High ceilings, often exceeding 9 or 10 feet, add a sense of spaciousness to modern homes but are challenging to maintain. Dust, cobwebs, and grime can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. Essential tools for cleaning these spaces include extension poles, microfiber cloths, vacuum cleaners with attachments, step ladders, and extendable dusters. Regularly clean high ceilings, ceiling fans, light fixtures, and tall windows using the right equipment and techniques. For thorough and efficient cleaning, consider hiring a professional service like Tampa Emergency Restoration, which offers specialized cleaning solutions for hard-to-reach areas.
The standard ceiling height for homes and residential buildings is usually around 8 feet. But, high ceilings are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes, often exceeding 9 or even 10 feet in height. They create a sense of spaciousness that can make any room more appealing.
However, maintaining these high ceilings and hard-to-reach areas takes a lot of work. Dust, cobwebs, and grime can make cleaning a challenging task. Sticking to a regular cleaning schedule is hard enough for some, and adding high ceilings and tall furniture makes this chore even more difficult. That’s why we prepared a few top tips for cleaning high ceilings and hard-to-reach areas in your home.
Whether you’re dealing with light fixtures, ceiling fans, or tall windows, you’ll find strategies to keep your home looking pristine without the hassle. From essential tools to step-by-step methods, let’s see how to clean those high-up spots safely and efficiently.
Get The Right Gear
Proper equipment makes the task of dealing with high ceilings and hard-to-reach areas more manageable. The right tools let you reach greater heights and remove dust efficiently, reducing the need for multiple passes. Having the correct gear also makes it safer when you try to clean high places. Here are a few tools you’ll need:
- Extension Poles: These are versatile and fit various cleaning attachments. They allow you to reach ceiling fans, light fixtures, and other high spots without a ladder.
- Microfiber Cloths: They have excellent dusting capabilities and capture and hold dust particles like no other. They reduce the spread of dust and give a cleaner surface.
- Vacuum Cleaners with Attachments: A vacuum cleaner with specialized attachments can remove dust and cobwebs from high corners and along ceiling edges.
- Step Ladders: Sometimes, a ladder is necessary for those particularly high or awkward spots. Choose one with a wide base and non-slip steps for added stability while you work.
- Dusters with Extendable Handles: They are ideal for reaching into corners, crevices, and other tight spaces. You can adjust the extendable handles to reach higher.
- Non-Slip Shoes: Wearing non-slip shoes keeps you stable, especially when using ladders or standing on uneven surfaces.
Cleaning High Ceilings
Nothing can ruin your enjoyment of a high ceiling faster than spotting a wayward cobweb or an unexplained stain. But when you have the right gear and know how to reach them, cleaning is always a breeze.
Dusting and Removing Cobwebs
To easily remove dust and cobwebs from high ceilings, you should use extendable dusters. They allow you to reach tall corners and edges without busting out your ladder. Opt for dusters with microfiber heads, as they are the most effective for trapping dust and cobwebs.
To deal with stubborn cobwebs, consider using a slightly dampened duster. The moisture helps to capture the web without spreading it around. Start cleaning from the highest spot and work downward. This approach prevents the cleaned areas from getting more dust on them or debris falling from above.
Washing and Stain Removal
Start by creating a safe and effective cleaning solution with lukewarm water and mild dish soap. Adding a bit of white vinegar will remove even the most stubborn stains. Before applying any solution, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to see if it damages the ceiling’s finish.
To apply the cleaning solution, use a long-handled sponge mop or a soft cloth attached to an extendable pole. Avoid soaking the mop or cloth excessively to prevent drips. Use a dry, extendable microfiber cloth to blot and absorb any excess moisture gently. Consider using a portable fan to speed up the drying process for larger areas.
Cleaning Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures
Elegant lighting or a large ceiling fan is a stylish addition to any high ceiling. However, these fixtures also accumulate dust and require careful cleaning to maintain their appearance.
Light Fixtures
If the light is too high for you to reach, use the step ladder and put on your non-slip shoes. Remove the light covers and shades so you can thoroughly clean these components without risking damage. Use a soft cloth steeped in soapy water to clean the covers and shades..
Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the light bulbs. This removes dust and restores the bulb’s maximum brightness. Always check if the fixtures are cool before cleaning to avoid burns or breaking the bulbs due to sudden temperature changes. If you have a glass light, use a feather duster to clean it.
Ceiling Fans
One effective method for cleaning fan blades involves using a pillowcase. Slip the pillowcase over each blade and gently pull it back, trapping dust inside the fabric. This will minimize the mess and keep dust from spreading around the room. After taking care of the blades, focus on the motor housing and pull chains. Use a damp cloth to wipe these areas, avoiding any electrical components.
Cleaning Hard-to-Reach Windows
High ceilings often come with tall windows through which a lot of sunlight can enter the room. While the extra height is visually appealing, it also makes cleaning more challenging. However, you can tackle this task efficiently with the right tools.
Inside Windows
To clean the inside of tall windows, use an extendable window squeegee. These squeegees can reach higher areas without the need for a ladder. For a streak-free finish, first wipe the window with a microfiber cloth, loosening any dirt or grime. Then, use the squeegee, starting from the top and working your way down in a straight motion. Wipe the squeegee clean after each pass. Remember to clean the window tracks and frames, as dust and dirt often accumulate there.
Outside Windows
Cleaning the outside of tall windows requires an extendable pole with a squeegee attachment to reach these high spots. Use a garden hose to rinse the windows and remove loose dirt and debris. Attach a sponge soaked in a window cleaning solution to an extendable pole to clean the glass.
Scrub gently to loosen any stubborn dirt. Rinse the windows again with the hose, then use the squeegee to remove excess water, working from top to bottom.
High Shelves and Cabinets
High shelves and cabinets can add an elegant touch to any room. However, keeping them dust-free takes continued work. To effectively manage dust, use microfiber cloths and extendable dusters that can reach elevated areas without much trouble. Covers and liners can protect surfaces from accumulating dust. It’s advisable to clean these high spots regularly to prevent dust buildup.
Professional Service to Clean Every Nook and Cranny
High ceilings add elegance to any home, but keeping them clean takes dedicated work. You need the right tools and techniques to tackle those hard-to-reach areas effectively, but sometimes, the effort and time required are just not worth it. The best tip for cleaning high ceilings is to hire a professional cleaning service.
At Tampa Emergency Restoration in Florida, we offer professional cleaning services backed by over 20 years of experience. Our certified cleaning specialists use advanced technology to thoroughly clean even seemingly unreachable spots in your home. Alongside providing you with top tips for cleaning high ceilings and hard-to-reach areas, we can handle any job with expertise; so call us now for a pristine home!