How to Clean a Ceiling Fan

Dirty blades can make ceiling fans shake and wobble. To keep them running smoothly, clean them often.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• All-purpose Cleaners
• Long-handled Feather Dusters
• Paper Towels
• Ladders
• Paper towels

1. Turn the ceiling fan off.

2. Position a tall stepladder beneath the fan in a place that will allow easy access to the blades.

3. Carefully climb the ladder and turn the fan blades until one is within easy reach.

4. Spray all-purpose cleaner onto a paper towel.

5. Wipe away dirt and dust from the top of the fan blade with the moistened paper towel.

6. Turn the blades until another dirty blade is within reach.

7. Spray a fresh paper towel with cleaner and wipe the blade's surface.

8. Continue the above process until each blade is clean.

Tips & Warnings

• Fans should be cleaned thoroughly this way at least every two months. For weekly maintenance, dust the blades with a long cloth or feather duster.

• Brass and metal fixtures should be cleaned separately with cleaning solutions appropriate to their composition.

• Never clean fan while it is in motion.

• Avoid exposing fan's motor to all-purpose cleaner.