Two experts weigh in.
Nothing stops me in my tracks quite like unexpected chandelier cobwebs.
They can instantly transform a room’s elegant ambiance into something…less polished (no pun intended).
Credit: Mary Katherine Morris
I dont know about you, but it seems like my light fixtures go from dazzling todustyovernight.
Lightbulbs gather grime and crystals lose their sparkle, dimming the entire room’s potential.
Restoring that familiar shine might take some elbow grease, but the results will be well worth the work.
Credit: Photo: Hector Manuel Sanchez, Styling: Liz Strong
I tapped two resources for their expert advice.
Greg Kowles is a specialist and restorer of furniture and decorative arts at New Orleans Auction Galleries.
I also spoke with Julian Edwards, the official chandelier caretaker at Le Pavillon inNew Orleans.
Credit: PHOTOGRAPHY: VAN CHAPLIN, CHARLES WALTON IV, STYLING: BUFFY HARGETT
Below, each expert shares his best tips for how to clean a chandelier.
Meet the Experts
How Often Should I Clean My Chandelier?
According to Kowles, the cleaning frequency for a chandelier depends on the environment where it hangs.
Ideally, a deep clean once a year is a good rule of thumb.
Chandeliers, especially those with many crystals or intricate parts, can be complex puzzles.
Be sure to see to it the electricity is off, too.
Before removing any crystals, ensure you have a soft place for them to land.
A dropcloth or sheet works well to prevent any breakage.
Be sure, too, to use a sturdy step ladder.
Regular cleaning helps maintain the chandelier’s sparkle, and therefore, the beautiful ambiance of your home.
