Guide for maintaining a chandelier's radiance to prolong its shimmering effect.
Not Your Average Dust Busters
Got a chandelier that's seen better days? We've all been there - those glittering beauties can go from grand to gruesome real quick. The sparkle seems to fade overnight, replaced with a layer of filth that sucks the life out of your room's ambiance. But fear not, dear reader, for I've tapped two experts to share their top tips on how to restore your chandelier's former glory.
First up, we've got Julian Edwards, the self-proclaimed Chandelier Whisperer at New Orleans' Le Pavillon Hotel. Being the guardian of the hotel's storied antiquities collection, which includes none other than Napoleon Bonaparte's very own bathtub, Edwards knows a thing or two about keeping crystal and metal gleaming. And then there's Greg Kowles, a maestro of furniture and decorative arts restoration at New Orleans Auction Galleries. With over 200 to 300 chandeliers crossing their auction block each year, Kowles has seen quite the spectrum of dusty chandelier nightmares.
How Often Should I Clean My Chandelier?
According to Kowles, the cleaning frequency depends on your environment. Are you living in forced air and heat? Dust will gather faster. Close to the salty sea? You'll see more tarnishing on the metal. A deep clean every year should do the trick.
Snap A Photo Before You Start
Before you get your hands dirty, take a photo of your chandelier. With complicated structures and numerous intricate parts, these puppies can be puzzlers, and a visual guide will make your reassembly a whole lot easier. Plus, it'll help you remember the exact arrangement of crystals and components. And, of course, don't forget to flip off the switch before you get to work!
Cleaning Powerhouse: Vinegar, Water, and a Hint of Dish Soap
Kowles suggests using a basic glass cleaner like Windex, but for a more thorough cleanse, it's all about a simple mixture of lukewarm water, white vinegar, and a smidgen of Dawn dish soap. Soak the pieces for a bit, then rinse them off! To avoid any pieces slipping off during reassembly, double-check that the hooks are secure.
If your chandelier sports some bronze or brass accents, give them a lil' rubdown with mineral oil to enhance their shine.
Light Touches for Regular Maintenance
For those everyday dust bunnies, a light dusting every two to three months is enough to keep your chandelier looking fresh and fabulous. Don't forget to check and replace those lightbulbs when you clean, ensuring they don't go beyond the recommended wattage.
Cleaning Warning: Be Kind to Your Chandelier
When it comes to sensitive surfaces like chandeliers, it's crucial to use gentle materials that won't leave residue or damage the finish. A diluted vinegar solution is usually the go-to solution for its mild cleaning properties. And, if you must use Dawn dish soap, use only an eyeball-size amount.
Delicate Surfaces? Time for a Spa Day
If your chandelier's adorned with fabric parts, opt for a gentle soap solution such as Fairy liquid and hot water, followed by a rinse in cold water, to keep those materials looking their best.
So, there you have it - easy, peasy chandelier cleaning. Now, go forth and conquer those dusty chandeliers!
- When reassembling your chandelier after cleaning, take a photo of its current arrangement for easier reassembly.
- For regular maintenance, dust your chandelier every two to three months using gentle materials to avoid damaging the finish.
- If your chandelier contains fabric parts, use a gentle soap solution like Fairy liquid and hot water for cleaning, followed by a rinse in cold water.
- In the process of cleaning your chandelier, be mindful of the materials you use, as sensitive surfaces like chandeliers require gentle cleaning solutions like a diluted vinegar solution or only an eyeball-size amount of Dawn dish soap.
