Indoor Light Fixture Cleaning Dos and Don'ts

If you're like most homeowners, chances are, you don't give much thought to the cleanliness of your indoor light fixtures. Over time, however, these fixtures accumulate dust and grime, leading to reduced brightness and an overall unsightly appearance. Below, we cover some essential dos and don'ts for properly cleaning your Bicycle Glass light fixtures, helping you ensure they continue to function optimally and look their best.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Supplies

Do use microfiber cloths when cleaning your light fixtures. These cloths effectively trap dust and allergens. Plus, they’re soft enough not to scratch the surface of your fixtures.

Don't use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials for cleaning. Strong chemicals can cause damage to the finish of your light fixtures, while abrasive materials can leave scratches or other unwanted marks. At Bicycle Glass, we recommend using a product like Windex to remove the initial layer of dust and grime. Then, you can use a diluted alcohol solution of one-part alcohol and one-part water to finish the job.

Safely Accessing Your Light Fixtures

Make sure to prioritize safety when cleaning your Bicycle Glass light fixtures. Turn off the power to the specific fixture before you start the cleaning process. You can do this via your home’s circuit breaker. Once the power is off, carefully use a ladder or step stool to reach your fixtures.

From there, you'll need to remove the shade from the hardware. Unscrew the lightbulb, then, while holding the shade in place, unscrew the shade ring by turning it counterclockwise. Once you remove these two elements, you can safely separate the glass shade from the fixture. Place it on a soft towel while you clean it. Don’t place it directly on the floor; setting your fixture on a hard surface could cause damage.

Cleaning Different Types of Light Fixtures

Do recognize that different light fixtures require special cleaning techniques. For example, you’ll need to clean recessed lighting using a long-handled dusting tool. For chandeliers, carefully dust and wipe them down with a soft cloth. Always consult the manufacturer's recommendations when cleaning specific types of light fixtures.

Don't treat all light fixtures the same when it comes to cleaning. Applying the same cleaning method to every type of light fixture can lead to damage or sub-optimal results.

Properly Maintaining Your Light Fixtures

Do establish a regular cleaning schedule for your light fixtures. Typically, all your fixtures will need is a quick dusting once per week. You don't need to deep clean them very often—once or twice per year should suffice.

Don't neglect your light fixtures or allow them to become excessively dirty. Doing so can make cleaning a more time-consuming task and can reduce the efficiency of your fixtures, leading to reduced brightness or even potential fire hazards caused by overheating.

Taking proper care of your indoor light fixtures not only ensures that your home remains well-lit and inviting but also keeps your fixtures in good condition and extends their lifespan. By adhering to these indoor light fixture cleaning dos and don'ts, you'll be able to effectively clean your light fixtures while avoiding any potential risks or damage.

High-maintenance fixtures sound too exhausting? For a beautiful, durable lighting solution that requires minimal maintenance, consider Bicycle Glass's semi-flush glass pendant lights. With their timeless design and high-quality construction, these light fixtures are sure to stand the test of time. Not to mention, they're easy to clean and keep looking great!