How to Clean a Chandelier

Oct 20, 2024

If your home has recently started to look dull, maybe it has something to do with the lighting. Not the lighting scheme, but the grime (and build-up) of the fixtures, especially on the fancy pieces, like chandeliers. They need to be cleaned, just like the floors, furniture, and walls, at least once every 6 months, if not more. But the question is… how do I clean a chandelier? We’ve got the answers—come with us!

Plan Before You Clean

Chandeliers come in different materials (and shapes). Some have a complex hanging pattern of crystal, others have sleek designs with glass accents. There’s no one-for-all cleaning hack.

Take note of how your design comes together, and what products will work best to clean the fixture. It’s also a good idea to make a quick drawing of where all the parts go. Tip—A snapshot from a digital camera can also help.

Don’t be overwhelmed. All you need is a fine plan. The rest will be a quick weekend DIY task.

Gather the Supplies

It’s a pretty basic list…

A step ladder to reach the fixture.
A thick pad to go underneath the ladder (to protect pieces that might accidentally fall off).
White gloves (because crystal easily picks up fingerprints).
A microfiber cloth (for dusting).

Be Safe - Turn off the Power!

Extreme precaution is needed here. Work slowly and follow all basic precautions.

To get set up, switch off the power at the wall switch of the chandelier. It’s a smart idea to stick tape over the button, so it doesn’t inadvertently turn on when you’re working.

You can also turn off the power from the breaker box, but be sure to have alternative lighting nearby—you don’t want to be working in the dark.

Glass On vs. Glass Off

Glass on or glass off? The decision depends on how dirty your chandelier is.

Removing the crystal and chandelier is preferred for a thorough deep clean. It guides your hands to every nook and cranny of the frame. If your chandelier isn’t that dirty, leaving the bits and parts intact is a better, much faster solution.

Things to Keep in Mind

Note (and remember) a few important things before starting out.

First, never rotate or twirl your chandelier. This loosens its support, causing its crystals, or even worse, the entire fixture to fall out. You should move the ladder around the chandelier and clean it in portions.

Second, if the chandelier is difficult to reach, replace the bulbs as you go—and check for any loose screws or connections. Otherwise, you’ll have to go through all the hassle again after a couple of weeks to replace the dim bulbs this time.

Select cleaning tools carefully. An old makeup brush or paintbrush works great to sweep out dust from intricate designs. If your chandelier has grime, clean it with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Tip—Do not use it on delicate finishes, like gold leaf. Also, stay away from harsh chemical cleaners, especially those containing ammonia or bleach.

If you’re taking apart a particularly complex chandelier, label the crystals or sections as you go. Use numbered bags or even tape small pieces of paper onto the strings of crystals.

Glass On Method

Prepare a solution of one part isopropyl alcohol to four parts distilled water. Spray it on a sprint-free cloth and get to work. Rub and scrub, then immediately dry the fixture with a clean microfiber cloth. Go slow and carefully to make sure you don’t damage the ornaments or glass.

Tip—If your chandelier isn’t too dirty (and is also hard to reach), a feather duster on an extension pole would do the job 🧹

Glass Off Method

For greater access to the chandelier frame, we’d recommend disassembling the fixture (read: the glass-off method). You can wash the pieces with extra build-up under lukewarm sudsy water (with mild dish soap). For the rest of the parts, the isopropyl-water solution will work well.

Tip—To stretch the time between deep cleans, dust the chandelier with a lamb duster every two to three months.

Tips for Specific Chandelier Designs…

Modern Pendant-Style Chandeliers

Shop The Minimalist Dining Chandelier

For a chandelier with a brushed metal finish…

Use a non-abrasive, soft cloth dampened slightly with water.
Avoid harsh chemicals that can tarnish the metal.
Clean the acrylic light diffusers with a diluted solution of white vinegar and water.