While many homeowners have had popcorn ceilings removed, many remain and are in need of cleaning. Cleaning is a bit time-consuming and it can be a messy job, but it can be done.
How Often to Clean a Popcorn Ceiling
Since the texture of popcorn ceilings traps dust, insects, and spider webs, they can become quite dull. Luckily, thorough cleaning once per year will help brighten them and reduce home allergens. Room corners and areas near HVAC vents should be checked and cleaned more often. Cleaning a popcorn ceiling can be a messy job because some of the texture almost always comes loose as you are cleaning. Set aside plenty of time to do the job. If the ceiling has become discolored by roof leaks, heavy cooking grease, cigarette or fireplace smoke even from gas fireplaces, it is nearly impossible to remove these stains by simply cleaning. A better choice is to use a stain-blocking primer and then repaint the ceiling to brighten the room.
What You Need
Supplies
WaterDishwashing liquidChlorine bleach
Tools
Drop cloths or tarpsProtective mask and safety glassesSturdy step ladderVacuum with brush attachmentsSoft bristle brush on a polePaint roller or long-handled lint rollerDuct tape (optional)Spray bottle(s)Sponge(s)
You should wear a mask to avoid inhaling too much dust and safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust and cleaning chemicals.
Use a Vacuum: A vacuum with a long hose and its widest brush attachment is the best way to capture the dust and prevent it from spreading around the room. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush: A soft-bristled brush on a pole works well to sweep away dust. Use a brush with fine bristles that will remove more dust and get into all the details gently, as well as an angled head. If the brush pole is tiled at 45 degrees, you can scrub far out in front of you without standing under the work. Use a Paint Roller and Duct Tape or a Sticky Lint Roller: If you don’t have a long-handled sticky roller, wrap duct tape around a paint roller with the sticky side facing out. Roll it across the ceiling to trap dust. Change the tape frequently.
Use a sponge to blot away the cleaning solution and soil. Rinse the sponge frequently with plain water to remove accumulated soil and wring out water until the sponge is only slightly damp. You can also use a paint roller to apply the cleaning solution. The roller must be only slightly damp—no dripping water! Roll the solution over a small area at a time. Rinse the soiled paint roller well and remove as much water as possible before moving to a new section to clean.
