Protect and Preserve the Glass in Your Home

Leadlight doors consist of pieces of stained glass held in place by metal frames. They make an elegant feature of any home, especially a period house. But if you are to keep them at their best, they will need regular and careful cleaning. Here is a quick guide on how to clean the doors without damaging the glass.

Use a soft cloth

Firstly, make sure you are using the right materials. Do not use abrasive scourers to get rid of heavy soiling. They risk scratching the glass, and once a scratch is established it will only get worse over time. Instead you should use a soft cloth or sponge. This should be enough to wipe away any grime that has built up and will not damage the delicate stained glass underneath.

Dust daily

Dusting the glass every day with a soft cloth will help to remove any particles of dirt that have started to build up. A quick wipe will stop most of the dirt from accumulating in the first place and will make your regular clean a much easier task.

Use a mild detergent

You should avoid using harsh commercial cleaners. Although they may promise a perfect finish, they can also damage the glass. Instead a mild soap in warm water should be enough to get rid of the dirt - and warm water on its own will do a decent job.

Use an old toothbrush

It can be difficult to get into the corners of smaller panes, which can make them a magnet for grime and muck. An old toothbrush is ideal to get the dirt out - preferably a soft one. You can also use a q-tip for the same purpose.

Dry thoroughly

The glass needs to be properly dried, but should not be polished vigorously. Instead you should gently pat the panes with a dry cloth and some chalk powder. This should remove any moisture whilst ensuring that there are no streaks left on the glass.

Get the professionals

Finally, if there is persistent dirt that you can't get rid of, or if you are just worried about damaging the glass, don't be afraid to call in a professional glass cleaner who will have the skills and experience to do the job properly.

Regular gentle cleaning will ensure that your leadlight doors stay in top condition and remain an inviting and striking feature of your house.