How To Brighten Up Dingy White Baseboards

You spend a lot of time trying to make your home inviting and visually appealing; one thing, however, that could be dragging down the appearance of your entire space is dingy white baseboards. Whether they are just faded and dinged up from years of household activity, or the baseboards are actually filthy, they are something you can easily tackle. While cleaning baseboards is the classic way to brighten them, you can also give them a fresh coat of paint, or even tie in decorative elements that will make your white baseboards stand out, like painting your walls contrasting colors.

Baseboards see a lot of action on a daily basis, so it makes sense that they can appear rough around the edges. The most direct (and sometimes the most effective) way to brighten them up is with a good thorough cleaning. Whatever their state, there are a number of easy ways to clean baseboards. Other than taking some time and elbow grease, this option is not difficult or too involved, but you'll need the proper approach. First, dust the baseboards so you're not redistributing dust and dirt. Then, use a microfiber cloth that has been dipped in slightly soapy water and thoroughly wrung out. Wiping the baseboards while applying a bit of pressure will lift much of the lingering surface-level grime. Some people swear also by getting baseboards sparkling clean using a laundry room essential — dryer sheets — if you want to give it a shot.

Baseboards aren't always just scuffed and dirty — sometimes they can be damaged and dented. While painting over the damage can make things brighter temporarily, it won't be long before they begin harboring dirt and grime in their pocket marks. To address the root cause, use wood filler and a putty knife to fill in any divots or dents, then allow the filler to dry fully before sanding it down. Lastly, a new coat of paint on your repaired baseboards can make them look noticeably brighter. Remember that it's best to repaint the entire length of baseboard along a wall for visual continuity. 

If your walls and baseboards are both white, you might not be doing yourself any favors. Although choosing white walls and white trim is sometimes touted as a way to make your home feel crisp and bright, the truth is more nuanced than that. When brighter baseboards are your goal, consider a distinct wall color. Dark navy is one choice that when coupled with white baseboards will make the floor trim pop. Black interiors are also on trend — but this time with a twist that brings some warmth rather than darkness into the space. Pair warm blacks with white baseboards and you'll be sure to get a high-contrast, brightening effect. You can also fine-tune the type of white paint you use for your baseboards. Choosing a cooler-tone white — with a blue undertone, for example — can deliver a brighter appearance. You can also pay attention to the finish of the paint, opting for satin or semi-gloss for a shinier, brighter appearance than flat or eggshell paints.