Keeping ceiling fans and light fixtures clean can seem daunting, especially if you don’t have a tall ladder. However, with some clever tools and techniques, you can keep them dust and dirt-free without ever leaving the floor.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Microfiber duster or cloth – Great for trapping dust and dirt. Can be washed and reused.
- Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment – Allows you to reach up and vacuum dust and dirt off blades and fixtures.
- Cleaning spray – Any mild all-purpose cleaner is fine. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Toothbrush or other small brush – For scrubbing crevices and tight spaces.
- Gloves – To protect your hands during cleaning.
Tips for Cleaning Fan Blades
- Turn the fan off before cleaning! This prevents injury.
- Use the vacuum hose attachment to sweep along each blade. This removes loose dust and dirt.
- For stuck-on dust, lightly spray cleaner onto the microfiber cloth and wipe each blade.
- For really dirty blades, use a small brush to scrub in crevices. Dip it in cleaner as needed.
- Don’t immerse or soak the blades – just use a damp cloth to wipe clean.
- Buff blades dry with a clean microfiber cloth. Ensures no streaks or residue.
Pro Tip: Slide a pillowcase over each blade before vacuuming. It will catch all the dust!
Cleaning Fan Housing and Motor
- Use the vacuum hose to remove dust buildup on the fan housing and motor compartment.
- Dampen a cloth with cleaner and wipe down the entire housing surface.
- Use a dry cloth to remove any wetness so moisture doesn’t accumulate.
- For stubborn dirt, use a small brush and cleaning spray. Avoid motor.
- Check screws/bolts to make sure nothing is loose. Tighten if needed.
Cleaning Light Fixtures
- Vacuum loose dust with the hose attachment.
- Spray glass cleaner onto bulbs and globes. Wipe with a microfiber cloth.
- For intricate globes, lay them on a towel and spray/wipe each section.
- Use a small brush to clean inside crevices and plastic housings.
- Polish metal fixtures with a mild metal cleaner and soft cloth.
Warning: Never spray liquid cleaners directly onto ceiling fixtures! Misting onto a cloth prevents electrical hazards.
Extend Your Reach
- Use a microfiber mop or duster for extra reach. Great for ceilings up to 12 feet.
- Attach a scrub brush or cloth to an extendable pole for cleaning blades.
- Use a bulb changer pole to remove globes and fixtures for cleaning by hand.
Keeping ceiling fans and lights clean is important for appearance and safety. With the right tools, techniques, and a little time, you can get them sparkling clean from floor level. The key is using vacuum attachments, moistened cloths, small brushes, and extendable tools. In just an hour or two, your overhead fixtures will go from grimy to gleaming.
