How to remove the popcorn ceiling?

The interior of the house uses a wide variety of ceiling finishes, from smooth to textured. Each finish has its advantages and disadvantages, such as acoustics, appearance and even how they reflect interior lighting. But all ceiling decorations have one thing in common - they get dirty and dusty, and popcorn ceilings can be worse. The raised, cheese-like bumps create a surface that attracts piles of dirt and dust. The result is a dirty, dusty ceiling that not only looks bad, but can aggravate asthma and other respiratory symptoms. Therefore, today we will analyze how to clean the popcorn ceiling and not spoil the relief decoration.

We rarely pay attention to the ceiling and especially to its cleaning. This also applies to the popcorn ceiling. And until we notice a stain or discoloration, we may not even understand how dirty the ceiling has become. But removing a popcorn ceiling or other decoration is not that difficult if you use the right method.

Importantly! Before learning how to clean a popcorn ceiling, it's important to understand the potential risks. Some popcorn ceilings may contain asbestos, which can cause respiratory disease. If you are unsure whether your popcorn ceiling coating contains asbestos, skip the cleaning and have it professionally tested for the substance.

Popcorn ceiling cleaning

One of the biggest challenges is preventing cobwebs, dust and dirt from accumulating without damaging the texture of the popcorn. That is why it is important to regularly clean the ceiling to maintain cleanliness and reduce the amount of pollutants. So how to clean the ceiling under popcorn without damaging it? Although this ceiling decoration can be delicate, if you take your time, you can safely bring it back to life.

Here's what you'll need:

Plastic film or tarpaulin.

Filter mask.

safety glasses.

Stairs.

Vacuum cleaner with brush attachments.

Broom.

Paint roller.

Lint brush with sticky paper.

Liquid dish soap.

Sponge.

hydrogen peroxide.

Window fan.

Preparation for cleaning the ceiling

Cover the furniture and the floor with a tarp or plastic film and collect everything you need. Set up the ladder and put on the mask and goggles. Install the brush attachment on the vacuum cleaner so that it has the maximum possible reach.

How to clean the ceiling

Use a vacuum cleaner brush attachment to (gently!) remove cobwebs, dust and dirt.

A brush with sticky paper or a microfiber cloth is ideal for removing dirt and dust from popcorn ceilings. First, check the corner of the ceiling to make sure the glue on the roller is not too strong. To save time and avoid the dangers of standing on stairs, purchase an extension pole that allows you to use a lint roller or rag while standing on the floor.

To pre-treat stains and particularly dirty areas of the ceiling, pour hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and spray on the dirty areas. Leave the peroxide on for about five minutes, then blot the stained areas with a damp sponge.

Mix dishwashing liquid and water in a spray bottle and test the cleaner on a remote corner of the ceiling to make sure it doesn't stain it. If it's safe to do so, spray the cleaner on an easy-to-reach area and use a soft paint roller to rub off the dirt.

When you're done washing the popcorn ceiling, use an open window or fan to help it air dry overnight.