Ceiling Fan Cleaning Hacks
Innovative Ways To Keep Your Ceiling Fans Clean
Cost-Effective Techniques To Upkeep Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans bring comfort and air circulation into houses throughout the year, although they harbor lots of dust, grime, and allergens, most of which must be cleaned often. In return, having your ceiling fan clean pays off with assurance in its performance, contributing a great deal toward good indoor environments. This guide presents some practical and effective ceiling fan cleaning hacks that you may apply, simplifying the process for the continued cleanliness of your ceiling fan.
Improve the quality of air
By removing the dust that naturally builds up over time, you help keep allergens from circulating in your home, thus making the air you breathe much cleaner.
Improve Efficiency
Cleaning your fan blades allows these to move freely; thus, the fan works more smoothly and proficiently. This even helps you lower your energy bills!
Extend Lifespan
Regular cleaning of your ceiling fan will prevent dirt from stressing the motor; thus, it will last longer and do a better job.
Now that you see why it is important to keep your ceiling fan clean, let's explore some practical tips and tricks that can make this job simple!
Preparation Before Cleaning
Make sure you have the appropriate equipment and take the required safety measures before beginning any cleaning:
Equipment You'll Need
A sturdy stool or stepladder
An old pillowcase or a microfiber cloth
An extension wand attached to a vacuum cleaner
A vinegar-water mixture or a moderate cleaning solution
If you intend to disassemble components, use a screwdriver.
Safety Measures
Switch off the fan and allow it to stop completely.
Turn off the circuit breaker's electricity if at all possible.
Employ a sturdy ladder to prevent mishaps.
If you have dust sensitivity, wear a mask.
Use a Pillowcase for Quick Dusting
Cleaning ceiling fan blades does not have to be a pain, and using an old pillowcase is one of the easiest methods. Here's how it works:
Take a pillowcase and draw it over a fan blade in such a way that the pillowcase completely covers the fan blade.
Hold tight with the fabric against the blade and pull it back into the pillowcase to capture the dust indoors.
Repeat this for each blade, then take the pillowcase outside and shake it to remove as much dust as possible before getting it into the wash.
This hack is great because it keeps the dust contained, and cleanup is easy without having to make a mess.
Use a Microfiber Cloth for Spot Cleaning
For a deeper cleaning, one must have a microfiber cloth. It is soft on the blades but stubborn when it deals with dirt or any substance that tangles the appliance. Steps to follow:
Use a soft cloth, slightly dampened by a mild cleaning solution or a mix of water and vinegar.
Clean each blade carefully, paying special attention to the edges, as that is where dust builds up. When the blades are clean, use a dry microfiber cloth to remove moisture to avoid streaks.
This method is ideal for fans that haven't been cleaned in a long time and need the extra tender loving care.
Try the Attachment for Vacuum Cleaner
Long extension wands and/or brush attachments on vacuum cleaners can be a godsend when trying to reach ceiling fans, especially the hard-to-reach type. A number of them can work in this manner:
Attach the brush nozzle to your vacuum cleaner.
Run the nozzle slowly down each blade so that the sucking action can pick up dust and debris instead of scattering it.
After having vacuumed, take a dry cloth and run it over the blades so that they are completely clean.
Make Your Cleaning Solution
A homemade vinegar solution can cut through grease and effectively sanitize your fan blades. Here's how to use it:
Mix equal amounts of vinegar with water in a spray bottle.
Spraying the solution on the fan blades, especially those greasy spots.
Allow a few minutes to elapse to give the mixture ample time to break down the grime.
Wipe each blade with a damp cloth, then fully dry to avoid streaks or residue.
Remove Blades for Deep Cleaning
If your ceiling fan has removable blades, avail yourself of the feature of their removal to clean:
Carefully remove the blades with a screwdriver.
Soak them in warm, soapy water.
Scrub with a soft sponge, then rinse and dry before reattaching.
Cleaning Other Components of Fan
Motor Housing and Pull chains
Also, don't forget the motor housing and the pull chains. Use a microfiber cloth and vacuum nozzle to dust the motor housing and the pull chains. Wipe down pull chains with a gentle wipe using a damp cloth to remove grime.
Light Fittings
If your ceiling fan has affixed light fixtures, these may want attention too:
Remove the light covers and wash them in soapy water.
Dry thoroughly before reinstalling.
Use a soft brush to clean any parts that are not removable.
How to Keep Your Ceiling Fan Clean
Regular Dusting
Make it a habit to dust your fan once a week. This prevents its building up and reduces having to go through deep cleaning sessions.
Use Blade Covers
Blade covers are excellent for protecting your fan from gathering dust. They are easy to install and are washable for easy maintenance.
Change Fan Direction Seasonally
Most ceiling fans are fitted with a switch for reversing the direction of rotation. During winter, blades must rotate in a clockwise direction to press the warm air down into the room, while during summer months, they should move in a counterclockwise fashion to cool. Switching the rotation also ensures even wear and easy cleaning.
Use an Air Purifier
Additionally, an air purifier will lessen the amount of dust in the space, extending the time between cleanings for your ceiling fan.