How to clean your skirting boards

Skirting boards, called kickboards or baseboards in the US, are often overlooked during regular cleaning routines. However, they play a crucial role in maintaining the appeal of your home. Over time, skirting boards can accumulate dust, dirt, and grime, which not only looks unsightly but can also affect the overall cleanliness of your living space. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best way to clean skirting boards, provide step-by-step instructions, and answer questions related to skirting board maintenance. 

Cleaning skirting boards can be a messy task, especially if you’re dealing with stubborn grime or paint. To prevent any damage to your floors, particularly carpets, it's essential to take protective measures.

Clear the area: Move any furniture or obstacles away from the skirting boards to give you clear access

Lay cloths: Use old sheets or bath towels to cover the floor along the length of the skirting boards. This will protect your flooring from water, cleaning solutions, and debris

Vacuum thoroughly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove loose dust and dirt from the skirting boards. Pay special attention to the edges where dust tends to accumulate.

Dusting and vacuuming: Start by removing any loose dust and dirt. This will make the wet cleaning process more effective. Use a soft microfibre cloth to wipe down the skirting boards, ensuring you reach into any grooves or decorative features. Then take a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently vacuum the surface of the skirting boards.

Washing and drying: Now that the dust is gone, it's time to clean the skirting boards. Dip a cloth into the soapy water, wring it out well, and wipe down the skirting boards. Work in small sections to ensure thorough cleaning. Rinse the cloth in clean water, wring it out, and wipe away any soapy residue from the skirting boards. Use a dry microfibre cloth to remove any excess moisture and leave the skirting boards dry.

Removing stubborn stains: For tougher stains, such as grease or scuff marks, you'll need a more targeted approach.

White vinegar solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Dampen a cloth with the solution and gently scrub the stained area.

Baking soda paste: For stubborn stains, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a cloth or toothbrush.

Magic eraser: A magic eraser can work wonders on tough stains. Simply dampen the eraser and gently rub the stained area.

Using fabric softener: Did you know you can use fabric softener to clean skirting boards? This method not only cleans but also leaves a pleasant scent. Mix one part fabric softener with four parts water in a spray bottle, then spray onto your skirting boards and wipe clean with a microfibre cloth. The fabric softener helps to break down dirt and leaves a fresh fragrance.

Final touches

Inspect: Check the skirting boards for any missed spots or remaining stains. Touch it up with paint as needed.

Polish: For wooden skirting boards, consider using a wood polish or conditioner to restore shine and protect the wood.

Cleaning skirting boards without bending

If you have mobility issues or simply want to avoid bending, there are ways to clean skirting boards without straining your back.

Long-handled duster: Use a long-handled duster or a microfiber mop to reach the skirting boards while standing.

Extendable brush: An extendable brush with a soft head can help you scrub without bending down.

Robot vacuums: Some robot vacuums come with edge-cleaning features that can help keep your skirting boards dust-free.

Removing paint from skirting boards can be a delicate task, especially if you want to avoid damaging the underlying wood.

Test area: Always test your paint removal method on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Paint scraper: Gently use a paint scraper to lift off loose or peeling paint. Be careful not to gouge the wood.

Heat gun: A heat gun can soften the paint, making it easier to scrape off. Hold the heat gun a few inches away from the surface and move it slowly back and forth. Once the paint bubbles, scrape it off.

Chemical stripper: For stubborn paint, use a chemical paint stripper. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, apply the stripper, and let it sit for the recommended time. Use a scraper to remove the softened paint.

Clean up: After removing the paint, clean the skirting boards with warm soapy water to remove any residue. And if you need advice on how to paint your skirting boards, we can provide it, along as many other useful tips and tricks in our Ideas Hub.

Plaster splatters on skirting boards can be unsightly. Here’s how to remove them effectively.

Dry scrape: Use a paint scraper to gently remove as much dry plaster as possible.

Soften the plaster: Dampen a cloth with warm water and hold it against the plaster spots to soften them.

Scrub gently: Use a cloth or sponge to gently scrub the softened plaster off the skirting boards.

Clean up: Wipe down the skirting boards with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue