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How to clean a Fabric Shade
By Martin Smith
Apr 4, 2008 - 3:35:38 PM

Here are some common instructions which you can follow while cleaning most lampshades. But, it is always suggested to approach a dry cleaner if you are not confident that these methods are applicable for some valuable or delicate lampshade you own.

The first step is to brush off or wipe the interior and the exposed surfaces of the lampshade with a dry and soft cloth or a vacuum brush.

The requirements:

-    A tub, sink or a deep vessel in which the shade can be comfortable submerged.
-    Detergent used for your clothes or liquid soap which you use for washing dishes.
-    A dry and soft cloth or brush
-    Latex or rubber gloves.

Take off all the non-washable accessories from the shade. Next fill the tub, sink or a deep vessel with water which is warm and add the detergent or liquid soap and mix it till it forms foam.


How to clean a Fabric Shade

Put the shade in the soap water and rub gently over the stains or soiled areas with a soft cloth\brush. Swirl the shade in the foamed water and dip it in and out a few times.
Refill the vessel with clean soap water once it becomes dirty and repeat the above process till the water remains clean and clear.

It may seem to you that the fabric has stretched, but don’t worry! Most of these fabrics regain their genuine shape once dry.

Once you are through with the process, let the shades dry. You can hang them over the bathtub or outdoor strings. In case the fabric was removed from the frame, replace it when it is still slightly moist.

Attach the shade over the lamp and switch on the bulb of the lamp. This would emit heat which would speed up the drying. Organize the shade in places it looks crumpled or ruffled. Once completely dry, you will be proud to see the bright and the beautiful lamp shade.

Cleaning a Plastic, Laminated, Fiberglass, or Parchment shade

In case your lamp shade is not of cloth, but of other material like plastic or fiberglass and is laminated, do not use a lot of water. One forth cup of warm water mixed with detergent is sufficient. You can use an egg beater or whisk to create the suds.

Use a dry cloth or sponge it. The suds should then be applied to clean the interior surfaces of the lamp shade. Go slow and clean smaller areas in one time.

If the lamp shade id bended or has gluing in some parts, do not rub strongly over such areas and remember not to make them too wet, as this can affect the glue. Once completed, rinse and clean with another damp or dry cloth.

In any of the above cases, always remember that the metallic reflector bowl is cleaned before the lampshade is replaced. To do so, you can use non-abrasive cleaners, which would ensure that the surface is not left with any scratch marks.

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