How To Clean Popcorn Ceiling: A Complete Guide

If you plan on cleaning your popcorn ceiling, you need to read this guide first. It will teach you how to clean popcorn ceiling so that it looks good as new and you don’t damage the finish. What’s more, you’ll learn how to complete this project quickly and safely.

Since spring is just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start. That means you can get a head start on spring cleaning while the young ones are still in school. Collect your buckets, broom, and vacuum cleaner. We can dive right in.

Popcorn Ceilings at a Glance

If you own a home with a popcorn ceiling, it’s probably time to clean it again. The textured surface keeps attracting dirt, pollen, smoke, and mildew. That means these ceilings continue to accumulate a lot of debris. And they’re bound to require more maintenance than traditional flat-surfaced ceilings.

So why do contractors make them in the first place?

First off, fewer people choose popcorn ceilings now. Today, homeowners prefer the sleeker, more modern look. But it was a great option during the 1970s and 80s. The textured material was cheaper, easier to apply, effectively buffered sound, and helped hide imperfections that appeared in the ceiling during construction.

So if you have an older home, you’re likely to have popcorn ceilings in some parts of your house. Regular cleaning ensures your home stays clean and free from contaminants such as dust, pollen, mildew, etc.

How to Clean Popcorn Ceiling

Popcorn ceilings are delicate. Aggressive cleaning could damage the textured surface and cause it to crumble. More importantly, you could be exposed to falling dust and debris.

So let’s learn how to clean textured ceilings safely and effectively.

Before Starting

Test your popcorn ceiling for asbestos before you start cleaning. Most ceilings installed before the 1990s contain this harmful material. If inhaled, asbestos can damage the lungs and cause long-term health issues.

Once you know your ceilings are asbestos-free, you need to:

• Move all delicate items out of the room.

• Cover the entire furniture and floor with plastic sheets or drop cloths.

• Protect yourself. Wear a mask, safety goggles, gloves, and a full-sleeved shirt.

How to Clean Dust, Dirt, and Cobwebs from a Popcorn Ceiling

Removing dust, dirt, and cobwebs from a popcorn ceiling isn’t difficult. You just have to do it gently, so the ceiling texture isn’t damaged. Once you master how to clean dust off popcorn ceiling, you can easily do it a few times a year. That way, too much dust won’t accumulate and settle on the surface.

Here are some ways to remove dust, dirt, and cobwebs:

Long-Handled Duster or Broom

Using a duster or broom with a long handle means you don’t have to keep climbing a stepladder. You can easily move around the room and clean the ceiling in one long sweep.

The key is to use the right cleaning tool. For instance, use an extendable broom with soft bristles. Or opt for a reusable feather or microfiber duster. It’s better than a disposable one since they tear or stick to the textured surface.

Tip: Before you start cleaning, make sure your broom or duster is clean. Otherwise, the ceiling will simply grab the dirt and debris off them and make your ceiling worse.

Vacuum Cleaner

Vacuums are the finest way to clean your ceiling. They suck up debris and cobwebs off the surface without dropping the mess onto the floor. Using a brush attachment and gently running it across the ceiling will make your job even easier.

Fit the vacuum with an extension wand and connect the brush attachment. Guide the vacuum over the ceiling without pressing down on it.

Tip: Most vacuums have adjustable suction controls. Avoid using high suction as it could damage or scratch the surface.

Sticky Roller

If you notice some stubborn particles trapped in the popcorn ceiling, use a jumbo-sized lint roller to snag them.

Tip: You don’t need to buy a lint roller. Just wrap a paint roller with duct tape with the sticky side out and slowly roll it across the surface.

How to Clean Stains from Popcorn Ceiling

If your popcorn ceiling has dirt stains, you can clean it with an all-purpose cleaning solution. Simply mix three tablespoons of bleach into one cup of warm water in a spray bottle. Gently mist the dirty portion and let it dry. You may need to repeat the procedure a few times. However, make sure to let the ceiling dry completely between each application.

Tip: Unfortunately, your popcorn ceilings will discolor over time. You may need to use a stronger cleaning solution to brighten it up. Mix a cup of white vinegar into a cup of cold water and apply the mixture with a microfiber cloth. Remember to dab -not rub- the ceiling.

How to Clean Kitchen Grease and Smoke from Popcorn Ceiling

The ceiling in your kitchen will be more stained and discolored than in other areas. That means it will need more intensive cleaning to remove the stubborn stains. 

If you’re wondering how to clean popcorn ceiling in your kitchen, simply try the following. Mix a teaspoon of dish soap in a cup of warm water. Dip a microfiber cloth into the mixture and wring it out before wiping the cloth against the popcorn ceiling. Don’t soak the surface because too much moisture could damage the finish.

Tip: Some stains can be very hard to get rid of. If all else fails, you may need to repaint your popcorn ceiling. 

Another Option: A Ceiling Makeover 

You know how to clean popcorn ceiling. In fact, you’ve been doing it for years. Heck, you’ve even painted it several times. Now you’re tired of the look and want to change it. 

I don’t blame you if you’re thinking of redoing your ceiling. Sure, it’s an expensive option. But if you have the budget, it’s a great way to update your home. Say goodbye to your popcorn ceilings and embrace the trendier, smoother style.

How to Remove Popcorn Ceiling

It’s time to get down to business and remove the popcorn texture. It’ll be time-consuming, but you’re on a mission. Either scrape the dry ceiling with a popcorn ceiling scraper or spray it with water to loosen the textured material. Carefully remove the surface, working on a small portion at a time.

So what to do with ceiling after removing popcorn texture?

First, you’ll have to clean the surface by sanding it to remove any textured material left behind. Then, apply drywall plaster and sand the surface again to ensure the ceiling is smooth. Viola! Your ceiling is now ready to be painted.

Over to You

Cleaning your popcorn ceiling regularly is the ideal way to keep your home bright and clean all year round. Now that you know how to clean popcorn ceiling the right way, this project should be a breeze. 

But, if you plan on removing the textured ceiling, make sure to hire professionals like Fish Painting LLC. We have the skills and experience to transform your ceilings and improve your living space. What’s more, we offer a variety of painting services that can make your home look good as new.