Chandeliers are quite common in most homes as they add a touch of beauty and elegance to our living spaces. They come in different types and designs and no matter how simple your home may be, they bring a certain character into your spaces.
These ornate lighting fixtures, however, accumulate dust and dirt over time, which may dull their brightness and affect their appearance. Most of the time, hiring a professional cleaner comes into mind when maintaining our chandeliers but do you know that you can clean it yourself?
We’ll show you how to clean a chandelier by giving detailed, step-by-step instructions for your specific type of chandelier. With just a few simple tools and tips, you can restore your chandelier’s sparkle in the most cost-efficient way!
9 Steps on How to Clean a Chandelier
Cleaning a chandelier can be difficult. The process can be time-consuming as you try to handle it with care. However, using the right tools and techniques can help make this task easier and more effective. Here are some of the basic steps you can follow:
Step 1: Turn Off the Power Supply
For safety reasons, it is imperative to turn off the power supply of the chandelier before you begin the cleaning process. Chandeliers are usually directly connected to the electrical circuit of your home, so, it can be dangerous to clean them while the connection is still on.
One of the risks of cleaning a chandelier without turning off the power supply is electrical shock. Especially when cleaning solutions are used, water could get into the electrical wires and cause a short circuit or other electrical problems.
Step 2: Place a Drip Sheet or Cloth Below the Chandelier
Placing a drip sheet underneath the chandelier is vital before you begin the cleaning process. This method helps catch any dirt or debris that drops or spills during cleaning.
Since you will be using water or cleaning solution during cleaning, drips and spillages are common in the surrounding area. The drip sheet or cloth can help prevent damage to your floors, carpets, and furniture. This will also help collect dirt and debris, making clean-up much easier after you finish.
Step 3: Install or Use a Sturdy Ladder or Platform for Cleaning
Chandeliers are placed in the ceiling, and the only way to reach them is by using a ladder or a platform. it’s advised to use sturdy ones for safety reasons. This may reduce the risks of accidents or falls that may cause injury or damage to property.
A good and sturdy ladder or platform also provides comfort while cleaning. You will need a stable surface while you work on those intricate parts. It will also allow you to access high-up areas that are usually hard to reach.
Now, there is always a question of how to clean chandeliers on high-ceiling. Or how can you clean a crystal chandelier without taking it down? The trick is using extra tools to get the job done. What are these extra tools?
- Extension pole – You can attach your cleaning brush or cloth to an extension pole to reach high areas without needing to climb.
- Chandelier cleaning tool – This cleaning tool is specifically designed for cleaning chandeliers. It may be a brush, a cloth, or a combination of both.
- Safety glasses – While dusting and cleaning, dirt, debris, or some parts of the chandelier may fall directly to your eyes.
- Scaffolding—A ladder or a platform may not be enough to reach high-ceiling chandeliers, especially huge ones. You may need to rent and install scaffolding to reach the ceiling safely. Cleaning professionals commonly use this type of tool.
It is still advisable to call in the cleaning pros when cleaning high-ceiling chandeliers. It would be unwise to do it yourself if you don’t have the right tools and experience.
Step 4: Prepare a Mild Cleaning Solution
In a small bucket or basin, mix some mild dish soap or a specialized chandelier solution with warm water. Do not add too much, as this may leave residue on your chandelier.
When cleaning, dip your soft cloth or sponge into the solution and squeeze out excess water. Gently work your way from top to bottom, ensuring not to miss any part or piece of the chandelier.
Has somebody told you that vinegar is a perfect alternative to soap cleaning your chandeliers? Contrary to its strong taste and smell, vinegar is a mild and natural ingredient that you can use for cleaning your chandelier.
How to clean a chandelier with vinegar? Simple. Use one part of vinegar instead of soap or chandelier solution with one part of water and put the solution in a spray bottle.
Shake well, spray it on the chandelier parts, and wipe with a sponge or cloth. Rinse it off with water to eliminate any vinegar residue.
Important tip: Avoid using harsh cleaning agents as these contain chemicals that might damage the delicate surface of your chandelier.
Step 5: Use a Soft Cloth, Sponge, or Brush When Cleaning Your Chandelier
When cleaning, it is important to choose a soft cloth or brush, or sponge as your cleaning tool to avoid damaging the delicate parts of the chandelier.
