What's included
- Glass, metal, wood and fabric shades
- Cords, chains, stems and ceiling canopies
- Degreasing pendants near open kitchens
Not included
- Rewiring, rehanging or changing fixture height
- Replacing broken glass
Why it matters
Pendants hang at eye level for seated guests, so dust and grease are seen up close.
Open-kitchen restaurants deposit a sticky film on pendants that attracts more dust over time.
How AELC providers clean pendant lights
Every AELC Network Provider follows the AELC Source-Control Method: do not move the contamination; capture it or contain it. For pendant lights, that means:
- Identify. Note shade material, condition and any grease film; confirm the fixture is switched off and cool.
- Capture. Vacuum tops of shades and canopies with a soft brush on a HEPA vacuum.
- Contain. Wipe shades and cords with damp microfiber, supporting the fixture so it does not swing.
- Clean. Degrease or polish with material-safe products.
- Verify. Restore power and photograph.
Typical reach class: Standard Reach. About AELC reach classes.
How often should pendant lights be cleaned?
| Setting | Recommended frequency |
|---|---|
| Bars and restaurants | Every 1 to 3 months |
| Lobbies and retail | Every 3 to 6 months |
Grease, lint, humidity and how visible the area is can shorten these intervals. See how often high dusting should be done.
How much does pendant light cleaning cost?
Typical range: $15–$40 per pendant (per pendant). Large, decorative or grease-coated pendants take longer.
Prices are set by each independent provider. Ranges reflect published market data and AELC time standards. See the full above-eye-level cleaning cost guide.
DIY vs. hiring a pro
- Dust pendants weekly with a microfiber duster in high-visibility bar areas.
Safety and when to stop
- Never pull on the cord or let the fixture swing against glass.
- Turn off and cool before cleaning.
See the full list of red-light conditions and what AELC does not do.
Industries that need it
Pendant Light Cleaning: frequently asked questions
How often should bar pendant lights be cleaned?
Bars and open-kitchen restaurants often need pendants cleaned monthly to quarterly because grease and dust build up quickly where guests see them up close.
Last updated October 4, 2026. Reviewed by the AELC Method team. Above Eye Level Cleaning is a national network of independently owned cleaning companies; local providers set their own prices and perform the work.