
Baseboards might not be the first thing you notice in a room—but when they’re dusty or scuffed, they stand out for all the wrong reasons. A quick wipe now and then can keep your home looking polished from top to bottom.
Here’s how to clean your baseboards the easy, effective, and non-toxic way.
Why Baseboards Get So Dirty
Baseboards are magnets for dust, pet hair, scuffs, and whatever your vacuum missed. And because they’re low to the ground, they’re often overlooked until you catch them in the wrong lighting. Regular maintenance can save you from deep scrubbing later.
Before You Get Started: What You’ll Need
No fancy tools or harsh chemicals required. Just a few household items will do:
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Microfiber cloths
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A bucket of warm water
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A few drops of gentle dish soap or castile soap
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White vinegar (optional for extra shine)
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A soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush
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Dryer sheets (optional but surprisingly helpful)
Note: We skip abrasive sponges or bleach-based cleaners. They’re tough on surfaces—and the air you breathe.
Step-by-Step: The Best Way to Clean Baseboards
Step 1: Dust First
Start by removing loose dust and cobwebs. Use a microfiber cloth, a vacuum with a brush attachment, or even a dry paintbrush for tricky edges. This makes cleaning way easier (and less messy).
Step 2: Make Your Cleaning Mix
In a small bucket, combine:
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Warm water
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A squirt of dish soap or castile soap
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A splash of vinegar if your baseboards are extra grimy
This gentle mix cuts through dirt without leaving behind residue or strong smells.
Step 3: Wipe It Down
Dip your cloth into the solution, wring it out, and wipe the baseboards from end to end. For stubborn spots or corners, use a soft brush or toothbrush. If your knees aren’t up for the task, try wrapping a cloth around the end of a broom handle—same effect, less bending.
Step 4: Dry (and Shine)
Go over the boards with a clean, dry cloth to prevent streaks or water damage. If you want to repel future dust, lightly rub a dryer sheet over the surface. It’s a neat little hack that helps keep things cleaner longer.
How Often Should You Clean Baseboards?
Quick dusting: Every 1–2 weeks (especially if you have pets)
Deeper clean: Once a month
Seasonal refresh: Every 3–4 months
If you keep it consistent, cleaning your baseboards becomes a 10-minute task instead of a weekend project.
Pro Tip: Clean as You Go
Next time you’re mopping the floors or tidying up a room, take 2 extra minutes to run a damp cloth along the baseboards. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
Let Queendom Handle the Corners You’d Rather Skip
Baseboards, windowsills, under the fridge—we get into all the spots that tend to be forgotten. If your to-do list is full (or you just don’t want to spend your Saturday scrubbing trim), Queendom Cleaning is here to help.
We clean over 49 areas around your home—from the everyday surfaces to the overlooked nooks. Check out our full Home Cleaning Checklist to see what we cover.
Ready for a full-home refresh? Get in touch or explore more cleaning tips on the blog.