1. Home
  2. Lighting

Best Methods for Cleaning Lighting Fixtures

A clean home is a happy home – or so the old adage goes. For those of us who can’t stand the sight of a coffee ring on a countertop or a speck of pet hair on the sofa, a clean home also translates into personal happiness and a reduced stress level. However, even the most militant of clean freaks often forget one important spot: light fixtures.

In addition to being an eyesore to all who notice, a dusty and dirty light fixture also gives off less light, but a quick cleaning can help to brighten a room.

Elegant lighting fixture for the dining room

by Enviable Designs / Photography by Vicky Tan

Here are a few tricks and tips for cleaning your home’s light fixtures.

1) If possible, remove the glass part of the fixture and clean it separately. Fill up a sink with warm, soapy water and allow the glass to sit for several minutes. Then wipe the glass clean with a sponge and seat upon a towel to dry. You may want to also polish the glass off with a soft cotton cloth to avoid any residue.

Fancy lighting fixtures for the living room

by Sutton Suzuki Architects

2) To clean light bulbs, make sure the lights have been unplugged and switched off long enough to cool. Then, wipe them down with a soft rag. A simple duster may suffice, but only if the lights have been recently cleaned. If there are layers of dust, a lightly dampened cloth may be the only option.

3) Cleaning chandeliers, however, can prove a slightly more difficult process. First, clean the entire fixture with a duster. Next, lay an absorbent towel or cloth below the chandelier and spray with a cleaning solution – such as white vinegar and water. Allow the fixture to drip the dirty cleaner onto the towel below until dry.

Modern lighting fixture for a stylish dining room

by Judy Cook Interiors

Rustic lighting fixtures for a cabin

by TruLinea Architects / photo by photekt.com

One thing to keep in mind is that the more you dust, the less work it will be to clean your lighting fixtures. By adding this process to your weekly cleaning routine, you can enjoy sparkling fixtures and bright light all year round.

Funky shaped bathroom lighting fixture

by Dayna Katlin Interiors

Black dining light fixture

by Stacy Curran

Unusual Shaped Globe Branching Bubble Chandelier

by David Howell Design

Have you cleaned your lighting fixtures yourself? How was it?

Carrie Dagenhard

Carrie is a seasoned blogger, entertainment journalist and all around professional wordsmith with a passion for interior design and home organization. A self-proclaimed eternal wanderer and neat freak, she enjoys sharing her eclectic tastes and zeal of creating a beautiful and balanced space through DIY home décor. After graduating with a degr[...]

You might also like