Skirting boards are easy to overlook — they're low, they're behind furniture, and in day-to-day life nobody really looks at them. But property managers specifically check them at exit inspections, and a band of dust along the bottom of every room is a quick easy deduction.
Why Skirting Boards Accumulate So Much Dust
Skirting boards sit at floor level where air currents deposit dust. In Perth's dry climate, fine dust settles quickly and compresses into a grey film along the top and face of the boards. Regular mopping doesn't clean them — you need to wipe them separately.
How to Clean Skirting Boards Properly
Use a damp microfibre cloth or a slightly damp flat mop head. Wipe along the top edge, the face, and the junction with the floor. For painted skirting boards, avoid soaking them — excess moisture can cause the paint to bubble or lift.
For marks or scuffs, a small amount of sugar soap on a cloth will lift most staining without damaging the paint. A magic eraser works well on black scuff marks.
Don't Forget Behind Furniture
The skirting boards behind the fridge, washing machine, and other heavy appliances are just as subject to inspection as the visible ones. Pull appliances out before the clean and make sure the boards behind them are wiped.
In bedrooms, the skirting boards behind wardrobes and under bed bases are checked. Move furniture out before the bond clean — or make sure it's already removed before the cleaners arrive.
Corners and Joints
Dust accumulates most heavily in the corners where two skirting boards meet. Use a dry brush or vacuum attachment to clear the corner first, then wipe with a damp cloth.
When Are Skirting Boards Considered Damaged?
Scuff marks from furniture, particularly along the face of skirting boards in hallways and doorways, can accumulate over a tenancy. Light marks are fair wear and tear. Significant gouging, chips, or broken sections may result in a repair claim. Touch-up paint can address minor surface marks.
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