Clean Hanging Glass Light Fixtures in 3 Simple Steps

Are your pendant lights looking dull? Here’s an easy, three-step method to clean hanging glass lights and restore their shine.

There’s something satisfying about a row of matching light fixtures along a hallway.

I finally achieved that look after finding affordable glass pendants at Home Goods. I needed three for my hallway, scored two locally, and drove to another store for the third—each was about $49. A great bargain.

My sister has the same style but paid more after finding hers at a different store. We both love how they look.

Even with the three lights installed, the hallway started to feel dim. When I glanced up, the problem was obvious: the enclosed glass globes had collected dust and a foggy film on the inside.

three hanging glass light fixtures before cleaning in hallway of open concept room stairs to left of hall

They looked pretty grimy — dusty outside and hazy inside. Time for a proper cleaning.

How to Remove Glass from Hanging Light Fixture

close up of hanging light fixture hanging from hallway ceiling before cleaning

Start by removing the screws that secure the glass globe to the metal frame. Support the glass with one hand while you loosen the screws with the other to prevent it from slipping or falling.

removing glass globe from hanging light fixture for cleaning it

How to Clean Hanging Glass Lights

washing glass pendant in kitchen sink with dish soap and sponge under running faucet

Gently wash each globe with a soft sponge and a small amount of dish soap. A grease-cutting soap like Dawn works well for removing grime. Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap residue.

glass globe of hanging light fixture after cleaning in kitchen sink

Set the globes upside down on a towel to drip dry for a few minutes. I found microfiber cloths work best for drying because they don’t leave lint the way paper towels can. Some people recommend newspaper for a streak-free finish, though I haven’t tried it myself.

glass globe of light fixture sitting on towel on kitchen counter after washing with microfiber cloth next to it

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My Secret Trick to Streak-Free Glass

bottle of rubbing alcohol and microfiber cloth on counter next to glass light fixture

After drying with a microfiber cloth, lightly dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol and wipe both inside and outside of the globe. The alcohol helps evaporate quickly and leaves fewer streaks than water alone.

wiping glass pendant glass light globe with microfiber cloth

Make sure the glass is completely dry before reattaching it to the fixture.

hanging light fixture back up after cleaning

Reinstall the globe, tightening the screws while supporting the glass with both hands. Check that everything is secure before turning the light back on.

close up of light fixture with light off to show clean glass

Your glass pendants should now look refreshed and bright. Cleaning them not only restores their appearance but also improves the overall light in the space.

three lights hanging from hallway ceiling after they were cleaned

If you have questions or suggestions, feel free to contact me or leave a comment. Regular maintenance keeps your fixtures sparkling and your rooms brighter with minimal effort.

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