Knowing how to properly clean a chandelier can go a long way toward boasting spotless light fixtures throughout the house. There are various chandelier cleaning methods, and many involve products that most people likely already have at home. The wet method is known for being fast but messy, while the dry method may be considered safer since it does not require handling liquid cleaning products near light fixtures. A chandelier can also be taken apart and cleaned piece by piece, which is time-consuming but thorough.
Preparations for the wet method of chandelier cleaning can take some time, but the actual cleaning part is often quick. To begin, be sure that the light switch is shut off, and the relevant circuit breaker should be pulled to ensure against electric shocks. Next, a towel should be placed under the light fixture to protect the floor, with the light bulbs off and a ladder set up underneath. The next step in the wet chandelier cleaning method is to spray the entire chandelier with cleaner that is appropriate for light fixtures, which can be found at most grocery stores. The light fixture should remain powered off and be allowed to dry on its own, with the excess cleaner dripping onto the tarp beneath it.
Another option for chandelier cleaning is called the dry method, which is a technique that requires a ladder and cleaning solution, but no tarp. The first step is to turn off the lights, and the next is to get on the ladder with two clean cloths and some glass cleaner in hand. The cleaner should be applied to one of the cloths, which should then be used to wipe each light and piece of glass on the fixture until it is clean. The other cloth can be used to polish each piece until it shines.
Some people prefer to take the chandelier apart completely and clean each part separately. Since this type of chandelier cleaning process can take more time, this is usually a good method to use occasionally rather than regularly. The starting steps include placing a ladder and blanket under the fixture so that it can be reached easily, and any dropped pieces can land on a soft surface. Next, all the parts should be placed into either a colander or a sink lined with a terry cloth towel, and then covered with water and soap. Finally, all pieces should be rinsed and then placed on a dry cloth to air dry, at which point the chandelier should be put back together.