I don’t know about you, but glass light fixtures are one of those things I forget to clean until suddenly, I notice they’re covered in dust (and maybe a few stray bugs—ew!). If you’ve ever wondered how to clean glass light fixtures so they really sparkle, you’re in the right place. Learning how to clean glass light fixtures is pretty easy, and you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in brightening up a room.
Henry and I have several glass light fixtures in our home, and we’ve quickly learned how to clean them efficiently in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Safety First—Turn Off the Power
Before you start cleaning, make sure to turn off the light at the switch (and even the breaker if you’re working with ceiling fixtures). The last thing you want is to accidentally get shocked! It’s also easier to see what you’re doing without the heat from the bulbs.
Step 2: Remove the Glass Fixture
This step can vary depending on the type of light fixture you have. For ceiling lights, you’ll usually need to unscrew or gently twist off the glass cover. For hanging pendants, you may just have to lift off the glass shade. Henry helped me with the taller fixtures because they were a bit tricky to reach—teamwork always makes the job easier.
Step 3: Dust First!
Before you wash anything, dust off the fixture with a microfiber cloth or a feather duster. My favorite microfiber cleaning towels is from Grove Co. that are streak free! This will help remove any loose debris, so you’re not just swirling dirt around once you add water.
Step 4: Wash the Glass With Natural Dish Soap
Here’s where the magic happens. Start by filling a bowl with warm water and adding a few drops of natural dish soap—I love using Mrs. Meyer’s because it’s gentle and smells amazing! Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water, and gently wipe down the glass. Avoid anything too abrasive, since glass can scratch easily. For those stubborn smudges or fingerprints, a little vinegar mixed with water does the trick. And if your glass fixture is delicate or ornate, washing it in the sink is a great option. Just remember to line the sink with a towel to prevent any accidental chips or cracks!
Pro tip: If your fixture is especially delicate or ornate, consider washing it in the sink for more control. Just be sure to place a towel at the bottom of the sink to avoid any accidents!
Step 5: Dry Thoroughly
After washing, wipe the glass with a clean, dry cloth to avoid streaks. You can also let it air dry for a bit if you’re patient (which, let’s be real, I’m usually not). Henry and I found that using a lint-free cloth worked best for a flawless finish.
Step 6: Don’t Forget the Bulbs and Hardware
While the glass is drying, take a minute to dust off the lightbulbs and the hardware. If you’re feeling ambitious, give the bulbs a quick polish with a dry microfiber cloth—just make sure they’re cool to the touch. Clean bulbs shine brighter, which is a nice bonus.
Step 7: Reassemble and Enjoy!
Once everything is clean and dry, reattach the glass to the fixture and turn the power back on. I promise you’ll notice an immediate difference! It’s crazy how much dust can dim your lights without you even realizing it.
Quick Maintenance Tip
To keep your glass light fixtures looking their best, try to dust them every couple of weeks. Maybe working this in as you do your bi-weekly house cleaning. This will prevent buildup and make the deeper clean a lot easier. (Though I totally understand if you forget for a couple of months—been there!)
Cleaning glass light fixtures might not be the most glamorous job, but the results are so worth it. Next time you’re doing your weekend chores, take a few extra minutes to give your lights some love. Your home will feel brighter and fresher—and you’ll get that satisfying “wow” moment when you flip the switch.
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