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How to Clean a Ceiling Fan

Brian Gregory

By Brian Gregory
Updated January 12, 2024

Dust can build up on your ceiling fan, so regular cleaning is essential. Learn how to clean a ceiling fan to eliminate buildup and keep it working properly. Then, check out some important maintenance tips to keep your ceiling fan running smoothly throughout the year.

Skill

Beginner

Time

Few Hours

Clean a Ceiling Fan

Follow these steps to keep your ceiling fan clean and dust free.

Dust Ceiling Fan Blades

Lay down a drop cloth underneath the ceiling fan to catch any falling dust. Use an extendable  ceiling fan duster or a pillowcase to dust each ceiling fan blade. Just slide it onto each fan blade and move it back and forth. If you’re using a pillowcase, make sure to shake it out when you’re finished then toss it in the washing machine.

Wipe Ceiling Fan Blades

If your fan blades are extra dirty, use a damp cloth or paper towel an  all-purpose cleaner  to get them looking good as new. Follow the cleaner directions and be sure to test in an inconspicuous spot before applying cleaner all over the blade surfaces. Apply some dust-repelling spray after everything is dry to give yourself more time between cleans. Use a can of compressed air to clean out the ceiling fan motor housing.  

Clean Ceiling Fan Light Cover

If you have a ceiling fan with lights, wash or wipe down the bulb shades to get the most light from your ceiling fan. If the glass globes are dirty, remove them and gently wash them with warm water and soap. Replace them only after they’re completely dry.

Ceiling Fan Maintenance

While you're cleaning cleaning your ceiling fan and likely already have out your step ladder, it's a good time to check a few other general maintence items off your list.

Check Ceiling Fan Direction

Make sure your ceiling fan direction is appropriate for the season. There should be a switch near the top of your ceiling fan. If you can’t find it, check the manual for your particular model. A clockwise motion warms the room, while a counterclockwise motion cools it. When the seasons change, switch the ceiling fan direction to make sure you're getting the most out of your fan.

Replace Light Bulbs

Check your light bulbs and replace any burnt out ones. This is a good time to assess the type of light bulds you have too. If you notice your room always seems dim, consider swapping them out for brighter light bulbs and vice versa.

Balance Ceiling Fan

If your ceiling fan shakes, try a  ceiling fan balancing kit

Ceiling Fan FAQs

What’s the easiest way to clean a ceiling fan?

Ceiling fan cleaning is a simple task. You can use a  telescopic duster, a microfiber cloth or a pillowcase and a multipurpose cleaner to wipe down both sides of the blades to eliminate dust buildup.

What’s the best thing to use to clean a ceiling fan?

Using an extended ceiling fan duster is the best tool to clean a ceiling fan. An extendable handle means that you might not even have to get up on a ladder to dust the fan blades.

How often should I clean my ceiling fans?

Dust builds up over time. Plan on cleaning them once a month or whenever you notice a visible buildup on the ceiling fan blades.

How can you stop dust buildup on a ceiling fan?

There’s no way to stop dust buildup altogether. Regular cleaning is the best way to keep your ceiling fan working properly. In between cleanings, try using a dust-repellent spray to slow the buildup.

How do I clean other types of fans like an oscillating fan, window fan or box fan?

The process is similar to cleaning a ceiling fan. Unplug the fan and unscrew the front cover. Wipe the fan blades with a damp cloth and used compressed air to clean the motor and inner components.