Cleaning Popcorn Ceilings

Popular in most homes which were built in the mid 1950s to the late 80s, popcorn ceiling were used extensively due to its benefits. Not only the texture was easy to apply but it was also a great way of hiding the imperfections in the ceiling construction. However, due to certain drawbacks, like the use of asbestos which caused diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer,and mesothelioma, popcorn ceilings have since then become quite redundant. However, if you are one of the people who have popcorn ceilings in your house, you would have realized that there is nothing as taxing and difficult, as cleaning popcorn ceilings. Moreover, these ceilings tend to be relatively fragile with bits of texture having a tendency of falling off, specially if they have never been painted over. And to add to your headache, these ceilings cannot be washed or scrubbed unless you want bits of "popcorn" in your soup and unattractive, bare patches of drywall.

However, the scenario is not that gloomy. While it may be difficult, but cleaning popcorn ceilings is not an impossible task. Here are some tips on how to clean popcorn ceilings.

How To Clean Popcorn Ceilings

Before we can get down to cleaning the ceiling, it is a good idea to get a professional to check, if there is any asbestos content in your popcorn ceilings. As this asbestos might be a potential health hazard and you might opt for popcorn ceiling removal techniques. However, if the coast is clear you can proceed with your cleaning regime. For this you would need a vacuum cleaner with its multiple attachments, a spray bottle, bleach and water.

Using a Vacuum Cleaner: Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush extension, to gently remove the cobwebs from the ceiling and brush off the dirt. Take care not to put pressure on the ceiling and gently pull the brush towards yourself. Avoid pushing up or sweeping straight across.

Using Bleach: Alternatively, to brighten the ceilings and for removing the mold and mildew, you can choose to spray the ceilings with a bleaching agent. Fill up a spray bottle with diluted bleach and spray on the dirty spots. Wait for it to dry naturally before repeating the process, till the desired results are achieved.

Painting the Ceiling: If your vacuum attachment is not cutting it, then the best remedy for discolored and dirty popcorn ceilings is to paint the ceilings, using a spray on flat latex paint.

Swiffer duster or Feather duster: For removing the cobwebs, off the ceiling, you could try using a feather duster or swiffer duster, to attract the dirt and cobwebs off the ceiling.

While cleaning the popcorn ceilings, refrain from wet or wipe down cleaning, as it may ruin the texture of the ceiling. Applying these methods to keep your popcorn ceilings clean, ensures that your sprayed acoustic ceiling regains its original luster. For those who would rather avoid this DIY adventurous project, hire a qualified cleaning company to do the job. Believe me it is a much better option, as compared to the hassle of protecting your furniture and carpets while cleaning popcorn ceiling.