How often should ceiling fans be wiped or dusted?

Most homes can get away with cleaning ceiling fans once a month, but in very dusty areas or during peak summer when fans run non-stop, every 2–3 weeks is better. Dust builds up slowly, and after a point it doesn’t just look bad – it starts spreading fine particles across the room whenever the fan spins.

You don’t need anything fancy. A long-handled duster or an old pillowcase slipped over each blade works well. Gently pull the pillowcase along the blade so the dust falls inside instead of raining down on furniture. Afterwards, a quick wipe with a slightly damp cloth removes leftover grime.

If you leave fans untouched for months, cleaning becomes a messy, time-consuming job, and dust can stick more firmly because of humidity and grease in the air. A few minutes on a Sunday or the first weekend of the month keeps them under control and makes the whole room feel fresher.