A crystal chandelier adds not only illumination to a space but may produce a dazzling effect if kept in good shape. Over time the crystals along with the fixture become dull by the accumulation of grime and dust. You may restore the original sparkle to your chandelier with a thorough cleaning. Even though it can be time consuming, even should you give yourself adequate time to clean the crystals and polish the brass, then you will be delighted with the amazing results.
Clear the floor area under the chandelier. Move tables or other furniture so you will have easy access to this chandelier throughout the procedure. Put a stepladder under the chandelier.
Put a folded towel in the bottom of the sink or plastic tub to safeguard the delicate crystals once you place them into it. Fill the sink with hot soapy water.
Put a folded towel in the bottom of a second sink or plastic tub. Fill out a the sink or container with hot water. Add 1/4 cup of ammonia to the water to provide the crystals additional glow.
Create a drawing of the placement of the chandelier crystals before removing them in the chandelier so they will be returned to the correct position. Alternatively, take a photograph of the chandelier to aid in replacing the crystals. Work on only 1 part of this chandelier at a time to avoid any confusion with the position of the crystals.
Turn off the electrical supply to the chandelier before starting your cleaning and rebuilding procedure. Turn off the electrical supply at the wall switch or switch off the circuit breaker that provides the fixture. Remove the bulbs in the sockets and place them apart.
Remove the crystals from 1 arm of this chandelier. Lift them out of the metal fasteners or hooks which hold them in position.
Put the crystals in the sink of soapy water. While the crystals soak, clean dust out of the arms of this chandelier, with a damp cloth. Shine brass arms with brass polish if they’re tarnished.
Take crystals one at a time in the soapy water and then wipe with a cleaning rag or dish cloth to remove soil or grime. Ensure to wipe along the borders. Put the cleaned crystals to the rinse water option. Remove them in the rinse water and wash every crystal, with a soft, lint-free fabric.
Return the crystals to the chandelier in accordance with your diagram or photo. Repeat the procedure with every arm of this chandelier until all sections are cleaned.
Wipe the bulbs with a damp cloth. Dry them thoroughly, giving special focus to drying the bulb base before returning them to the chandelier. Replace any burned out bulbs with fresh ones.