How to Clean a Lamp Shade

A lampshade is a small cloth cover that is placed over the top of a lamp. The design keeps out an over abundance of light and shields the hot light bulb. Lampshades tend to collect dust and can cause your shade to block out too much light as well as make the lampshade look old and drab.

Things You'll Need

• Cloth
• Duster
• Baby wipes
• Fabric cleaner
• Soft bristle brush

Instructions

Weekly Cleaning

1. Turn off the light. Remove the lampshade. Typically, there is a turning mechanism on top of the lampshade to unscrew it. Some may have a metal holder that attaches to the light bulb. Lift the lamp shade to take it off.

2. Use a damp cloth to lift the dust off the lampshade. Wipe in a circle around the shade. If you have a large amount of dust or dirt, move the lampshade outside and use a duster. This will keep your floors free from rubbish.

3. Use a baby wipe to clean the lampshade. They are inexpensive, clean and will disinfect the lampshade. Start at the top of the lampshade, and using a circular motion, rub the weekly grime away. You may need to use four or five of the wipes to complete the task.

4. Let dry. Reattach the lampshade to the lamp.

Deeper Clean and Stains

1. Purchase a cloth and fabric cleaner. Bissell Fabric & Upholstery Cleaner with Brush or Woolite Fabric and Upholstery Cleaner are available in most local retail stores.

2. Apply three drops of fabric cleaner to the lampshade. Lightly scrub in circular strokes. Continue this action for the remainder of the lampshade. Use more cleaner if necessary.

3. Use a moist cloth to remove the fabric cleaner from the lampshade. Rinse the rag frequently. This will ensure that you properly remove all of the soap.

4. Completely dry the lampshade before placing it on the lamp.

Tips & Warnings

• Check a small hidden place on the lampshade before using the fabric cleaner. This will test for color changes from the cleaning material. Read all instructions and warning on the product of your choice.