Haus Maids Guildford: How to Clean Light Fixtures Like a Pro
When was the last time you cleaned your light fixtures?
This is one of those household chores that we never seem to get around to. But with regular polishing and some handy tricks, you can keep your household lights clear, bright and dust-free.
Our house cleaners in Guildford have shared some of their best advice for cleaning light fixtures. Keep reading to find out more…
Remember safety first
It’s crucial to be careful whenever you’re working with electricals. So, before you get started, turn off all your lights and wait for all bulbs to cool completely. Ideally, you should also switch off the power to the room at the main supply.
Need to climb a ladder to get to your light fixture? Make sure there’s someone home to hold it whilst you work. You may also want to lay down some towels or a blanket beneath the light to catch any falling pieces or dirt.
Know your light fixture type
Is your light ceiling- or wall-mounted? Chandelier or pendant? Recessed or table-based? You’ll need to figure this out to form the right cleaning plan. The techniques you’ll use to freshen up each one are fairly similar, but you might need specific tools for the job.
For example, fabric shades will require a lint roller or vacuum cleaner. For a pendant light, you’ll probably need a ladder or stool and some glass cleaner. Make sure you look up specific guidance for your light fixture type and material to ensure you follow the right method.
Get rid of dust
Removing dust from your light bulbs and fittings can make a huge difference to their appearance and efficiency.
First, remove the bulb. Wipe away dust from its surface with a soft microfibre cloth, dampening it slightly to remove stubborn dirt. Then, remove the cover of your light fixture (if possible) and clean it using mild dish soap and warm water. Let it dry completely before putting it back in place.
For chandeliers and glass pendant lights or fixtures, you may like to go in with a glass cleaner to polish. A 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water can do the trick if you’d rather not use harsh chemicals.
Clean your lampshades
Light fixtures with fabric shades need a little special attention, as they’re more likely to show wear and tear.
We recommend using a lint roller to get rid of dust gently. You may also use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, or just a dry microfibre cloth if your shade is more delicate.
If you need to tackle a stain, use a mild detergent and a little water on a soft brush. Make sure not to get it too wet, as this could damage the fabric. Once the mark is gone, leave the lampshade to dry completely before replacing it.
Ask the experts for help
It might sound like a faff, but cleaning your light fixtures regularly can improve the brightness of your lighting, the longevity of your bulbs, and the air quality in your home.
Most fixtures need cleaning at least once a season. If you have a chandelier, you can probably get away with a bi-annual clean. Other fittings are less fiddly and time-consuming to deal with, so you should be able to give them more regular TLC.
Can’t quite commit to adding this cleaning job to your list? Worried about tampering with your electrics? Nervous about damaging your favourite lampshade? We’re here to help.
We offer domestic home cleaning to clients in Guildford, Godalming and all surrounding villages, including Haslemere, West Clandon, Bramley, Shalford, Worplesdon, Albury, Wormley, Alfold, Beare Green, Capel, Chiddingfold, Dunsfold, Ewhurst, Farncombe, Gomshall, Hambledon, Hascombe, Holmbury St Mary, Holmwood, Hurtmore, Hydestile, Ilford, Kirdford, Loxwood, Newdigate, North Holmwood, Ockley, Peaslake, Wornersh. Our Guildford home cleaning experts can also consider clients within 20 miles of their offices.
So, if you’re keen to hand over some of your chores to the professionals, why not give us a call today?
Contact Haus Maids Guildford and Godalming on 01483 370249 to speak to a member of the team about our local house cleaning services.