How to Clean a Crystal Chandelier

How to Clean a Crystal Chandelier Without Removing the Crystals

1. Prepare the Work Area

   Move any furniture or accessories that are directly under the chandelier. Place a plastic tarp or drop cloth on the floor to catch any drips that might ruin the floor or carpet.

   Place a sturdy ladder or stepstool slightly off-center on one side of the chandelier where you can reach the crystals easily. Be sure to use a ladder that is tall enough so you can work comfortably.

2. Turn off the Fixture

   If you are concerned about the safety of the wiring, turn off the breaker to that area of your home, but be sure you have adequate lighting to work. Turn off the wall switch and allow the bulbs to cool completely before you begin cleaning.

3. Dust the Chandelier

   Use a feather, lambswool, or microfiber duster to remove as much dust and spiderwebs as possible. There is no need to push around loose dust as you clean. Dust the fixture, bulbs, and crystals.
   

   Tip

   Be sure to keep a fabric catch or padded blanket under the chandelier while cleaning it.

4. Mix a Cleaning Solution

   While you can use a commercial glass cleaner, a homemade mixture of one part isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol to four parts distilled water will leave the crystals sparkling. Mix the alcohol and water in a spray bottle for easy application.

   Tip

   Before climbing the ladder, put on an apron with large pockets to hold the spray bottle and the cloths you need for cleaning the crystals. If you have a ladder with a hook or tray, you can place the supplies in a plastic bucket for easy access.

   Take a couple of extra cloths in case you drop one!

5. Clean a Section of the Chandelier

   After climbing the ladder, spray one cloth with a small amount of the glass cleaning solution. Wipe all sides of the crystal and then switch to a dry, lint-free microfiber cloth to dry the crystal. Do not spray the glass cleaner directly onto the crystal because it may harm the finish of the chandelier fixture. Before you move to the next section, wipe away any dust remaining on the fixture or bulbs with a dry cloth.

   Warning

   Do not leave the ladder in one spot and spin or rotate the fixture so you can clean each section easily. Spinning the fixture can damage wiring and compromise the sturdiness of the installation.

6. Move the Ladder and Repeat

   Climb down, move the ladder to the next section, and repeat the cleaning steps until all of the crystals and the fixture is completely clean.

How to Clean a Crystal Chandelier With the Crystals Removed

If the crystals on the chandelier are very dirty, it may be necessary and easier to clean them off of the base fixture.

1. Prepare the Work Space

   Place a padded moving blanket or comforter directly under the chandelier in case you drop one of the crystals as you remove them. Place the ladder on the blanket slightly off-center from the fixture. Turn off the wall switch or shut off the breaker. Allow the bulbs to cool.

   In addition to a duster or dusting cloths, add a pair of needle-nose pliers to your apron pocket or bucket on the ladder. You may need the pliers to help unfasten the crystals.

   Tip

   If your chandelier has lots of crystals of varying sizes, it is helpful to take digital photos of the fixture before removing the crystals. Take photos from several angles to help you remember how to replace the crystals in the right spot.

2. Remove the Crystals

   Working on a small section, remove the crystals from the fixture. Place them in a large pocket or bucket. Once the section is free of crystals, use a dry cloth to dust the fixture and bulbs before moving the ladder to the next section.

3. Wash the Crystals

   Fill a sink or large plastic tub with warm water and a couple of drops of dishwashing liquid. Line the tub with a towel to help prevent any chips to the crystals.

   Wash each crystal using a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse well with cool water and dry with a lint-free microfiber cloth.

4. Reassemble the Chandelier

   Follow your photos to reassemble the chandelier crystals correctly. Wear a pair of white cotton gloves to help prevent smudges from fingerprints.

Tips for Keeping Your Chandelier Looking Its Best

• Dust the chandelier regularly to prevent a heavy accumulation.
• Do not use ammonia-based cleaners that can tarnish the finish of some fixtures.
• Consider changing the light bulbs while you are doing a thorough cleaning even if they still are working to save a trip back up the ladder!

When to Call a Professional

If you do not have a ladder that will reach the chandelier easily or if you are unsteady about heights, call a professional cleaning service.