Pendant lights are often missed in a usual cleaning routine. And while these lofty features are harder to reach, they do need to be cleaned from time to time to keep your home feeling clean and bright.

In this handy guide, we will highlight the different ways of cleaning pendant lights, and depending on the material, we will help you to maintain your pendant shades properly without causing any damage.

For safety reasons, please remove the shades from the fixture when cleaning your pendants, especially when using liquid cleaning products. If you are unable to remove the shade, an extendable duster will work just fine in a pinch.

Glass Pendants

Cleaning glass pendants one of the easier shades to clean, however we would recommend removing the pendant from the fixture before doing so.

Using soap and water, you can clean the surface and buff to a high shine. Just make sure that the shade is thoroughly dry before replacing anywhere near electrics. If removing the shade isn’t possible, you can use a dry microfibre cloth to polish the surface of the glass.

Metal Pendant Shades

There are several different metals that will need different methods to keep them clean.

Polished chrome only needs a dry cloth to buff out any fingerprints or marks and can be achieved quickly. Though be careful not to apply too much pressure or you risk scratching the high shine. We recommend a soft, dry microfibre cloth and buffing in smooth circular motions to get rid of any marks.

Brushed metals tend to need a little more of a firm buff. A microfibre will work equally well on this finish. If you find that the dust is not shifting, a little water can help clean the surface effectively. Just make sure that you dry it thoroughly to avoid any rust from developing.

Brass, bronze, and copper all develop a beautiful patina over time if left untreated. Oxygen in the air oxidises with these metals, transforming them from highly polished finishes into a richer bronze, a darker gold, or even a vivid green. If the patina is not to your taste, you can use a metal cleaner to gently polish these finishes back to their original shine. Be careful not to let any water sit on these finishes as it will result in harder to remove blemishes.

Fabric Pendants

Fabrics are a stunning material to use for shades, and are often backed with a plastic to give them shape. However cleaning these shades with any liquids, whether water or cleaning products, can damage these delicate materials. This is especially true for silk, suede, or paper shades. We therefore recommend wiping with a dry cloth to gently remove any dust and to help maintain this delicate material.

Plastic Pendant Shades

Depending on the texture of these pendants, you will be able to wipe over these with a damp cloth. If you are able to fully remove the shades, they could benefit from a thorough clean with some soap and water, just make sure they are thoroughly dry before replacing. If the plastic shade is highly textured, then dusting with a clean duster will yield the best results.

Wood, Bamboo, and Rattan Shades

For wooden fittings or shades, cleaning with wood polish may be a viable option, and a dry microfibre cloth will work in place if you are unable to take the shade down from the fixture. Avoid using water or damp clothes as water may stain or even warp the wood over time.

Rattan or bamboo shades can be tricky to clean, especially woven wicker shades, but this is nothing a dry duster cannot tackle. Try to use a duster that will not easily catch on the rattan and leave behind any fibres that will be tricky to remove.