What’s the Best Way to Clean Stained Glass?

Are your stained glass windows overdue for cleaning? Perhaps they look a little bit foggy. Or maybe it seems like there’s just not as much light coming through them. You may be wondering, does leaded glass need to be cleaned and, if so, how do you clean it?

After all, ordinary windows, sliding glass doors, and glass tabletops need cleaning. Otherwise, they’re get covered in dust and fingerprints. But with stained glass, the need for cleaning might be less obvious. Furthermore, the same chemical cleaners that you use on ordinary glass are far from suited for the job.

Here’s how to tell if your Fort Worth stained glass windows need to be cleaned and what the best methods are for getting the job done.

How to Tell If Your Stained Glass Windows Need to Be Cleaned

Stained glass windows look more like art and less like an ordinary window. So the idea of cleaning them might seem unusual. But, just like all windows, leaded glass needs to be polished and wiped down every now and then so that it stays clean and clear. If the colors look less vibrant than usual or you can see a thin film of dust on the surface, it may time for some cleaning.

What’s the Best Way to Clean Stained or Leaded Glass?

The key to cleaning stained glass windows correctly is gentleness. Use a gentle touch and gentle cleaners. We recommend mixing together some warm water and mild soap (with a neutral-pH), then using a soft cloth, like a microfiber towel, to apply the mixture.

What to Avoid

With leaded glass, it’s important to avoid anything that could cause damage. Don’t scrub or press against the window. Avoid using chemical cleaners like Windex at all costs. If the window is decorated with acrylic paint, you may just want to have a professional do the job for you. Paint is sensitive and can flake off very easily, especially if it is old. When in doubt, call an expert in Fort Worth who offers stained glass cleaning and restoration.

Get Professional Advice

If you follow the steps above, you’ll have no problem with cleaning the stained glass in your Fort Worth home or church. However, anything beyond minimal cleaning should be conducted only by a professional. For more information on cleaning or other maintenance topics, you can contact our office to speak to a member of our team.