How to Clean a Popcorn Ceiling in 3 Ways

Yes, they’re dust magnets, but we’ll show you how to make them look their best.

Love them or hate them, popcorn ceilings pose a cleaning challenge because they tend to collect dust.

We’ll show you three popcorn ceiling cleaning methods, plus an advanced stain removal method.

The less frequently a popcorn ceiling is disturbed, the less likely it’ll incur damage.

In these cases, you will want to clean your ceilings more than once a year.

Protect yourself, too!

Early formulas for popcorn ceilings may contain white asbestos fiber, now a known carcinogen.

Cleaning these surfaces, which risk releasing harmful asbestos particles into the air, requires professional attention.

These devices are designed toclear pet furoff the floor, but they work well on popcorn ceilings, too.

If it does, this method isn’t for you.

You get bonus points if your vacuum has a telescopic wand!

Set Up the Ladder

Position yourladderto reach the area you want to clean.

Use yourvacuumwith its brush attachment to gently remove dust and cobwebs from the ceiling.

Position the ladder to reach the area you want to clean.

Here’s how to clean water damage and other unsightly stains from your popcorn ceiling.

It’s not foolproof, but this easy, inexpensive tactic is worth a try.

Mix one part bleach and three parts water in a clean spray bottle.

If that’s effective, continue until the stain is removed.

If the stain has not subsided after three days, this method isn’t working.

Consider covering the stain instead of removing it.

Excess moisture can cause a popcorn ceiling to fall off.

If it does contain asbestos, it’s best to hire professionals to do it.

If your popcorn ceiling is asbestos-free, you’re free to definitely do the task yourself.

But just be warned: Removing a popcorn ceiling is not for the faint of heart.

see to it the space is well-ventilated.

Put on goggles, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself.

Once you’ve done all of this, you’re ready to begin scraping.

Use a four-inch utility knife or a drywall knife to scrape at the texture and create a smooth surface.