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Image Credit: FollowTheFlow/Getty Images- Skill Level: Beginner
A well-chosen lampshade atop a matching lamp base, placed in the perfect spot, can make a bold statement in your room—unless it's covered in dust, cobwebs, and bug remnants. A dirty lampshade can also affect the lighting in the room, particularly task lighting. Thankfully, with just a few basic tools, you can easily clean fabric, paper, plastic, and glass lampshades in no time.
To remove dust from a fabric or paper shade, try using a hairdryer set to low or no heat. Hold the dryer at least 8 inches away from the shade to avoid damaging any delicate trim.
Essential Tools and Supplies
Required Equipment and Tools
- Hair dryer
- Lint roller
- Soft-bristled paintbrush (new)
- Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment
- Art gum eraser
- Microfiber cloths
- Large sink or bathtub
- Clothes hanger with clips for skirts
Necessary Materials
- Disposable dusting tool
- Dishwashing soap
- Gentle laundry detergent
Instructions for Fabric Lampshade Cleaning
Steps for Cleaning Fabric Lampshades
When your fabric lampshade requires more than just dusting, a gentle wash may be necessary. Before washing, if possible, remove any delicate embellishments like beaded trims or tassels that may not withstand the cleaning process.
Dust Removal Method
First, turn off the lamp and detach the shade. Use a microfiber cloth, a disposable duster, a lint roller, or a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to carefully remove dust from both the interior and exterior of the shade. Be gentle to avoid fabric damage.
A soft-bristled, clean paintbrush is ideal for gently removing dust from the folds of a pleated lampshade.
Prepare a Lampshade Cleaning Solution
In a clean, large sink, plastic basin, or bathtub, pour enough lukewarm water to cover at least half of the lampshade’s height. Add two teaspoons of a mild detergent such as Woolite or liquid Castile soap and stir the mixture well.
Treat Stains Before Cleaning
If there are stains from insects, food splashes, or yellowing, pretreat them to help remove the stains. Combine a tablespoon (or more if there are several stains) of detergent in a small bowl with warm water to create a paste. Use a clean microfiber cloth to gently rub the paste into the stained areas in small circles. Let the paste sit for 15 minutes before continuing the cleaning process.
Clean the Lampshade
Hold the lampshade by its top wire supports and gently lower it into the soapy water. Allow the submerged portion to soak for 10 minutes. Rotate the shade every 10 minutes to ensure that all surfaces receive an equal soak. Once soaking is complete, dip a microfiber cloth into the soapy water and carefully wipe down both the inside and outside of the lampshade from top to bottom.
Rinse, Dry, and Polish
- After cleaning the lampshade, lift it out of the soapy water. Refill the container with cool, clean water and gently swish the lampshade through the water to rinse, making sure every surface is submerged. Remove the shade, drain the water, and refill the container for a second rinse. Repeat the process with fresh water until no suds remain.
- Once rinsed, gently shake the lampshade to remove excess water. Lay a thick bath towel flat and place the lampshade upright to air dry. Alternatively, you can hang the lampshade using an adjustable clip skirt hanger to allow it to drip dry.
- Once completely dry (this may take up to 24 hours), reattach any embellishments you removed and place the shade back onto the lamp.
Cleaning Paper Lampshades
Washing paper lampshades may not be effective, but there are alternative ways to clean and restore their brightness. Begin by removing the shade and dusting it thoroughly. Dampen a clean microfiber cloth with water, making sure it's not soaking wet. Starting from the top, gently apply pressure while wiping both the outside and inside of the shade. As the cloth collects dirt, move to a fresh section to continue cleaning.
Place the lampshade upright on a bath towel and let it air dry. If stubborn marks like insect specks remain, try gently rubbing them off using an art gum eraser. Remember to support the other side of the shade with your hand to avoid leaving any dents as you 'erase' the stains.
How to Clean Glass and Plastic Lampshades
The best way to clean glass and plastic lampshades is by handwashing them with warm water and a small amount of dishwashing liquid. Use a soft dishcloth and avoid harsh scrubbing to protect any printed designs. After rinsing thoroughly, immediately dry the shade with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots and streaks.
Always ensure the lampshade has completely cooled before immersing it in soapy water to prevent cracking!
How Often Should You Clean Lampshades?
Lampshades (and their bases) should be dusted weekly to remove dust and spiderwebs. Check each shade at least four times a year to assess when it needs a deeper cleaning. The frequency of a more thorough clean will depend on your home's air quality and where the lamp is placed. Factors such as airborne grease, cigarette tar, fireplace smoke and ash, and excessive dust can all affect the lampshade's condition.
