Popcorn ceilings were all the rage between the 1950s to 1970—you could slap them up fast, hide every bump and imperfection, and keep costs down. Even today, you’ll still see them in plenty of homes all around the country. The one downside? Dust. If you’ve ever looked up and noticed your popcorn ceiling looking like a spiderweb haven, you know what I mean. But how can you clean popcorn ceiling dust without turning the room into a total mess? In this post, we will show you a handful of simple, no-fuss methods—using whatever tools you already have—to banish dust and cobwebs from your ceiling like a pro.
Before you start cleaning a popcorn ceiling:
Get your ceiling tested for asbestos:
If your popcorn ceiling dates back to the mid-1980s or earlier, there’s a chance it contains asbestos—a fire-retardant filler that’s now known to be hazardous when disturbed. You can pick up an at-home asbestos test kit (look for any EPA-approved kit at your local hardware store or online), follow the simple sampling steps, and mail your sample off to a certified lab. If the result comes back positive, it is probably time to stop and let a professional cleaning service take things under control. Remember that asbestos itself isn’t dangerous until you disturb it. Scraping, brushing, or even heavy dusting can send toxic fibers into the air.
Protect the furniture, floor, and yourself:
Although we highly recommend you be as gentle as possible when you want to clean a popcorn ceiling, it is always a good idea to play it safe by covering the furniture and floors with plastic sheets or drop cloths. Make sure the room is well-ventilated by opening the windows. Also, wearing a dust mask is highly recommended, especially when you want to clean popcorn ceiling mold.
Now that everything’s prepped, it’s time to pick your cleaning strategy!
Ways to Clean a Popcorn CeilingLint Roller:
This tool is great not only for picking up pet fur but also for collecting light dust on your popcorn ceiling. To avoid using a ladder, use one with an adjustable pole. Then, gently roll the sticky roller over the surface. It’s a very gentle method and a very quick and easy way to clean without much hassle.
Using a Vacuum:
Using a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment can help remove dust and debris from your popcorn ceiling without creating a mess. Make sure that you are using low suction and are gentle so you don’t pull off any texture. This method is good when you want a deeper clean, but still want to avoid using water or any other liquid.
Feather Duster:
An old-fashioned feather duster could be very handy for when you want to be extra gentle while cleaning popcorn ceiling dust or spiderwebs. Just set up a steady ladder and tackle all the unwanted dust. Unlike some of the other methods, feather dusters do not get stuck in the uneven and rough surface of a popcorn ceiling, which makes them a great, reliable choice.
Microfiber Duster:
Go for one that has a handle and a rotating head—it makes it much easier to reach angles. This type of duster grabs onto dust instead of just moving it around. It’s a better option if your ceiling needs a bit more of a deep clean compared to the feather duster.
Damp Cleaning Method:
We’ve already gone through different methods for getting popcorn ceiling dust, but that might not fix everything. Because of their textured surface, these ceilings can stain easily and tend to absorb other environmental grime, like grease and smoke. If that’s what you’re dealing with, you might want to try one of these damp cleaning methods. Just be careful—popcorn ceilings don’t do well with too much moisture, so try not to use too much liquid while cleaning.
Dish Soap and Warm Water:
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle to minimize moisture. Lightly mist a small hidden section for the first trial—don’t drench it—then gently dab with a soft sponge, then blot it dry immediately and open the windows if possible to help the ceiling fully dry.
Bleach Mixture:
Carefully using a bleach mixture might be the only choice when you are struggling with rough stains or want to clean popcorn ceiling mold.
Combine one part bleach with four parts water and then spray it on the ceiling. Let it sit for a few minutes, then dab it with a soft sponge. Make sure to use gloves and keep windows open to keep yourself safe and let fresh air flow.
Too Much to Handle? We’ve Got You — professional cleaning services in Baltimore, MD.
Sometimes, calling in the experts offers the safest option. This is especially true if you see a lot of mold, a ceiling that feels more brittle than normal, or if you’re worried about damaging or peeling off the surface during cleaning. If these DIY methods didn’t work, our commercial cleaning company in Baltimore can help.
At Interworld Cleaning, our experienced commercial cleaners know exactly how to handle delicate ceilings with care to avoid any unwanted damage. We also specialize in Ceiling Cleaning Services, including stubborn popcorn ceiling jobs, to make sure the work gets done safely and thoroughly. Beyond just ceilings, our professional cleaning services cover a wide range of jobs—from house cleaning services to full-scale commercial cleaning services in Baltimore.
With over 15 years of experience, we pride ourselves on reliable service, eco-friendly methods, and clear communication to make sure you’re satisfied every step of the way. Whether you’re dealing with tough ceiling stains or just want the job done right, we’re here to help in Baltimore and nearby areas—including Annapolis, Towson, and beyond.
Contact us to learn more about our service areas, the different cleaning services we offer, and our satisfaction guarantee. Let our commercial cleaners help you find the right cleaning solution for your space.
