How to Clean a Popcorn Ceiling
If you still have one of those "popcorn" ceilings popular in the 1970s, you really should consider scraping it down and repainting it. It dates your room and is absolutely miserable to clean. If you're determined to clean it, though, there are a few techniques to try before you give up completely. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Sturdy ladder or scaffolding that will be comfortable to sit or stand on for long periods of time
- Safety glasses
- Soft brushes
- Natural sponge
- Spray bottles
- White shoe scuff-cover (polish)
- Vinegar
- Green cleaner
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Instructions
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Check to see that your ceiling is actually cleanable. Try rubbing it with a soft bristled brush. If the "popcorn" is actually sanded paint or Styrofoam pellets, it will rub off and you'll have a mess. Give up and paint over it. It will be less work.
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If you're just trying to clean a small area, try brushing it with a soft bristled brush and touching up with shoe whitener. For a larger soiled area, try use a solution of vinegar and water or a "green" spray cleaner and lift the dirt off with a damp sponge.
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Remember that ceilings are generally painted with a white paint called "whitewash" and that too much moisture will dissolve the whitewash and expose the material used to form the "popcorn". If you're spraying something on the ceiling, don't let it sit at all--remove it immediately. Daub rather than wipe and use a natural sponge rather than a rag or cellulose sponge. Disturb the surface as little as possible. Spraying your cleaning solution gets it in the nooks and crannies. Gravity will help it move the dirt.
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If you have a whole ceiling to clean, give up and scrub it down with a good strong cleaner like TSP and accept the fact that you'll probably have to repaint. Use a soft brush to start and blot with your sponge.
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Tips & Warnings
If you really want a textured ceiling, you can use a sanded paint and treat it like plaster. Just be sure to keep your surface damp as you paint and apply a light top coat.
When using cleaning materials (especially TSP) above your head, always wear safety glasses. Covering your head may also be wise as some cleaning solutions can be caustic and irritate your skin.
