DIY Cleaning Methods for Basement

 

Hydrogen Peroxide and Water Solution for Basement Cleaning

 

What You’ll Need:

• 3% hydrogen peroxide (the kind you find at most drugstores)
• Clean, empty spray bottle
• Cool tap water
• Microfiber cloths or mop
• Stiff brush (for scrubbing rough surfaces)
• Protective gloves
• Ventilation (open windows, use a fan if possible)

 

Mixing the Solution

• Pour equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and water into your spray bottle. For example, fill halfway with hydrogen peroxide, then top off with water.
• Label your bottle clearly. Hydrogen peroxide breaks down in light, so keep the bottle out of direct sunlight and use it within a week for best results.

 

How to Use the Solution in Your Basement

• Put on protective gloves before you start. Basements can hide all sorts of surprises, and hydrogen peroxide can be irritating to skin with prolonged contact.
• Test a small, hidden area first. Hydrogen peroxide can sometimes lighten certain surfaces, especially unfinished wood or fabrics.
• Spray the solution directly onto hard surfaces like concrete, tile, or sealed stone. For walls, floors, or even plastic storage bins, a light mist is enough—no need to soak.
• Let the solution sit for a few minutes. This gives it time to work on grime and stains. For stubborn spots, use a stiff brush to scrub gently.
• Wipe away with a clean microfiber cloth or mop. Rinse the area with plain water if you’re concerned about residue, especially on floors where kids or pets might play.
• For musty odors, spray the solution lightly on affected areas and allow to air dry. Good ventilation helps speed up the process and keeps things fresh.

 

Extra Tips for Basement Cleaning

• Always store hydrogen peroxide in its original brown bottle or a dark, opaque container. Light breaks it down and makes it less effective.
• Don’t mix hydrogen peroxide with vinegar or other cleaners in the same bottle. This can create unwanted chemical reactions or reduce cleaning power.
• Hydrogen peroxide is best for hard, non-porous surfaces. For unfinished wood or fabrics, use caution and always spot test first.
• If you’re dealing with a lot of dust or debris, vacuum or sweep before using the solution. This helps the cleaner reach the actual surface instead of just moving dirt around.

 

 

How to Clean a Basement with Borax and Hot Water

 

What You’ll Need:

• Borax powder (found in the laundry aisle)
• Hot water (as hot as your tap will go, but not boiling)
• A sturdy mop or scrub brush
• Bucket (preferably two—one for mixing, one for rinsing)
• Old towels or rags
• Protective gloves (borax can be rough on skin)
• Ventilation (open windows or run a fan if possible)

 

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Clear the Area: Move furniture, boxes, and anything else off the basement floor. This gives you full access and prevents anything from getting wet or damaged.

 

• Dry Sweep First: Use a broom or vacuum to remove loose dirt, dust, and cobwebs. This step keeps the borax solution from turning into a muddy mess.

 

• Mix Your Solution: In a bucket, dissolve about ½ cup of borax in 1 gallon of hot water. Stir until the borax is fully dissolved. (If you see powder at the bottom, keep stirring.)

 

• Test a Small Spot: Before you go wild, dip a rag in the solution and test it on a hidden patch of floor or wall. Wait a few minutes to make sure there’s no discoloration or residue.

 

• Apply the Solution: Dip your mop or scrub brush into the borax mix and start cleaning the floor, working in small sections. For walls, use a sponge or rag. Don’t flood the area—just dampen it enough to clean.

 

• Let It Sit (Optional): For stubborn grime, let the solution sit for 5–10 minutes. This gives the borax time to loosen up dirt and stains.

 

• Scrub as Needed: Use a little elbow grease on tough spots, especially around drains, corners, and baseboards where gunk likes to hide.

 

• Rinse Well: Go over the cleaned areas with a mop or rag dipped in plain hot water. This helps remove any leftover borax and dirt. Change your rinse water as needed.

 

• Dry Thoroughly: Use old towels or rags to soak up excess water. Basements are notorious for staying damp, so run a fan or dehumidifier if you have one. This helps prevent musty smells and keeps things from getting slippery.

 

Extra Tips:

• Ventilation is key. Borax has a mild scent, and basements can get stuffy. Open windows or use a fan to keep air moving.

 

• Don’t mix borax with other cleaners. Stick to the basics—borax and water. Mixing with other chemicals can cause unwanted reactions or residue.

 

• Store leftover solution safely. If you have extra, label the container and keep it out of reach of kids and pets.