Americans under the age of 65 reported spending more time doing housework in 2020 than in 2019. If you’re one of the many people still spending more time at home than before the pandemic, having a clean home is more important than ever.

Cleaning the doors and door frames is a great way to freshen the look of your home. Not sure where to start? Follow this guide to make your door frames like new again.

Dust the Door Frames

The first step in cleaning doors is dusting. Removing all the dust and dirt is important because water tends to smear them around. Your cleaning could end up making the door look worse.

A clean cloth or duster may be enough to remove any dust and debris. If you need to get into the cracks and grooves of molding and trim, a clean paintbrush will be more effective. A vacuum with a nozzle attachment is another way to remove dust from the top edge of the door frame.

Make Your Cleaning Solution

Most of what makes your door frames look dirty are oily fingerprints attracting dirt. That’s why cleaning using only water doesn’t work.

Avoid using cleaning solvents. These products can damage the finish or paint of your wood. A diluted solution of mild dish soap and water should clean your door without damaging it.

Mix one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid in a gallon of water. Test the solution on a part of the door that isn’t very visible. That way, you can be sure it won’t react with the paint or finish on your door.

Remove Smudges and Fingerprints

Before you start wiping down the door frame, lay some old towels or newspapers underneath to catch any drips.

Use a clean sponge or cloth dipped in the soap solution to clean the door frame. Be sure to wring the sponge or cloth out well after you dip it into the solution. Extra water can leave marks on the surface.

Rinse the door frame with a damp, soap-free cloth. Finally, wipe the surface dry with a clean, dry towel. This prevents drip marks.

If you have varnished or stained wooden doors, you can use an appropriate polish or wax after you clean. These types of products give the wood a rich glow.

Remove Tougher Stains

If you have tough stains, you may need more than a soap and water mixture. Distilled white vinegar mixed with water can be a good solution to remove stains. Vinegar is non-toxic and inexpensive.

Mix one cup of vinegar with four cups of water. Be sure to test this mixture on a part of the door that’s hard to see before you apply it.

Vinegar has a very strong smell, but the odor will fade. In fact, vinegar has a deodorizing effect.

Buffing Wooden Doors

Furniture polish or wax can remove mild scuff marks from a varnished or stained door. Buffing the door frames may remove scuff marks from a painted door frame.

You can also try a baking soda and water paste. Rub the scuff marks with the mixture using a non-abrasive pad. If none of these methods work, you may need to repaint the area.

Enjoy Your Clean Door Frames

Following these steps will get your door frames clean and glowing again. As with so many cleaning tasks, cleaning your door frames will be easier if you do it regularly. You’ll love the like-new look of your doors.

If you’d like some help, The Home Keepers offers a full range of cleaning services. Whether you need a one-time cleaning or ongoing services, we’re ready to exceed your expectations. Contact us for a free quote and find out how we can simplify your cleaning routine.