How to Clean Cobwebs On a Popcorn Ceiling

The texture of a popcorn ceiling is rough and bumpy.

The term "popcorn ceiling" refers to an acoustic ceiling treatment where popcorn-like bits of texturing material are sprayed onto a ceiling. Popcorn ceilings became popular during the 1970s when the texturing material contained asbestos as one of its ingredients. According to the Housekeeping Channel website, the use of asbestos in popcorn texture continued into the 1980s. A popcorn ceiling is not only challenging to clean, but it can be dangerous. If you're unsure of your ceiling texture's age or materials, have a professional test it for asbestos before attempting to clean it yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Foot stool
• Feather duster
• Vacuum

Instructions

1. Climb the foot stool and lightly dust areas with cobwebs with a feather duster or similar tool. Use caution not to push cobwebs up into the texture. Roll and twist the duster to catch cobwebs and pull them away from the ceiling.

2. Attach your vacuum's longest cleaning attachment and a soft-brush end piece if you have one. Reach the brush up to the ceiling and capture the cobwebs, pulling them away from the ceiling as you let the suction work.

3. Vacuum until the ceiling is free of cobwebs. Avoid "wiping" the ceiling with the brush; it is only there to protect your ceiling from being bumped with a hard object.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear protective gear and clothing even if you are certain your popcorn ceiling does not contain asbestos. Dust and loose bits of texture can fall in your eyes and mouth while you're cleaning.

References

• Housekeeping Channel: Popcorn Ceilings 101
• The Natural Handyman: Q&A With NH