Outdoor light fixtures expose your home to beauty and security, but weather and time can leave them dusty, dirty, or downright gross. Learning how to properly clean outdoor lighting keeps them looking their best so they continue brightening up your home’s exterior. With simple cleaning solutions and tools you likely already have, those dingy fixtures can shine like new again.
Gather Your Supplies
Cleaning outdoor light fixtures requires just a few handy items:
- Mild dish soap or other gentle cleaner
- Soft cloths and cleaning rags
- Toothbrush or other small scrub brush
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Ladder or step stool
Avoid harsh chemicals or anything abrasive when cleaning outdoor lights. Stick to mild cleaners that won’t damage the finish.
Know When It’s Time to Clean
How do you know when it’s time to clean outdoor lighting? Here are signs your fixtures need some TLC:
- Dust, dirt, or grime visible on the exterior
- Webs, nests, or other evidence of pests
- Yellowing, fading, or flaking paint/finish
- Diminished light output, even with fresh bulbs
Ideally, clean outdoor lighting 2-4 times per year. Areas with lots of trees, dirt, pollen or moisture may need cleaning more often.
Make Safety a Priority
Any type of outdoor work comes with risks, so take precautions. Here are some tips:
- Use the proper ladder and place it on level, stable ground. Have a spotter for extra safety.
- Wear rubber gloves to protect hands from harsh chemicals.
- Turn off power to lights at the breaker before cleaning.
- Avoid standing in water while cleaning electrical items.
- Work during daylight hours for best visibility.
- Inspect for hornet/wasp nests before disturbing lights.
Clean Different Fixture Types
Not all outdoor lighting is created equal when it comes to cleaning. Follow these tips based on your specific fixture:
Wall-Mounted Sconces
Sconces mounted flush on a wall are easiest to clean. Simply:
- Spray cleaner onto soft cloth then wipe down entire fixture.
- Use toothbrush dipped in cleaner to scrub crevices.
- Rinse well with clean water on another cloth.
- Wipe dry with towel to prevent water spots.
Close-to-Ceiling Lights
Lights mounted close to ceilings or overhangs make ladder positioning tricky. To comfortably clean them:
- Use extension poles and scrub brushes so you can reach from the ground.
- Rinse by spraying a gentle stream of water from a hose nozzle.
- Dry with a microfiber towel on a pole.
Post Lights
Standalone post lights in your yard take a beating from weather. Give them TLC by:
- Spraying cleaner over the entire fixture and let it soak 3-5 minutes.
- Scrubbing with a stiff brush and rinsing.
- Drying well with a cloth to prevent rusting.
Chandeliers and Lanterns
Elegant exterior chandeliers and lanterns need special care. To clean:
- Dust them first with a soft brush.
- Spray a mild cleaner onto cloth then gently wipe each crystal, chain, or detail.
- Rinse carefully without spraying directly onto fixture.
- Blot dry with a towel then let air dry before turning power back on.
Give Painted Finishes Some Extra Care
Painted finishes on outdoor lighting need gentle care. Follow these tips to keep paint intact:
- Hand wash only using mild dish soap and water. Avoid pressure washing.
- Use soft cloths and plastic brushes instead of anything abrasive.
- Rinse thoroughly then dry right away.
- Touch up any chips/peels with outdoor-rated paint.
Harsh scrubbing or chemicals can damage the painted surface. Take a delicate approach.
Handle Glass and Plastic Components With Care
Glass panels, plastic lenses, and other non-metal elements need kid gloves during cleaning. To prevent scratches:
- Apply cleaner to soft cloths only, not directly onto surface.
- Gently wipe clean using minimal pressure.
- Avoid using abrasive scrub brushes or sponges.
- Dry thoroughly with microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
Watch for Signs of Wear
While cleaning, inspect lights closely for any signs of wear including:
- Rust/corrosion
- Cracks, holes, or damage
- Loose wires or connections
- Scuffed/faded finishes
Make repairs soon after noticing any deterioration to keep fixtures looking their best.
Know When To Call A Professional
Some cleaning tasks are best left to the pros, like:
- Extremely tall fixtures you can’t safely reach.
- Electrical issues like flickering bulbs or sparks.
- Large chandeliers with fine details.
Don’t risk injury or create bigger problems. Call an electrician or lighting company if a job seems too complex.
Enjoy Your Handiwork
With these tips for cleaning different outdoor light fixtures, you can keep your home’s exterior lighting looking fantastic. Take time every few months to remove dirt, grime, and dust so fixtures shine their brightest. Well-maintained outdoor lighting enhances curb appeal and sets the mood for alfresco fun after the sun goes down.