How to Clean & Repair a Chandelier

Keep your chandelier sparkling with proper cleaning and repair techniques.

A chandelier can be one of the most difficult things in your home to clean. Aside from being suspended high above the floor, chandeliers are often extremely delicate and fragile. Because of this, it is very important to follow the proper procedure when cleaning and repairing your chandelier. Keep the following tips and steps in mind in order to safely and effectively clean a chandelier.

Things You'll Need

• Terry cloth towels
• Foam craft block
• Instant glass glue
• Hanging wire
• Utility knife
• Mild dish detergent
• Thick quilt
• Warm water

Instructions

Clean Your Chandelier

1. Carefully lower your chandelier. Place a thick quilt beneath the chandelier in case any of the parts fall as you lower it down.

2. Remove the baubles, trimmings and pendants.

3. Line the bottom of your sink with a thick, soft terry cloth towel.

4. Fill the sink with hot water and a small amount of dish detergent.

5. Carefully wash the pendants, baubles and trimmings in the sink. Lay the pieces on a towel and allow to dry.

6. Reassemble chandelier from inside to out. Polish any water spots by hand as you reassemble the pieces.

Repair a Broken Chandelier Arm

1. Lay the chandelier down on a flat, stable surface.

2. Using an intact arm as a guide, create a mold from the craft block to hold the broken arm in place against the chandelier.

3. Attach the broken arm to the chandelier using the mold. Make sure it fits together perfectly.

4. Secure the broken arm tightly by winding hanging wire around the loose end and attaching to the top of the chandelier. Make sure that it fits snugly and remains lined up without assistance.

5. Loosen the wires to allow about half an inch of space between the broken arm and the chandelier.

6. Glue the arm to the chandelier. Re-tighten the wires so the arm fits into place. Wipe away any excess glue and allow to set for 24 to 36 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a diagram when you disassemble your chandelier so you remember where the parts go.

References

• DoItYourself.com - Chandelier Cleaning FAQs
• DoItYourself.com - Crystal Chandelier Repair