Cleaning a ceiling fan the wrong way just moves the dust from the blades to the furniture below.
- Slip an old pillowcase over one blade at a time and slide it back slowly – the case traps dust inside.
- Wipe the blade with a damp microfiber cloth while it is still in the case.
- Wipe the motor housing with a dry cloth.
- Shake the pillowcase outside or into a trash bag.
Check blade direction: counterclockwise in summer pushes air down for a cooling effect. Clockwise on low in winter redistributes warm air from the ceiling.