Cleaning dusty or dirty light fixtures tends to be put off for as long as possible but cleaning your lights doesn't have to be difficult.

It doesn’t necessarily need to become part of your daily or weekly cleaning ritual, just so you can give your lighting a "wow" factor.

Ways-Make-Your-Light-Fixtures-Shine

Whether they’re domes, pendants, chandeliers, or even recessed lighting, you should tidy up those hard-to-reach fixtures before they become an eyesore. Plus, it is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to update your home without going broke.

So here are 5 ways to make your light fixtures shine.

1. Ceiling Fixtures

Ceiling fixtures are complicated pieces that can get as dusty and as grimy as it can be. Remove the fixture cover and wash it on a sink full of soapy water. Dry and shine with a microfiber cloth.

Don’t put into the dishwasher because the glass can shatter and your dishwasher might get damaged in the process.

2. Light Bulbs

Thanks to new LED and CFL technology, bulbs these days have long bright lives. But they’re not immune to dust and dirt. The best way to clean it immaculately is with just your plain dry cloth.

Damp cloth is a big no-no because moisture or water can get into crevices in the lamp, which can damage the electronics. And never spray cleaning solutions directly onto the light bulb.

Most importantly, turn off the electricity to the fixture before tackling the cobwebs around it. For extra protection, put a piece of tape over the switch to avoid anyone accidentally turning it on. Or just turn off the circuit breaker for complete peace of mind.

3. Chandeliers

Crystal chandeliers need some proper TLC especially during pollen season. Dusting it on a weekly basis is enough but a thorough washing should be involved at least twice a year to make those crystals sparkle all the more brightly.

Before you start cleaning, take a few pictures (not for the before and after Instagram post) to help you remember where each crystal belongs to or where parts are supposed to be.

If it can be brought down, it would be better – for safety reasons. Lay it on top of a towel spread on a table. If it is huge, make sure you’re using a sturdy stepladder while cleaning it. Better yet, let a skilled handyman bring it down.

Mix a solution of 3 cups of water to ¼ cup of white vinegar and 1 ounce of mild dish soap to a spray bottle. Spritz each crystal. Let dry and polish with a microfiber cloth.

4. Recessed Lights

Use a long-handle duster, such as a Swiffer, to dust recessed lights on a weekly basis. For a more thorough cleaning, use a microfiber cloth to wipe the insides of canisters and the bulbs.

Again, make sure the bulb is cool and the electricity is off before cleaning.

5. Pendant Lights

Clean it in place but let the bulbs cool off first and turn off the light. Just use a microfiber cloth to wipe the outside of the globes as well as the extension rods and cables.