How to Clean a Skylight? A Comprehensive Guide

Clean skylights with sunlight pouring in makes the room look bigger and brighter. But if you look up and see a dusty, streaked skylight, the light seems dull. That’s when you know it’s time to clean your skylight.

Cleaning a skylight can feel hard, but with the right steps, you can do it safely and well. This guide shows you how to clean a skylight, keep it shining and skip common mistakes.

Why Clean Your Skylight?

Keeping your skylight clean helps your whole home feel fresh and open. Studies show that when dirt builds up, you lose up to 15% of that bright light. As letting dirt stay can lead to mold, leaks, or a rusty frame.

Many homeowners recommend cleaning a skylight every spring to make the kitchen feel twice as big. Cleaning your glass skylight often means a lighter, happier space for your family.

Safety Precautions Before Cleaning a Skylight

Safety comes first. Each year, ladder falls account for about 20% of all fall injuries among workers and a staggering 81% of fall injuries in construction involve ladders. Don’t be one of them. If your skylight is on the roof, use a safety harness and ask someone to spot you. Never stand or kneel on the glass. Even strong skylights can break.

These steps help you stay safe while you clean skylights:

If you can, use a telescopic pole from inside or from the ground outside. This keeps you safe.
Lay down tarps or towels to catch drips. Wet floors are slippery, so keep things dry.
Use safety goggles and gloves.

Tools and Materials Needed

Telescopic pole (for reach)
Soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth
Non-abrasive squeegee
Mild dish soap (not ammonia)
Spray bottle of water or vinegar solution
Rubber gloves and safety goggles
Old towels or tarp
Optional: Plastic spatula for moss or grime
Optional: Magic Eraser (test a corner first)
Optional: GoPro or phone holder to check your work

How to Remove Skylight Mold and Hard Water Stains?

Some stains are tough. Hard water leaves cloudy spots and mold can grow in the corners. Try these steps:

Spray 3% hydrogen peroxide on mold. Let it bubble for a few minutes, then scrub and wipe dry.
For sticky messes, use a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit, then clean with a cloth.
Use a plastic scraper for spots that don’t budge. Avoid metal blades as they can leave scratches on the glass.
For old or etched glass, use a glass polish with cerium oxide while wearing safety gear.

If stains keep coming back, check for leaks or water in the frame. It’s better to fix the source to stop stains for good in the long run.

Step by Step Guide to Clean the Outside of a Skylight

The outside of your skylight gets the most weather, so it needs special care. Pick a cloudy day to clean your skylight because the sun makes water dry too fast and leaves streaks.

Start by rinsing the skylight with a gentle garden hose spray. Avoid using a pressure washer as it can break seals and crack the glass.

If you see moss or bird droppings, use a plastic spatula to scrape gently. For stuck-on grime, spray a vinegar and water mix (one part vinegar to five parts water), let it sit, then wipe with a soft brush or cloth.

Next, wash with warm water, a little dish soap and a soft cloth. Rinse well, then dry with a squeegee. If you see spots, go over them again with the vinegar solution. For hard-to-reach areas use a telescopic pole with brush and squeegee attachments. Don’t rush cleaning and take your time for a clear skylight.

Skylight cleaning is safer from inside for most people. Start by dusting the glass and frame with a dry microfiber cloth. This removes loose dirt. Next, lay towels under the skylight to catch drips.

Fill a bucket or spray bottle with warm water and a teaspoon of dish soap. Wet a soft cloth or sponge, then gently scrub the glass in circles, working from the frame toward the center. If your framed skylight tilts open, be careful not to splash water into the frame. You can use a smaller cloth for tight spots.

After cleaning, use a squeegee or crumpled newspaper to dry the glass. Newspapers leave a nice shine without streaks. Wipe down the frame and check for leaks or cracked seals. Then dry the area and pick up your towels. You should see more light right away.

You can do most skylight cleaning jobs yourself with the right tools. But if your skylight is high, sits on a steep roof, or feels risky, call a pro. Professionals have the right ladders and harnesses and they know how to spot hidden problems.

You want your skylight to last. Clean your skylight inside and out at least once a year. Spring and fall are best because of mild weather. Each time, check the rubber seals or gaskets around the frame. If they’re cracked or missing, replace them.

Wipe down the frame and hardware. Use a drop of silicone lubricant on hinges once a year. If you see moss or plants, remove them right away as they trap water and damage seals.

Clean Skylight, Brighter Room

A clean skylight changes the feel of your whole room. With the right tools, safe steps and a simple plan, you can keep your skylight bright and clear. You avoid mold, stains and leaks and you get more daylight every day. If something feels tricky or unsafe, call an expert. Your home stays brighter and you stay safe.