How to Clean Outdoor Light Fixtures? [Easy Steps]

Outdoor light fixtures are an essential part of any landscape design, providing an extra layer of security and illuminating any outdoor get-togethers or events.

Cleaning outdoor light fixtures are not complex, but there are a few tips and tricks you should follow. In this blog post, I’ll discuss all the steps you should follow, including what type of cleaning products you should use, how to remove fixtures safely, and how to reinstall them properly.

So, if you want to keep your outdoor light fixtures looking good and functioning correctly, follow this guide to ensure you get the job done right.

What You Need

• Protective gloves
• Old, flat paintbrush (for dusting)
• Buckets (two)
• Liquid dishwashing soap (mild)
• Hot water
• Soft cloth for cleaning (e.g.  microfiber)
• Ladder
• Screwdriver
• Old cloth or towel
• Mild glass cleaner
• Non-abrasive polishing paste or liquid wax (optional)

What to Do Before Cleaning Light Fixtures?

• To begin, turn off the light fixture.
• Disconnect the circuit breaker that controls the lights. This will help prevent shocks. 
• When cleaning fixtures that use light bulbs other than LEDs, wait until the bulb has cooled down.
• Lastly, if your light fixture has multiple components that need to be disassembled, create an assembly diagram or refer to the instructions.
• Prepare a ladder and other cleaning supplies.

Follow these steps to clean outdoor lighting fixtures.

• Set up: Once you have turned off the light fixture and disconnected the circuit breaker, you may want to set up a system that assists you with reaching the light. Use a ladder to access highlights. 
• De-assemble: Use a suitable tool to remove any shields, globes, or grills. For instance, a tool like a screwdriver could help you in unscrewing.
• Remove the light bulbs. Make sure all parts are set aside.

6 Easy Ways To Clean Outdoor Light Fixtures

Our 6 easy steps will help you quickly and effectively clean your light fixtures and restore their beauty. Not only will this help your outdoor living space look better, but it’ll also help you avoid costly repairs in the future.

1. Remove Globes, Shields, or Grills

Before going to clean your light fixtures, the first step you should do to remove any globes, shields, or grills. You can do this with a tool, usually a screwdriver.

After removing these pieces, set them aside on a soft surface, such as a folded towel, so they won’t be damaged while you are wiping down the non-removable parts of the fixture.

After that, you can submerge the globe or cover it with warm water and dish soap to clean it thoroughly.

2. Wipe Down Non-Removable Parts of the Fixture

Now, it’s time to carefully wipe the non-removable parts of the fixture. You can wet a soft cloth or sponge with soapy water and wipe down these parts of the lighting fixtures.

Make sure to keep any water away from the electrical components. You should also use a damp rag to wipe down the outside of the fixture to remove any dirt or debris.

3. Submerge the Globe or Cover with Warm Water and Dish Soap

Once you have wiped down all of these parts, you can submerge the globes or covers in warm water and dish soap for a few minutes, usually 1-2.

Also, you should clean glass pendants with warm water and mild detergent. Once you soak your glass globes in soapy water, rinse them and dry them up. Now they’re ready to be reassembled.

The exact process you can do for metal fixtures. You can use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the fixtures and then rinse them with clean water.

4. Apply Mixture onto the Surface of the Fixtures

Once the non-removable parts of the light fixtures have been wiped down, you can now apply a mixture to the surface. You can use a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice to clean and polish the light fixtures.

You can mix two teaspoons of baking soda with a bit of lemon juice to make a paste and then apply the paste to a soft cloth to polish the fixtures.

For a deck light cleaner, mix equal parts table salt, lemon juice, and cornstarch together to make a paste. Rub the paste on the fixtures and allow it some time to do its work before rinsing it off.

You may also wish to use paste wax or metal polish on the fixtures to protect them from the elements and keep them pristine.

5. Rinse and Dry the Fixtures

After cleaning the light fixture, it’s time to rinse and dry it. To do this, use a damp cloth to wipe down the fixture parts that were exposed to the soap and water.

Make sure that all of the soap is removed. Once this is done, take a clean cloth and wipe the entire fixtures carefully. If you need, you can use a hairdryer in a cool setting to help remove any remaining moisture.

6. Reassemble the Fixture

Now, it’s time to reassemble the fixture. Start by carefully placing each part back onto the fixture in the reverse order of how you took it off. Ensure all screws and bolts are firmly tightened, and check for any signs of corrosion or wear.

If needed, replace any defective parts before reassembling the light fixture. Be sure to use a non-conductive material such as silicone grease on the threads of each screw or bolt to keep them from becoming loose over time.

Finally, turn on the light switches to ensure everything is working properly. After cleaning your outdoor lighting fixtures, you can enjoy a beautiful evening outdoors.

You can read: How to Clean Oxidized Outdoor Light Fixtures?

Safety While Cleaning Outdoor Light

You should always be careful when cleaning items that are powered by electricity. Hence, do not forget to turn off the connection to prevent accidents such as getting shocked. 

Be careful not to get water in the socket or around it when removing the light bulb. In addition to damaging the fixture, this might also shock you.

Do Not Use

• Chemical cleaners that are harsh. They could make the fixture look dull.
• Since detergent/dishwashing soap can discolor bronze and copper fixtures, so wipe them rather than soaking them with soapy water.
• Try to avoid chemical-based all cleaners.
• You should avoid any cleaning products that contain ammonia or alcohol.
• You should avoid using abrasive cleaners or cleaning cloths with rough textures.

In conclusion, taking care of outdoor light fixtures is a relatively simple process that requires minimal effort. Cleaning the fixtures regularly will ensure they look their best and last much longer.

Additionally, using the proper cleaning products and techniques ensures that their protective coating will remain intact and safe to use.

So take the time to maintain your outdoor lighting fixtures, providing you with years of beautiful illumination and enjoyment.

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