How to Clean + Wash Baseboards

When was the last time you cleaned your baseboards? Really cleaned them. If you have white baseboards, you know that they tend to show dust and dirt a little easier. I have ‘clean baseboards’ as part of my cleaning routine and like most tasks, it’s easier if you keep up with it in lieu of letting it slide and cleaning it when you can’t stand it anymore.

Cleaning baseboards is one of the Rotating Tasks in the Clean Mama Routine (in the Homekeeping Planner and Homekeeping Society subscription). If the thought of cleaning the baseboards in your home sounds daunting and more than overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be.

If you need to dust your baseboards this duster works really well. You can also see it with some other favorite tools in this post.

I frequently vacuum the baseboards on Wednesdays when I am already vacuuming. Attaching this cleaning task to vacuuming works well because I already have the vacuum cleaner out. Curious what I vacuum with and how I use those attachments? Check out this post.

Look for a castile soap that is free of dyes, artificial scents and chemicals. It is available in the natural beauty aisle at many retailers or on Amazon. If you don’t happen to have any on hand, you can also substitute your favorite dish soap that you would use for hand washing dishes. This cleaner can be used on both painted and wood baseboards.

BASEBOARD CLEANING SOLUTION

  • 4-6 cups warm water
  • 1 tablespoon castile or dish soap

Optional: 2 drops lemon or your favorite essential oil for a little extra scent boost

Mix ingredients together in a bucket. Using a barely damp microfiber cloth, a bar mop towel, or a well wrung out sponge, wipe as you go, rinsing the cloth or sponge frequently.

Another way to clean baseboards is with baby wipes. This option isn’t as eco-friendly because you’re using baby wipes but it works and it’s perfect for kids and their nimble knees. I have these on hand for the kids to clean with. I love that the amount of liquid is controlled so you won’t have an overturned bucket of water or puddles everywhere. It’s perfect for adults too as it is the quickest of three and requires no prep.

There is no need to dread or fear cleaning baseboards when armed with these simple methods and DIY cleaner options. Choose one today and look forward to sparkling baseboards in no time.