A lampshade is an indispensable household piece in modern times. It can add a decorative statement to a room and soften the harsh light of a naked bulb. But it requires deep and regular cleaning to maintain its state, and you won't toss it in second goods or a warehouse, as some of them are pricey. Furthermore, those fixtures can become a hub for dust and debris without cleaning.
In our post, you can learn how to clean different materials of lampshades with some basic supplies.
How to Clean Lamp Shade Thoroughly in Easy Steps?
Before cleaning a lampshade, you need to turn off the electricity and then dust it from interior to exterior. Removing the lampshade from the lamp is unnecessary, but you always need to remove the dust from every type of lampshade.
- You can use microfiber dust to remove dust, hair and other household soils. Since dust travels downward and settles on the surface of the lampshade, you can clean it from the top to the end.
- Sticky rollers are another handy tool for dusting, especially when you have pets. They can easily remove fur and dander on lampshades. However, you should be careful and avoid putting too much pressure on delicate materials.
- A hairdryer is a great alternative if you don't have the other two items. Set it to the lowest heat and airflow, and then use it to remove the buildup on the shade. However, lampshades featuring embellishments should not be cleaned with a hair dryer due to the risk of loosening the glue.
Now, let's walk through different lampshade materials to clean it more effectively and thoroughly.
How to Clean a Fabric Lampshade
You can clean fabric lampshades with water and fabric detergent.
First, cool the lightbulb down entirely and remove the dust with a microfiber cloth. You can also use a disposable duster and lint roller. Then, you can mix mild water with fabric detergent or baking soda on a basin as a solution. Use the liquid to submerge half of the lampshade in the water. Fabric detergent could used to wash delicate fabrics, while baking soda could operate for yellow and faded spots.
Leave it to sit for 15 minutes, let the liquid dissolve, and experiment with the lampshade in the water. Use a soft cloth to scrub any stains, avoiding harsh scrubbing, which can deteriorate the lampshade material. If there are stubborn stains, add an extra drop of detergent on the cloth to wipe away those stains.
Finally, repeat with fresh water to rinse away any soapy residue. You can also shake the lampshade to remove water drops. Find a ventilated space, hang the lampshade on the rod, stand it on a thick towel, and let it dry.
How to Clean a Paper Lampshade
To remove stains or insect specks on a paper lampshade, use a soft brush or lint roller. You can wear cotton or rubber gloves to prevent stains from the cleaning process.
How to Clean a Plastic and Glass Lampshade
Use water and dish soap to clean plastic and glass lampshades.
First, make sure to let the bulb cool down completely and remove the lampshade. Then, use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe away dust from the surface of the lampshade.
Mix warm water and a few drops of dish soap to create a solution, and dip the microfiber cloth in it. Then, you could wash the lampshade, but be careful not to use abrasive cleaners, which could damage and scratch the graphics.
Finally, rinse the lampshade as usual with clean water. Then, use a dry microfiber cloth to dry the shade, and put it outside to dry it thoroughly to prevent water spots.
Final concerns
How to Clean Lampshades with Pleats
Pleats can harbor a lot of dust and debris, making cleaning them tricky. You can lightly dust the surface and corners using a soft brush or a lint roller. If that doesn't work, a soft-bristled paintbrush can be used to remove the trapped dust between the tight spaces.
How Often to Clean Lampshades?
Cleaning lampshades should be a formal, routine household chore. You can clean your lampshades whenever you deep clean your house or during upcoming festivals. We recommend cleaning lampshades at least once or twice a month, as this will prevent dust from becoming too embedded in them.
How to Spot Clean Lampshades?
You can do a spot test before you address the entire lampshade. Here are our advice steps: Mix mild dish soap with warm water to create a gentle DIY cleaning solution. Then, lightly dampen a soft cloth in this mixture and dab the stained area. Remove soap residue by dabbing the spot with a clean, damp cloth. Finally, allow the lampshade to air dry completely.
How to clean a yellowed paper lamp shade?
Fill your sink with warm water deep enough to cover the lampshade.
Add a small amount of dish soap, and if the shade is yellowed, include a few teaspoons of baking soda.
Let the shade soak for 10 minutes before gently washing it with a soft sponge and soapy water.
Can you clean a lampshade with a magic eraser?
You can use an art eraser while cleaning a paper lampshade.
Magic Erasers are made of a foamy material and work by gently scraping away dirt. Because they're abrasive, they can scratch the delicate surface of your paper lampshade. There, you can opt for an art eraser.
Can you use vinegar to clean a lampshade?
It depends on the lampshade materials. For non-fabric shades in the kitchen that have become greasy, a damp cloth with a bit of vinegar often works well.
Brass and metal window shades (sturdier shades)can usually be cleaned with a damp, soapy cloth.
