Dryer sheets can be used around the house in many surprising ways. Who would have thought they could dissolve burnt food in pans? They’re also great for removing dust and hair from everything — from flat-screen TVs to baseboards.
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There’s something about the slightly sticky, rough texture of a dryer sheet that makes cleaning baseboards easier. But there’s an added bonus: dryer sheets help prevent dust from building up on baseboards.
Why dryer sheets prevent dust buildup
You’ll see this tip all over TikTok, but cleaning professionals also vouch for its benefits. Wiping down baseboards with a dryer sheet is an effective way to remove dust and dirt — and it keeps them cleaner for longer. This is because static electricity causes dust and hair to cling to surfaces. Dryer sheets contain fabric softeners with positively charged ions that neutralize static electricity.
How to use a dryer sheet to prevent dust buildup on baseboards
Dryer sheets lose some of their anti-static power after use, so it’s best to use fresh ones for this purpose. For smaller jobs, you can use dryer sheets to remove dust and static from baseboards. Simply wipe quickly, making sure to reach every corner and groove. You may need to use a second sheet for the dustier areas.
If your baseboards are very dirty, you’ll need a deeper cleaning method. Here’s how:
- Start by wiping with a slightly damp microfiber cloth to remove most of the dirt. Use a cloth and soapy water to scrub away stains.
- Dry the baseboards with a towel when you’re done.
- Then, wipe each baseboard with a dryer sheet. Your baseboards won’t attract dust — at least for a while.
What if you don’t have or don’t want to use dryer sheets?
Some people prefer not to use dryer sheets because they opt for more eco-friendly laundry methods. Dryer sheets produce unnecessary waste and can leave residue on clothes and inside the dryer.
If you have liquid fabric softener at home, you can use its anti-static properties instead. Fill a bowl or sink with water, add a drop of fabric softener, and mix well. Dampen a cloth in the water and use it to wipe away dust.
You can also buy anti-static spray, which can be used on clothing, carpets, furniture, and other household items. Some formulas leave no residue. Spray a bit of anti-static spray onto your microfiber cloth and wipe the baseboards clean.
Source: Southern Living. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
