efficient and effective fan-cleaning techniques, as recommended by cleaning experts
Summer's Here, Time to Clean Your Fans Like a Boss
There's no denying it, that heat is sweltering, but don't let a dusty fan ruin your cool. Freshening up your fans for the season isn't rocket science - no fancy skills, pricey tools, or specialized cleaners required! Just a few simple steps and you'll soon see those fans blasting air like pros. So let's get you ready to keep your digs nice and cool.
Who's the Expert Here?Lauren Houser, cleaning whiz at Zep Inc., Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid under the Neighborly umbrella, and Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO at AspenClean offer their professional insights.
Get Ready to Roll
Before diving in, it's always smart to peruse the owner's manual, especially since different fan types may have specific instructions for cleaning. Unless you're breaking out your screwdriver, take extra care not to lose any screws! Remember safety first when dealing with electricity; make sure your fan is completely disconnected from power.
Here's how to whip your fans into shape, so they'll continue keeping your home cool all season long.
What You'll Need- Microfiber cloths or a feather duster- Vacuum with brush attachment (optional)- Small soft brush (e.g., toothbrush or paintbrush) or cotton swabs- Screwdriver- Spray bottle with water- Dish soap or gentle multi-purpose cleaner- Clean towels or rags for drying- Basin or sink with warm soapy water
Cleaning a Table FanWondering how to clean a table fan? Here's Mock's genius method using just dish soap.
- Disconnect the fan and wait for the blades to stop spinning.
- If your fan is take-apartable, do so following the manufacturer instructions. Not a problem if your fan isn't? You can still get a deep clean without worrying about misplacing any screws.
- Use a microfiber cloth or feather duster to gently wipe away the dust from the fan blades. For stubborn dust, try the dusting brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, clean cotton swabs, or a sanitized toothbrush head.
- For more grime, use a diluted dish soap solution spraying it on a damp microfiber cloth or sponge. "Avoid wetting the cloth too much to prevent water from reaching the fan's motor or electrical components," cautions Mock. Brush gently, rinse, and dry completely.
- Dry each part thoroughly with a clean cloth before reassembling and plugging the fan back in.
Standing Fan Cleaning
Stand fans can be lifesavers during those hot days. Here's a simple step-by-step guide from Sokolowski to make them sparkle again.
- Disconnect the fan for safety reasons. Adjust the fan's height for easier handling.
- Odor off the front grill by detaching it either using a screwdriver or unclipping it, depending on the model. Unfasten the blades as well.
- Soak the blades in warm, soapy water. Scrub gently with a toothbrush, rinse, and dry well.
- Wipe down the grill, stand, and base using a damp microfiber cloth with a little cleaner. Dry thoroughly.
- Clean around the motor housing with a dry towel or microfiber cloth, being careful not to introduce moisture into the motor.
- Vacuum or blow out dust from the motor vents.
- Upon reassembly, ensure everything is dry before plugging in and testing the fan.
Oscillating Fan Cleaning
Oscillating fans are pretty slick, often being bladeless or having internal ones and circulating air through vents. They can collect dust in the vents, but fret not - here's Houser's easy guide to cleaning them.
- Unscrew and disconnect the fan to prevent accidents. Move it to an open area or lay an old sheet underneath it.
- Check for openings or panels. Remove internal parts using the guide in your owner's manual.
- Use a vacuum with the soft brush attachment to remove dust from tight spaces. A clean, soft paintbrush can be helpful to loosen dust in tight spots or on fan blades. Vacuum afterwards to collect the dust.
- If your oscillating fan doesn't open up, just vacuum the intake and exhaust vents from the outside using the brush attachment.
- Dampen a clean microfiber cloth slightly with a gentle cleaner solution, then wipe the intake and outlet vents, as well as the front grille and any slats on the casing. For narrow vent slits, wrap the damp cloth around a thin tool, like a ruler or toothbrush end, to clean inside.
- Clean the control panel and base using a multi-surface cleaner or dish soap and water to remove dirty fingerprints and dust. The base, particularly prone to dust and floor grime, can be cleaned in a similar manner, leaving the fan gleaming.
- Carefully reassemble the fan, tightening screws and clips securely. Test the fan to ensure it's functioning properly. The fan should circulate clean air now!
Pro TipsMicrofiber cloths are the go-to for general dusting since they trap dirt without redistributing it. Be cautious with feather dusters to prevent scattering dust. If stubborn grime crops up, consider using compressed air to blow away the dirt. And finally,regular cleaning will help maintain your fan's efficiency and keep dust from circulating in your home. Enjoy your freshly cleaned fans, sir or madam!
Martha Stewart, with her expertise in lifestyle and home-and-garden matters, would likely advocate for a consistent cleaning organizing routine to ensure fans are thoroughly cleaned and operating efficiently throughout the summer season. In fact, following the professional insights from experts like Lauren Houser, Marla Mock, and Alicia Sokolowski, one can easily implement simple and effective fan cleaning methods to maintain a healthy and cool home environment.
