How to Clean Ceiling Fans
Just because they're out of sight, doesn't mean ceiling fans don't get dirty too. Ceiling fans are a main source of spreading dust in the air that could trigger asthma attacks or allergies [source: Harris]. Since you don't look directly at your ceiling fan every day, it's common to forget about it when you're cleaning the house. Here's how to clean your ceiling fans:
- Find a stepladder or sturdy chair to stand on, so you can see the top of the fan blades.
- Dust the exterior of the fan including the light fixture, motor assembly and bottoms of the fan blades with a feather duster or microfiber cloth. Leave the tops of the fan blades for later [source: Forte, ISU].
- Take a damp paper towel or microfiber cloth and carefully and slowly wipe off the top layer of dust from the blades [source: Heloise]. If you find sticky grime on top of the blades, check for signs that it's from oil leaking from the motor rather than simply airborne grease particles [source: Heloise].
- Use an all-purpose cleaner on a rag or paper towel to clean off any grease or grime, then wipe the blades dry with a clean rag or paper towel [source: Heloise]. Make sure no liquids enter into the motor [source: ISU].
- Remove the light fixture cover and clean the inside and outside with a mild all-purpose cleaner, dry it and then replace it [source: ISU].