Proper care and attention should be taken when it comes to looking after your stair parts, including your stair spindles.
But what exactly can cause them to fade, and what can you do to clean them?
Take a look at our guide to caring for your spindles for tips on how to successfully maintain them and help them last for many years.
What can cause your spindles to degrade?
Numerous factors can contribute to the deterioration of staircase parts, including:
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Dust - dust particles can gradually scratch the surface of your stair spindles over time and wear them down, causing them to look unkempt and shabby.
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Using harsh cleaning products - abrasive solutions can harm the finish of your spindles.
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Spillages - spills can cause permanent stains and discolouration if they penetrate timber spindles.
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Heavy foot traffic - naturally, frequent use of your landing and stairs may lead to scuffs, marks and chips throughout the years.
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Pets - while we love our furry friends, they can accidentally damage our stair parts. For example, they may scratch spindles with their claws or bump into your balustrade, causing them to loosen.
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Sunlight damage - UV rays can spoil the appearance of wooden spindles and make them brittle, which can impact the safety of your balustrade.
Cleaning your spindles
Taking care of your stair spindles is easy when you know what to do - here are our expert tips on how you can effectively maintain your stair spindles:
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Dusting
We recommend a weekly dusting routine to remove dust particles and prevent them from building up.
You can use a soft-bristled brush or soft dust cloth to gently clear any dust or debris - be sure to reach between each spindle and along their inner sides.
Then, vacuum beneath your balustrade to ensure you collect fallen debris to make your landing and stairs look spick and span.
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Cleaning
After dusting your balustrade, including your spindles, you should wipe them down to remove dirt and fingerprints.
We don’t recommend using water to clean metal spindles, as this could gradually cause rusting. Instead, simply use a dry microfibre cloth to remove marks and dirt.
However, if water and mild detergent are required to ensure your spindles look as clean as possible, be sure to dry each one thoroughly with a clean cloth afterwards.
How to make your stair spindles last longer
Taking preventative care is the most effective way to keep your staircase spindles in excellent condition - try following our preventative measures:
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Varnishing
To preserve the quality of oak spindles for stairs, you can opt for a lacquered finish or apply varnish. This clear glossy layer stops dust and dirt from collecting and resists spills.
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Ensure shoes are removed before using the stairs
Insisting that people remove their shoes before heading upstairs can prevent your spindles from impact damage, dents, and scuffs.
This is especially relevant for wide boots with clunky soles that may catch on your stair rail.
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Cleaning splashes immediately
Accidental spillages on staircases and landings happen occasionally, so you need to address them ASAP to give your stair components the best chance of staying in top condition.
Simply wipe liquids away with a cloth and apply warm soapy water if required.
Enhance the appearance of your spindles and boost their lifespan with regular dusting and spot cleans when necessary - this way, you can showcase a staircase to be proud of for longer!
Get in touch
If your balusters are beyond sprucing up, you can replace your old and worn stair spindles with brand-new ones from our vast offering!
From oak spindles to metal designs, we have something for all aesthetics here at Stair Crazy.
To contact our helpful team, message us or call us on 01942 365 509, and we’ll gladly assist you.