When it comes to cleaning chandeliers, hiring a professional is the safest route for you and your chandelier. While there are steps you can take to clean your chandelier effectively at home, nothing beats the expertise and care provided by an experienced professional. That said, below are some tips and recommendations on how to clean light fixtures on your own.
1. Safety First
Start by shutting off the power at the switch or breakers to avoid any accidents or electrical hazards.
2. Prepare the Area
a. Place a blanket or two underneath the chandelier to protect the crystals from potential damage if they fall during cleaning.
b. Lay bathroom towels on a table to provide a soft surface for cleaning and drying the crystals.
c. Fill two clean buckets with hot water. In one bucket, add a few drops of dish soap to create a soapy solution. The second bucket will be kept clean for rinsing.
3. Photograph the Fixture
Take photographs of the chandelier from different angles before dismantling it. These pictures will serve as a helpful reference when reattaching the crystals later.
4. Cleaning Process
Remove the bulbs and use a wet face cloth to clean them. Then, rinse with clean water and buff dry with a second dry cloth.
5. Crystal Cleaning
a. Carefully remove the crystals from the chandelier and place them in the bucket with the soapy water. Avoid stacking too many crystals on top of each other in the bucket to prevent damage.
b. After about a minute, wipe each crystal with the soapy cloth, rinse with clean water, and dry with a face cloth or towel before placing them on the towels to finish air drying.
6. Final Touches
Using the soapy cloth, wipe down the center column of the crystal arms, bowls around the base of the candle sleeves, and the metal frame. Buff dry to ensure a sparkling finish.
7. Reassembly
Once the crystals are dry, carefully reattach them in reverse order using the reference photos taken earlier. Take your time to ensure each crystal is fastened securely for both aesthetic appeal and safety.
Cleaning a chandelier requires patience, attention to detail, and the proper techniques to ensure its beauty and longevity. Hiring a professional is recommended to handle large fixtures safely, but following these expert tips and recommendations will help you maintain your chandelier’s brilliance on your own. With the right approach, your chandelier will continue illuminating your space for years to come.
Too many steps to think about? No worries! Just call Acu-Bright at 800-927-4448 or fill out this form for a cleaning quote today!
