Ceiling fans create cooling breezes and circulate air to make a stuffy room feel pleasantly comfortable.

Knowing how to clean ceiling fan blades, globes, and chains is important for several reasons.

For one, a dirty ceiling fan runs less efficiently than a clean one.

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Credit: John Bessler

For another, those spinning blades can scatter allergens, dust, and other particles throughout the room.

Here’s how to clean ceiling fans without making a mess.

If your fan has glass globes around the bulbs, remove these after dusting.

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Credit: Brie Williams

Wash them in warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly before replacing them.

Spray the motor housing with compressed air to clear away any dust inside.

Otherwise, use an extendable duster to reach the blades and carefully sweep away dust and dirt.

Angle the duster head as needed to brush along the tops and edges of the blades.

Vacuum the area afterward to catch any remaining debris.

Frequently Asked Questions

No.

Use a degreasing cleaner or a mixture of dish soap and warm water.

Wipe the blades with a damp microfiber cloth and dry them thoroughly to prevent streaks.

After cleaning them, lightly wipe the blades with a dryer sheet or an anti-static spray.

This helps repel dust and keeps the fan cleaner for longer.