Your spindles, handrail, baserail, and newel posts are, arguably, the most important parts of your staircase, not just in terms of safety, but aesthetics, too.
Together, these parts form what's known as a balustrade and they can be made up of a range of different materials – from oak and glass to a variety of different metals.
Being such a prominent feature of your staircase and in your hallway as a whole, you must make sure to keep your balustrade clean, if you want to keep it looking its best.
So, what are the best ways to keep balustrades clean? Discover our top tips below!
Balustrade materials
As we touched on above, balustrades can be made from a range of different materials, like glass, different types of wood, and different metals, too.
Some people choose to combine materials – such as oak and glass, for example – to create a totally unique and add visual interest to their space.
Of course, different materials have different cleaning and maintenance requirements, but overall, are simple, effective, and guaranteed to preserve their beauty.
Cleaning your balustrade
Ensuring you're using the correct cleaning methods is vital when it comes to maintaining your balustrade.
Let's dive into the different cleaning requirements below:
Glass
Glass balustrade panels are super easy to keep clean, and all they'll need is a quick wipe down once a week with warm soapy water and a soft, microfibre cloth.
This gentle cleaning solution will help keep fingerprints, dust, dirt, and other debris at bay and keep the surface crystal clear. For any stubborn stains, add a touch of lemon juice or white vinegar to your cleaning solution and make sure to buff dry with a clean, soft cloth for a streak-free finish.
Timber
Cleaning your wooden balustrade parts regularly is the key to keeping them in the best condition.
Every few days, use a soft bristled brush or your vacuum with the brush attachment to remove any loose dust and debris from the handrail and between any gaps in your spindles.
To remove any tough spots of dirt, a soft cloth that's been dampened with warm, soapy water should do the trick and will prevent any damage that abrasive cleaning agents and scrubbing tools can inflict.
Metal
Again, metal balustrade parts – like stainless steel handrails or wrought iron spindles, for example – will need to be cleaned at least every couple of days if you want them to maintain their good looks for decades to come.
Dust any debris away gently with a feather duster every few days and use a non-abrasive cleaning solution with a soft cloth at least once a week to get rid of fingerprints and other marks.
You can also use white vinegar to remove harsh stains and keep your metal balustrade parts sparkly clean.
Other maintenance requirements
Regardless of the materials you choose for your balustrade, keeping an eye out for any damage – like chipped or scratched glass or loose wooden handrails – is vital, not just to keep it looking good, but to ensure it's safe for you, your family, and guests.
If you do notice any signs of damage or wear and tear, you should repair or replace the parts as soon as possible to avoid any accidents or more costly damages down the line.
Need more balustrade maintenance tips?
Whether you're in need of more expert tips or need help planning a new balustrade for your home, our staircase specialists here at Pear Stairs would be more than happy to help.
Give us a call today on 01938 553 311 or email us at webenquiries@pearstairs.co.uk and we'll be in touch to answer any of your questions.
