5 Practical Tips to Clean Your Stair Railings Effectively

The point of homeownership is to have a house that suits the homeowner’s needs. For this reason, homeowners install various fixtures to achieve this goal, whether for aesthetic or functional purposes. Ideally, any fixture must strike the perfect balance between the two, especially if seen in plain view. An example of this is a stair railing. Stair railings are essential because they provide support and stability when going up and down the stairs. Without them, keeping balance and preventing falls would be difficult, especially for children and elderly people. Additionally, they can be used as a decorative feature in the home, adding character and style. However, maintaining them is tricky because even if they seem easy to clean, you must do it properly or risk damage. With this in mind, here are some tips when cleaning your stair railings:

1. Dust and Wipe Regularly

Stair railings should be dusted and wiped down regularly to prevent dirt buildup and maintain their appearance. You can use a soft cloth and mild detergent to remove dust and dirt. Start by wiping the top of the railing and then move down the sides. Make sure to get into every side to remove any dirt that might have been stuck there. You can use a toothbrush to get into the smaller areas if needed. After wiping down the railing, use a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture. Doing this regularly will help keep your railings looking clean and new.

2. Use the Right Cleaning Products

When cleaning your stair railings, using the right cleaning products is vital to avoid damaging the material. For instance, if your railing is made of wood, you should only use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to avoid stripping away the finish. If your railing is made of metal, use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to prevent scratching the surface. If you need to remove more stubborn dirt and grime, you can use a non-abrasive cleaner. This can be used on any type of railing as long as it does not contain harsh chemicals. Also, you should always use a soft cloth to avoid scratching the surface.

3. Use Disinfectant at Least Once a Week

When cleaning stair railings, using a disinfectant at least once a week is recommended. This is especially important if your railing is used frequently or is in a high-traffic area. Disinfecting your railing can help reduce the spread of germs and bacteria, leading to illness and infection. A commercial disinfectant cleaner is the best way to disinfect your railing. These products are designed to kill germs and bacteria on contact and can be used on any type of railing. You should follow the instructions on the product label to ensure you are using the right amount and not too much.

4. Avoid Oversoaking

When cleaning stair railings, you must avoid oversoaking them. Oversoaking is when the railing is submerged in liquid or cleaning solution for too long, which can damage the material and cause it to warp, discolour, and even corrode. To avoid oversoaking your railing, use a damp cloth instead of submerging the railing in water or other cleaning solutions. Make sure to use a cloth that is not too wet, as this can still lead to oversoaking. If you use a cleaning solution, only spray a small amount onto the railing and quickly wipe it away. You should also avoid using too much pressure when wiping the railing, as this can cause the material to become damaged.

5. Apply Varnish for Maintenance

For maintenance reasons, a varnish is recommended because it helps protect the stair railing from further damage and deterioration. Varnish is a liquid coating that can be applied to the railing to provide a protective layer. This layer helps prevent the railing from scratches, stains, or corrosion. A varnish coat can also help give the railing a glossy, polished look. When applying varnish to a stair railing, you must use a high-quality product specifically designed for wood or metal use. Before applying the varnish, cleaning the railing to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly is essential. Once the railing is clean, the varnish can be applied in thin, even coats. Conclusion Stair railings can effectively spruce up your home, but you must ensure it is always cleaned and maintained. While finding the right tools and solutions will be tricky, it will be worth it because your railings will always look as good as new. This way, your home can have a beautiful and safe addition that lasts many years. Bear Metals has what you need if you are looking for aluminium balustrades! We offer various top-quality selections suitable for any home at affordable prices. Call us today at 0800 7555 111 to request a quote!