To clean baseboards effectively:

1. Gather supplies such as a vacuum with a brush attachment, microfiber cloths, bucket, warm water, dish soap, vinegar, sponge, baking soda, and possibly a stiff brush.
2. Prepare the area by moving furniture and vacuuming the baseboards gently to remove dust and loose debris.
3. Wash the baseboards with a solution of warm water and dish soap or a mix of water and vinegar. Use a microfiber cloth dipped and wrung out in the solution to wipe the baseboards in sections. Avoid over-wetting to protect floors.
4. Scrub stubborn stains using a paste of baking soda and water with a stiff brush, then wipe clean.
5. Dry and buff using a clean microfiber cloth. For an extra touch, rubbing with a dryer sheet can help repel dust.

This method works well generally, including for white baseboards which show dirt more visibly. For very greasy or sticky baseboards, a heavy-duty degreaser or steam cleaner may be needed. Regular cleaning (about once a month) helps keep baseboards looking sharp and clean without much buildup.