Cleaning experts have shared a simple trick to keep skirting boards dust-free for up to a month
Many people reckon homes need a thorough clean before the New Year arrives to keep bad luck at bay, but battling dust during winter can feel like a losing battle. Throughout the chillier months, we’re inclined to keep windows firmly shut, inadvertently trapping dust indoors where it settles in every nook and cranny.
Skirting boards are particularly susceptible to dust accumulation, positioned close to the floor and typically constructed from materials like wood or plastic that generate static electricity. This static doesn’t just attract dust – it also pulls in pet hair, carpet fibres, lint, food crumbs, and any mud traipsed in from outside, leaving skirting boards looking absolutely manky.
Despite regular cleaning efforts, grubby skirting boards can make your entire home appear scruffy, but the experts at Central Skirting have revealed a straightforward trick to repel dust and prevent it building up.
They explained: “A surprising but effective way to clean your skirting boards is to use tumble dryer sheets! They can easily wipe up dust and dirt, and as they are naturally scented, they leave a great smell in the home too.”
Dryer sheets work by neutralising static electricity in washing to prevent clothes bunching together in a tumble dryer, but they’re equally effective at eliminating static elsewhere, reports the Express.
Running a dryer sheet across a surface eliminates static electricity whilst depositing a thin film of oils that creates a protective shield. The oils in dryer sheets make it harder for dust and other grubby particles to cling onto skirting boards, keeping them cleaner for longer.
While using dryer sheets is a temporary solution, it’s known to keep dust at bay for weeks, making your home tidier with minimal effort during the festive season.
Start by vacuuming and cleaning your skirting boards as usual with soapy water. Some folks also opt for a deep clean using white vinegar and warm water, which is highly effective at tackling thick layers of dust.
Next, dry your skirting boards thoroughly with a clean cloth. It’s crucial they’re completely dry, as any lingering moisture will attract dust and render the dryer sheet method ineffective.
Then, all you need to do is take a dryer sheet and give your skirting boards a good wipe down. After that, leave them be and they should remain dust-free for quite some time.
The duration of dust-free skirting boards can vary depending on factors like pets and frequency of heating usage, as dry air tends to draw in dust.
However, they should stay clean for roughly two weeks to a month, ensuring your home remains spick and span over the holiday period.
