10 Easy Ways How to Clean Baseboards (No Special Tools Needed)

Let’s be honest—baseboards (or skirting boards, as we call them in the UK) are some of the most overlooked parts of any home. Yet they collect dust, pet hair, food splatter, and grime faster than you’d think. If you’ve ever looked down and winced at the dirt lining your hallway skirtings, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t need a fancy steam mop or expensive tool to get them clean. In fact, you likely have everything you need already at home. Here are 10 simple, effective ways to clean your baseboards—without special tools or back-breaking effort.

Why Baseboards Often Get Ignored

We walk past them daily, yet rarely give them a second glance—until the build-up becomes impossible to ignore. Because baseboards sit so close to the floor, they naturally collect dust, crumbs, shoe marks, and scuffs. But unlike windows or worktops, they don’t make it onto our weekly to-do lists. Why? Because cleaning them feels like a chore. Let’s change that.

1. Dry Dust with a Microfibre Cloth or Sock

This is your go-to method for regular maintenance. Pop an old sock on your hand or use a dry microfibre cloth to wipe down the baseboards. Start from one end of the room and work your way around. It’s quick, easy, and surprisingly satisfying.

2. Use a Broom with a Sock for Hard-to-Reach Areas

If you can’t bend easily or just want to save your knees, wrap a clean sock around the end of a broom and secure it with a rubber band. Use this to sweep along skirting boards without crouching. Great for those with mobility concerns or multi-room cleaning.

3. Spray and Wipe with Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the baseboards and wipe down with a cloth or sponge. This natural mix cuts through grease and disinfects at the same time. For painted baseboards, test a small patch first.

Eco tip from Friends of the Earth UK: Vinegar is a safe, affordable option for home cleaning.

4. Use Baby Wipes or Eco Wipes

Baby wipes are surprisingly effective for small scuffs, fingerprints, or quick spot cleans. Choose unscented or biodegradable wipes where possible. They're especially handy for baseboards near dining areas or doorways.

5. Magic Eraser for Scuffs and Crayon Marks

If you have kids, pets, or messy guests, you’ve probably seen marks and crayon art on your skirting boards. A damp magic eraser works wonders on stubborn grime and scuffs. Use gently to avoid paint damage.

6. Mop Trick for Hidden Baseboards

To clean baseboards behind furniture or appliances, use a flat mop. Wrap a cloth or towel around the head, secure it, and run it along the edges. It’s a hands-free way to get to places your arms can’t easily reach.

7. Baking Soda Paste for Grimy Spots

Mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste. Apply it to areas with sticky grime, like kitchen baseboards. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then scrub gently with an old toothbrush or sponge. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

8. Old Toothbrush for Detail Cleaning

Have corners or edges with caked-on dirt? A soft old toothbrush can reach into crevices where cloths can’t. This is perfect for ornate skirting or uneven surfaces. Just remember to vacuum first to remove loose dust.

9. Dryer Sheets to Prevent Dust

After cleaning, run a dryer sheet along your baseboards. It not only picks up static dust but also helps repel future dust for days. It’s a clever hack with long-term benefits.

10. Weekly Quick Wipe = Long-Term Clean

The best way to avoid deep-cleaning baseboards too often? Build them into your weekly routine. A quick wipe after vacuuming takes just minutes and keeps them from becoming a grime trap.

Bonus Tip: Match Cleaning to Your Baseboard Type

• Painted skirting: Avoid harsh chemicals; use gentle cleaners and soft cloths.
• Wooden baseboards: Use a damp cloth, never soak. Finish with a wood polish for shine.
• PVC or laminate: All-purpose cleaners work fine, but avoid abrasive scrubs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my baseboards?

Once a month for deep cleans. Light wiping weekly prevents buildup.

Can I clean baseboards without bending?

Yes—use a broom, mop, or extendable duster to clean standing up.

What’s the best homemade baseboard cleaner?

A mix of white vinegar and warm water is effective and non-toxic.

Do professionals clean baseboards?

Absolutely. Glohus Deep Cleaning Services include thorough baseboard cleaning as part of their comprehensive packages.

Tired of Doing It All Yourself?

We get it. Life is busy—and those baseboards aren’t going to clean themselves. Let Glohus handle it. Our professional cleaners cover every corner, edge, and crevice—so you don’t have to. Book your Hertfordshire clean today and let us take care of the grime while you relax.

External Sources:
- Friends of the Earth UK – Homemade Cleaning Recipes
- The Guardian – Clean Your Home Naturally
- The Spruce – Natural Cleaning Products