Chandeliers are a lovely feature in any home, and with regular dusting can keep your home looking sparkling and beautiful. However, many homeowners have difficulty maintaining their chandeliers and are hesitant to take them down for cleaning. Chandeliers are large, heavy, and often hang from high ceilings that can be difficult to reach without a ladder or other safety measures. Fortunately, it is possible to clean your chandelier without taking it down or removing each crystal.
To do so, first use a feather duster or lambs wool duster to remove as much dust as possible. It is a good idea to do this at least once a month to avoid dust accumulation. Then, follow this with a light misting of either vinegar or a glass cleaner. Be sure to dry each crystal with a lint-free cloth to prevent water spots. Both of these cleaning solutions are safe to use on your chandelier and will give it a sparkling clean.
It is a good idea to place a blanket or something similar underneath the chandelier to catch any broken pieces that may fall during cleaning. Also, it is a good idea to turn off the electricity supply (at the wall switch or at the circuit breaker) before starting to work. If you don’t have access to the breaker box, then tape over the switch to prevent it being accidentally switched on while you are working on the fixture.
Once the electrical source is turned off, it is a good idea to start at one end of the chandelier and slowly work your way down. This will ensure that all areas are cleaned and that you don’t miss any small sections. Also, be sure to wear gloves during this process to prevent smudges on your hands from the crystals or any other glass parts.
For a deep, thorough cleaning, some people recommend completely disassembling the chandelier to allow for more thorough hand-washing of the individual pieces. This is a time-consuming method that requires careful preparation and the utmost caution. It is a good idea to take pictures, draw pictures, or contact the manufacturer for assembly diagrams before you begin. This will help you to remember where each piece goes when reassembling the fixture.
After carefully removing any pieces, you can wash the remaining glass or crystal using a solution of one-part isopropyl alcohol to four-parts distilled water or a mixture of lukewarm water and dish soap. Be sure to use a soft, lint-free cloth and dry each piece immediately after washing. This will prevent water stains and oxidation on the crystals. Drying also helps to prevent mold growth and other types of mildew.
