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Light Fixture Cleaning Tips

It doesn't take long for dirt, dust and grime to find their way onto your light fixtures.

These soils are the most common blights you'll find on your fixtures, dimming both your home's ambiance and your fixtures' ability to put out all the wattage you're paying for.

Cleaning fixtures needn't be a supercharged effort, however.

Wipe clean regularly with a rag or dust cloth, optimally whenever you do your regular house cleaning but at least each time you change the bulb.

This will help keep most of the grime from settling in for a permanent stay.

Whether your fixtures are sconces or lamps, brass, glass or chrome, regular cleaning will keep them bright, attractive pieces of your home's decor.

1. Always turn off the electricity to the fixture before cleaning it.

It's a safety thing. Don't risk the shock of coming in close proximity of a lit bulb and fixture with your hands.

2. Check the fixture for frayed wires.

If you notice any damage, have it fixed before cleaning it.

3. Brass, chrome, steel, nickel or pewter fixtures.

Resist the urge to lather on brass or other abrasive cleaners as they could mar the wax or sealer that keeps the fixture looking its best.

Instead, gently rub the surface with a clean, damp cloth.

4. Glass fixtures and wall sconces.

Clean with a cloth dipped in water and hand dish-washing liquid.

5. Always wash fixtures by hand.

While it may be tempting to pop a glass fixture into the top rack of the dishwasher for a thorough cleaning - resist the urge.

Automatic dishwasher detergent can scratch or dull the decorative design and coating on some fixtures.

6. Plastic recessed covers can be cleaned in the sink.

Plastic recessed covers, commonly found in kitchen cabinet under-counter fixtures, can be cleaned in the sink.

Fill the sink with water, add a few squirts of hand dish-washing liquid and gently wash cloudy fixture covers.

7. Cleaning hard-to-reach fixtures.

For hard-to-reach fixtures, use a stepladder or an extended-reach dust and dirt removal too.

Use a vacuum dust brush to keep these looking clean and grime-free.

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About the Author

Tara Aronson is a native Californian. Having grown up in San Diego, she studied journalism and Spanish to pursue a career in newspaper writing. Tara, whose three children - Chris, Lyndsay, and Payne - are the light of her life, now lives and writes in Los Angeles. She also regularly appears on television news programs throughout the U.S.

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