Spring cleaning time is here. Don’t forget your lights! Your favorite Omaha electrician is here to give you some pointers on keeping your lights bright and clean. While cleaning light fixtures may not be at the top of your to-do list, it’s a simple task that can really brighten up your home. Accumulated dust, dead bug, and other grime cloud your bulbs, coverings, and fixtures. Knowing the best way to clean light fixtures without breaking or damaging them will keep your home brightly lit.
Supplies for Cleaning Light Fixtures
Before you get started, gather all the necessary supplies that will make the job efficient. We recommend:
- Extendable, electrostatic duster
- Step ladder
- Microfiber clothes
- Spray cleaning solution – 3 parts water to 1 part white vinegar
- Dish pan
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Lint roller or vacuum with upholstery attachment for fabric lamp shades
Steps to Cleaning Basic Light Fixtures
- Turn off all lights that you plan to clean, and allow at least 30 minutes for the bulbs to cool down. Before you touch the bulb, put your hand near it to make sure it’s not still putting off heat.
- Use your electrostatic duster or microfiber cloth and gently sweep or wipe bulbs, covers, and fixtures to remove surface dust.
- Fill a dishpan or sink with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap.
- Remove globes or light covers carefully. Once removed, dump any loose debris you find inside into the trash.
- Soak globes/covers in soapy water for 5-10 minutes. While they are soaking, unscrew light bulbs and gently wipe with your cleaning solution and cloth. All them to dry before putting them back into the fixtures.
- Dampen a microfiber cloth with cleaner and wipe the fixtures, including toggles or switches. Avoid spraying cleaner solution directly on the fixtures.
- Use a cloth to gently scrub any remaining grime from globes/covers, then rinse with fresh water and carefully dry with a microfiber cloth before replacing.
How to Clean Recessed Lights or Flush-Mounted Ceiling Lights
The rims that hold the light covers of flush-mounted lights attach directly to the ceiling. Remove the covers, soak briefly, wash, rinse, and dry. Gently wipe bulbs and fixtures with a damp cloth. Allow everything to dry before replacing.
Removing stuck dome light fixtures can be a challenge. It’s important to turn them counter-clockwise without pushing upward at the same time. Latex or textured work gloves can enhance your grip.
To clean recessed/can lights, remove and wipe bulbs with a damp cloth and let them dry before replacing. While bulbs are out, wipe the interior and exterior of the canisters with a dampened cloth and allow to dry.
Omaha Home and Commercial Electrician
Spring is a great time to get an electrical inspection if you haven’t had one in a while or never. We can inspect your home or business and make sure everything is safe for the coming year. A structure’s electrical components are just like the components to anything – they wear out and need maintenance or repair over time.
Call Today
Omaha – 402-731-1220
Lincoln – 402-464-4333