5 Steps to Cleaning Your Baseboards - For An All-Year-Long Clean

Baseboards might not be the first thing you notice in a home, but dirty, dusty baseboards can make even the cleanest space look neglected. The good news? Keeping them spotless doesn’t have to be a hassle! With the right approach, you can maintain immaculate baseboards with minimal effort.

Follow these five simple steps to keep your baseboards looking fresh and clean year-round.

🧽 Step 1: How to Clean Baseboards Regularly

Dust and pet hair love to collect on baseboards, especially in high-traffic areas. A quick dusting routine can prevent buildup and keep them looking fresh.

How to dust your baseboards efficiently:

✅ Use a dry microfiber cloth or a Swiffer duster to remove dust.

✅ Try a dryer sheet—it not only grabs dust but also reduces static, helping repel future dust.

✅ If you have a vacuum with a brush attachment, run it along the baseboards for a quick cleanup.

💡 Pro Tip: Dust your baseboards once a week to prevent dirt buildup!

🧼 Step 2: Wipe with a Gentle Cleaner

Even if they’re dust-free, baseboards still collect grime, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. A quick wipe-down keeps them looking fresh and bright.

How to clean baseboards without damaging the paint:

✅ Mix warm water + a few drops of dish soap for a simple, gentle cleaner.

✅ Use a magic eraser for scuff marks and stubborn spots.

✅ A damp microfiber cloth works great for regular upkeep.

💡 Pro Tip: For extra shine, add a splash of white vinegar to your cleaning solution!

🛑 Step 3: Tackle Tough Stains & Scuffs on Your Baseboards

Over time, baseboards can get scuffed, scratched, or stained—especially in busy homes with kids or pets. Instead of repainting, try these easy fixes:

How to remove scuffs and stains:

✅ Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is your best friend for tough scuff marks.

✅ Use a baking soda paste (baking soda + water) for stuck-on grime.

✅ A little olive oil on a cloth can help buff out minor scratches.

💡 Pro Tip: If scuff marks won’t come off, try a touch-up paint pen that matches your baseboard color!

🌊 Step 4: Prevent Future Dirt & Dust

Now that your baseboards are spotless, let’s keep them that way! A little prevention goes a long way in maintaining their clean look.

How to keep baseboards cleaner for longer:

✅ Apply a thin layer of dryer sheets along the baseboards to repel dust.

✅ Add a small amount of fabric softener to your cleaning water—it helps prevent dust from sticking.

✅ Consider installing quarter-round molding in high-traffic areas to protect the baseboards.

💡 Pro Tip: If you have pets, brush them regularly to reduce hair buildup on baseboards!

🗓 Step 5: Schedule Deep Cleans

Even with regular dusting, baseboards need an occasional deep clean to remove built-up grime. Make it part of your seasonal cleaning routine!

How often should you deep-clean your baseboards?

✅ Monthly: Quick wipe-down with a damp cloth.

✅ Seasonally (4x/year): Deep clean with warm, soapy water.

✅ Annually: Consider a fresh coat of paint if needed.

💡 Pro Tip: When deep cleaning floors, wipe down the baseboards too—it’s a natural two-for-one task!