String lights are a great addition to any outdoor lighting project. They come in many different lengths, they can be waterproof, and they can act as a great source of ambient lighting.
But a question we get quite a lot – how do you clean outdoor string lights? The occasional drop of rain isn’t doing the job, so what should you do to clean them?
Let’s take a look.
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Can Outdoor String Lights be Cleaned?
Yes, outdoor string light can be cleaned with a solution of 70% water and 30% vinegar. Alternatively, there are pre-made cleaning solutions available such as this one.
If you find neither of the above are strong enough to remove the dirt or accumulated dust from your lights, you may want to mix a 50/50 solution of household bleach and water.
While we detail below exactly how to clean them, you will need to check that your lights are water resistant. In all likelihood they are, as most (if not all) outdoor string lights will be rated with the correct IP rating as being either water resistant or waterproof, but still check first to be sure.
We talk more about IP ratings for lights here if you’re interested.
How to Clean Outdoor String Lights (Step-by-Step)
First, prepare your solution of 70% water and 30% vinegar or 50/50 bleach and water in a bucket or large bowl, ready to take out to your string lights. Or, if you’ve opted for the easier pre-made solution, simply pour it into the bucket/bowl.
As well, fill another bowl with clean water, as we’ll need this for rinsing.
Once you’re ready to go, start by turning oof the power to your string lights.
If your string lights allow, remove each bulb from the string light. This will make it easier to clean and dry (and is probably the better option if you’re heavy handed like me!) but it’s not the end of the world if you can’t.
Next, using a soft-bristle brush (a toothbrush will do if you don’t have one to hand), dip it in the solution and gently scrub the bulb with the brush to remove the dirt. DO NOT dip the bulb in the solution – this is a sure-fire way to stop the bulb working.
The soft bristles should prevent any scratching on the bulb’s surface, but do take care not to scrub too harshly, as scratches may still occur if you’re properly pressing down on it.
Once cleaned, rinse the bulb with the clean water. Remember, don’t just dip the bulb into the water.
Let the bulb dry (or pat dry with a clean cloth or kitchen towel) and then re-attach the bulb to the string light.
Repeat this process for all of your bulbs, and then finally test your now clean string light to ensure everything is working as it should.
Closing Remarks
With a bit of manual labor, you can get your outdoor string lights looking brand new again in no time.
Just remember to keep things safe when carrying out your clean – turn the power off before you start, don’t submerge your bulbs in cleaning solution or water, and make sure they’re fully dried before reattaching.
Simple!
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