Hard or rough materials or tools may scratch or chip off the surface of the chandelier parts. These will destroy the beauty of the chandelier or lose its sparkle.
When cleaning, choose a soft, absorbent cloth to ensure that no residue is left behind. Residues will leave unwanted marks on the chandelier, especially on crystal chandeliers, which may affect its luster.
Step 6: Towel Dry as You Go Along
Towel drying as you clean your chandelier removes extra moisture left after you use the cleaning solution. It removes residues or water spots on crystals or glass pieces.
If these pieces are not dried quickly, your cleaning solution will leave streaks of water, which will be more difficult to remove once they dry.
Step 7: Use a Soft-Bristled Brush or Toothbrush for Hard-to-Reach Areas
Some areas of the chandelier, like the crevices or some intricate details, are hard to clean using a cloth. A soft brush does the trick, and it does not scratch or chip the surface of the chandelier in the process. It gently removes stubborn dirt or grime without causing any damage.
A simple tool, like a toothbrush, may seem ordinary, but it can do wonders when cleaning your chandelier. It is always a good idea to keep one in handy.
However, it is essential to note that while these may be soft enough to use, avoid putting too much pressure when cleaning with soft brushes. Scrubbing too hard or using vigorous motion may damage the surface of your chandelier.
Step 8: Wipe Down the Entire Chandelier
Once you’re done cleaning piece by piece, towel-dry your entire chandelier from top to bottom to ensure that it is thoroughly clean and that no moisture, traces of soap, or grime are left behind, making it sparkly and bright.
Step 9: Turn On the Power Supply and Check Your Chandelier
Once you’re done cleaning, you may turn back on the chandelier’s power supply to ensure it is working correctly and everything is back in its place.
While cleaning your chandelier, some parts may have been dislodged or loosened. When you turn on your chandelier, you can immediately check for missing pieces and identify other issues, such as busted light bulbs.
And of course, turn on that chandelier and admire the work that you have done to bring back its glory.
How to Clean a Crystal Chandelier Without Taking It Down
When we think of chandeliers, the first thing that comes to mind is crystal chandeliers. And if you have one at home, you may find cleaning intimidating.
What is the best way to clean a crystal chandelier aside from calling the cleaning professionals?
How do you clean a chandelier with crystals? The steps are the same as for any chandelier, with just a little twist.
- With crystal chandeliers, instead of wiping every piece, carefully detach removable parts and place them in a bucket or basin with a cleaning solution. For undetachable ones, dip your cloth in the cleaning solution or use a spray bottle with the solution and gently wipe down each crystal.
- Dry your crystals and prisms immediately with a soft, absorbent cloth or towel to prevent water spots.
- Carefully reattach the crystals to the chandelier. Then, using a soft cloth, polish the crystals with a glass cleaner or crystal cleaner for chandeliers.
- Turn on the power supply and enjoy your crystal chandelier’s beautiful sparkle.
How to Clean a Brass Chandelier
A brass chandelier, on the other hand, has a different method of cleaning. Instead of using a cleaning solution, you will need a brass polish to bring back that shine. Just like a crystal chandelier, it has its challenges, especially on how to clean a brass chandelier without taking it down.
Try these simple ways to clean your brass chandelier without breaking your budget.
- Turn off the power supply before you start.
- Cover the area underneath the chandelier with a plastic cover or drip cloth.
- Use a sturdy ladder or platform to reach for the chandelier.
- Dust the area with a soft microfiber cloth or brush to remove dirt, cobwebs, and debris.
- Rub a small amount of brass polish on a soft cloth onto the brass surface. Don’t use too much to prevent dripping.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to buff the brass surface until it shines. Alternatively, you can use a buffing tool.
- Use a cotton swab dipped in brass polish to target stubborn spots or stains.
- Finally, use a dry cloth to buff your chandelier to remove excess polish and improve shine.
- Turn on the power supply to check and admire your brass chandelier.
Can Anyone Learn How to Clean a Chandelier?
Cleaning a chandelier yourself is doable, but it isn’t a walk in the park. It may sound like a DIY project you can work on at home, but you may still lack confidence even with the right tools and cleaning tips.
If you don’t have the guts to do it, save yourself the trouble and call your nearest professional cleaner.
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