debris, which can be hard to remove with a cloth and cleaner alone. To ensure that all dust and debris is removed, take a vacuum cleaner and start vacuuming your skirting boards from the top downwards. Be sure to use a soft brush nozzle on the vacuum cleaner, as this will ensure that the skirting boards won’t be damaged during the process.
As you go, check for cracks and crevices. A good crevice tool is a great way to get into those tight spaces and ensure that no dirt is left behind. When you are done vacuuming the skirting boards, make sure to empty the canister or dust bag so the vacuum can pick up dirt more efficiently next time.
Take the time to vacuum in the corners and edges of your skirting boards as well. These areas can accumulate a lot of dirt and dust and need to be given special attention in order to ensure they are clean.
Once you are done vacuuming, the next step is to remove any stubborn marks with a sponge.
Remove Stubborn Marks with a Sponge
To remove stubborn marks from your skirting boards, begin by soaking a clean sponge in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. Rub the sponge gently across the surfaces of the skirting boards, focusing on any particularly difficult stains. When the sponge starts to dry out or become dirty, rinse it in clean water before continuing. Be sure to rinse the skirting boards with warm water after this step.
For persistent stains, you can use the sponge to apply a small amount of white vinegar to the area. Use gentle circular motions to scrub the areas until the stain is removed. Again, be sure to rinse the skirting boards with warm water after this step.
Another option is to use a paste of one cup baking soda, two tablespoons of water and two tablespoons of liquid laundry detergent. Apply the mixture to the affected area using a soft brush or rag, and then gently scrub in a circular motion until the stain is removed. When finished, rinse the mixture off with warm water.
For even tougher stains, you may need to use a mild abrasive cleaner, such as stainless steel wool or a soft scrubber. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you don’t damage the surface. Lastly, rinse the area again with warm water to make sure all of the abrasive cleaning agent has been removed.
Use a Multi-Surface Cleaner
When cleaning skirting boards, multi-surface cleaner can be used to ensure a thorough clean and remove any bacteria and dust that might be present. Multi-surface cleaners are safe to use on a variety of materials and are a great option for cleaning skirting boards that have been painted or have a finish on them. Start by applying a small amount of cleaner to a clean cloth and wipe the skirting board in an up and down motion. For tough, sticky messes, apply the cleaner directly to the skirting board with a soft cloth and work it in with a circular motion, scrubbing gently but firmly. When finished, rinse all surfaces with a clean, damp rag and allow to air dry. Be sure to avoid using any abrasive scrubbers as this could damage the finish of the skirting board.
Use Mild Abrasive Cleaner for Tough Cleaning
When it comes to tougher stains, mild abrasive cleaners can be used to safely scrub away stubborn marks. Start by mixing a small amount of the mild abrasive cleaner with water and stirring it until it forms a paste. Carefully apply the paste to the skirting board and allow it to sit undisturbed for a few minutes before starting to scrub. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush when scrubbing the board with the paste, as hard-bristled brushes may damage the boards. Once the paste has been scrubbed into the boards, wipe away any excess paste with a damp cloth. If the stain still remains, repeat the process and continue to do so until the stain is removed. Afterwards, use a damp cloth to wipe down the skirting board and remove any remaining cleaning product.
Use a Steam Cleaner for Heavy-Duty Cleaning
When you’re faced with heavy-duty cleaning requirements, a steam cleaner is your best bet. Using hot steam, this cleaning technique is more effective than traditional cleaning methods and can make light work of the dirt, dust, and grime that can build up on skirting boards, leaving them looking brand new. To use a steam cleaner on your skirting boards, first ensure that the area is well ventilated. Fill up the steam cleaner with water and plug it in, allowing it to preheat.
Using a brush attachment, gently scrub the entire surface of the baseboard, paying careful attention to corners and creases, making sure to remove any dust and dirt lodged deeply. The steam will act as a sanitizing agent and loosen any difficult stains, making them easier to clean. Move the steam cleaner all the way down the length of the skirting boards, and ensure to use protective gloves and avoid contact with hot steam.
Once you’ve completed the steam cleaning process, use a cloth to pick up the excess steam and moisture from the skirting boards. To finish, you may want to consider using a sealant or wax to protect the boards from future dirt and damage. This will ensure the job lasts, and your skirting boards are kept clean for longer.
Rinse with a Wet Sponge
Rinsing the skirting boards with a wet sponge is an important part of the cleaning process. A high-quality, soft sponge should be used so that the skirting boards are not scratched during the process. It’s important to start by rinsing the sponge in clean water, squeezing out any excess before moving onto the skirting boards.
Start at the top of the skirting board and work down, using a back and forth motion to fully remove any remaining dirt. As you work, rinse the sponge, making sure any dirt and residue are removed before passing again over the boards. Once all the skirting boards have been rinsed, take a dry, clean cloth to wipe away any remaining dampness. This will ensure that all the dirt and residue are removed and the boards are ready for sealing or waxing.
Dry the Skirting Boards
After doing your hard work in cleaning the skirting boards, make sure you don’t miss this crucial step. Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry the boards thoroughly. This is especially important if you used a liquid cleaner instead of a steam cleaner, as any water residue can cause staining or damage to the boards if left to dry on its own. Wear rubber gloves when doing this, as the cloth can become damp and can damage the boards if handled directly. Work in sections, and rub the cloth gently in a circular motion to remove any remaining moisture. Replace the cloth with a dry one if it becomes too saturated.
It is also a good idea to use a fan or hairdryer to speed up the drying process. The air should be directed not at the boards, but to the sides. The air should be moved from the top down to help the excess liquid to run off the surface. Make sure to hold the drying device at a distance and not too close to the skirting boards as this could damage them. Also, be mindful of any decorations or moldings that may be near the boards and make sure not to dry them with hot air.
Once the boards are completely dry, inspect them carefully to make sure all excess liquid has been removed. If the boards are still wet, the cleaning process must be repeated. Otherwise, your skirting boards are now ready and look as good as new!
Apply Sealant or Wax to Protect the Boards
One of the best ways to make sure that your freshly cleaned skirting boards stay looking beautiful for longer is to apply a protective sealant or wax. This will help to prevent dirt from settling and accumulating on the surface, as well as protect the boards from scratches, scratches, and water damage.
It’s easy to apply a sealant or wax to your skirting boards. Start by purchasing a sealant or wax that is designed specifically for skirting boards. There are a range of different options available, so be sure to read the instructions on the product label to ensure that you choose the right one for your needs.
Once you have the sealant or wax you need, it’s time to start the application process. Begin by wiping the boards down with a damp cloth to remove any lingering dirt or dust. Then take the sealant or wax and start to apply an even layer to the skirting boards. Start from the top of the boards and make sure to get into all of the nooks and crannies. Continue until you have applied the sealant or wax to the entire board.
Finally, use a soft cloth to buff the sealant or wax into a polished finish. This will give the boards a glossy, protective layer that will resist dirt and dust. With regular attention, your skirting boards should stay looking great for years to come.