Last Updated on September 16, 2023
Cleaning your shiplap walls to maintain their timeless appeal is a task that requires just a bit of effort and the right approach. Shiplap adds a distinctive touch to your space with its characteristic grooves, but those same grooves can be magnets for dust and dirt.
To clean your shiplap walls, you need to start by vacuuming the wall space. After that, take a damp microfiber cloth or sponge and wipe the shiplap boards carefully along the grain.
After cleaning a section, rinse the cloth and use it to eliminate soap residue. To prevent water damage, you need to meticulously blot away any moisture using a clean, dry cloth or towel.
We will discuss all the steps on how to clean shiplap walls so you can maintain the elegance and charm of your shiplap while keeping it dust-free and looking its best.
How to Clean Shiplap Walls: Step-by-Step Instructions
To effectively clean your shiplap walls, you will need to follow a few simple steps.
Step 1: Gather your tools
Step 2: Vacuum the shiplap walls
Step 3: Prepare the cleaning solution
Step 4: Clean the shiplap walls
Let’s go over each step in detail so you can clean your shiplap walls successfully.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before cleaning your shiplap walls, ensure you have all the right tools. You will need a vacuum with a brush to remove any loose dust and dirt from the surface. The brush attachment will help prevent any damage to the delicate wooden panels.
Also, grab a hard bristle brush to gently scrub away any stubborn stains or grime that may have accumulated over time.
Mild soap suitable for wooden surfaces is also necessary, as it will effectively clean without causing any harm to the shiplap walls.
Step 2: Vacuum the Shiplap Walls
After gathering your tools, you need to vacuum your shiplap walls. A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment is required.
Attach the brush attachment to your vacuum cleaner to vacuum the shiplap walls. Then, gently run the brush along the shiplap boards, focusing on the gaps between them.
Move the vacuum toward the boards to pick up dust without pushing it into the gaps. Ensure thorough coverage of the entire wall, working from top to bottom.
This tool will be your ally in removing the initial layer of dust and dirt that may have accumulated on the shiplap walls.
Step 3: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Now that you’ve removed the loose dust, it’s time to prepare a gentle yet effective cleaning solution.
Mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water in a bucket, ensuring that the soap is appropriate for wooden surfaces to prevent any damage or discoloration.
The mild soap will help break down any remaining grime on the surface without causing harm to the wood.
Make sure to dissolve the soap well in the warm water, creating a soapy solution that can easily penetrate and remove dirt from every nook and cranny of the shiplap.
Step 4: Clean the Shiplap Walls
Now that your solution is ready, you can start methodically cleaning your shiplap walls to restore their beauty. Immerse a soft microfiber cloth or sponge into the soapy water mixture. The cloth should be damp but not dripping with excess moisture.
Wipe the damp cloth or sponge along the grain of the shiplap boards. For any particularly stubborn stains or spots, apply a gentle amount of pressure while wiping or employ a circular motion for a slight scrubbing action.
Once you’ve cleaned a section, rinse the cloth or sponge thoroughly with clean water. Squeeze out any excess liquid.
Use the damp cloth to meticulously eliminate any traces of soap residue from the shiplap walls. After cleaning the entire wall, employ a clean, dry cloth or towel to blot away any remaining moisture carefully.
Can you use magic erasers to clean shiplap walls?
You can definitely use magic erasers to clean shiplap surfaces and effectively remove marks, smudges, and stains.
Magic erasers effectively tackle various surfaces, including painted or faux shiplap. To begin, dampen the sponge before gently scrubbing the marked areas on your shiplap walls. This method helps restore their cleanliness and appearance while maintaining the unique textured look that Shiplap is known for.
Yet, you need to exercise caution and always test a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid damaging your shiplap finish accidentally.
How often should you clean shiplap walls?
Cleaning shiplap walls around one to two times per month is recommended to keep them in tip-top condition.
But, if you notice a buildup of dust, increasing the frequency to once a week can help maintain their appearance.
Shiplap walls need regular dusting to look their best and stay clean. So, to keep your shiplap walls looking their best, make sure to dust them regularly and increase the frequency if necessary.
Can you use a steam cleaner to clean shiplap walls?
Using a steam cleaner to clean your shiplap walls is possible, but it is not recommended due to potential risks. Shiplap walls are typically constructed from wood with gaps between the boards, which might allow steam to seep in and potentially warp the wood if excessive moisture is applied.
If you choose to proceed, exercise caution by using a low to medium heat setting and maintaining a safe distance between the steam nozzle and the wall.
Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture in one area to prevent damage. Prioritize the integrity of the wood by testing a small, hidden section before proceeding.
Alternatively, safer options like using a damp cloth or gentle cleaning solution might be more suitable for maintaining the shiplap walls’ appearance and structural soundness.
Revel in the Timeless Elegance of Your Shiplap Walls
When you see your shiplap walls looking dull or dusty, take action to clean and restore their allure. It is possible to keep your shiplap looking beautiful while keeping it free from dust and grime by following these simple steps.
The process is straightforward and efficient, from gathering your tools to vacuuming, preparing a gentle cleaning solution, and meticulously wiping away residue.
Whether you choose to clean your shiplap walls monthly or weekly, the effort you invest will be well worth the stunning results.
Embrace the beauty of your space with clean, well-maintained shiplap walls that showcase their timeless appeal.
