The Ultimate Guide to Refreshing Your Lampshades

Fabric Lampshades

To clean lampshades with a fabric or upholstered exterior (this doesn’t include silk lampshades):

• Always start by dusting. You can do this by using your vacuum’s upholstery attachment or with a lint roller to make things quick and easy. If your lampshade has pleated fabric, don’t be scared to really get into the nooks and crannies to clear the dust. Be thorough but gentle so you don’t accidentally damage the lampshade in the process.
• Fill your sink or bathtub with cool water (not hot or warm!) and add about a teaspoon or two of either clear dish soap or clear and gentle laundry detergent. Mix the soapy water well and then submerge your lampshades in the water and allow them to soak for about 5 minutes. You may have to move the lampshades around every few minutes to make sure that every bit of the surface gets submerged in the water.
• After the lampshades have been left to soak, swish them around in the water to further loosen and dislodge any dust and debris from the fabric. While the lampshades are wet, you can use an old toothbrush to gently rub at any stains on the surface of the fabric. Use a soft microfiber cloth dipped in the soapy water to wipe the entire surface of the lampshades clean.
• Remove the lampshades from the water and set them upright on a thick, undyed towel to dry. You can use another undyed towel to blot the surface of the lampshades and make sure all the excess water has been removed to speed up the drying process. Don’t use a hairdryer or fan to dry the lampshades, just allow them to air dry for a few hours.
• Once the lampshades are completely dry, you can reinstall them on their corresponding lamps. Be sure to check that all stains have been removed and that there is definitely no more water or dampness on the surface.

Paper Lampshades

To clean paper or parchment lamp shades (don’t use any water!):

• Put on a pair of rubber gloves and gently dust the surface of the lampshades with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Make sure you’re using a light hand when dusting and cleaning paper and parchment as these types of lampshades can tear and warp very easily.
• If there are stains or other areas of discoloration on the surface of your paper lampshades, you can use a dry-cleaning sponge (similar to a gum eraser) to gently rub and remove the stains. If you don’t have either of these available, you can cut the crust off of a piece of white bread and use the bread in the same way to remove stains and debris.
• If your lampshade has any oil or grease stains, you can remedy these by holding a soft, dry towel on the underside of the lampshade and sprinkling a small amount of baking soda onto the oil or grease stain. Use another undyed cloth or towel to press the baking soda into the stain and then allow the baking soda to set into the stain for about 3 minutes and absorb the oily residue. Once it has had time to work, gently sweep away the baking soda and check on the stain. Repeat the process as needed.

Rattan, Wicker, or Basket Lampshades

To clean rattan, wicker, or other woven or basket lampshades (don’t use any water!):

• Dust the entire lampshade using a microfiber cloth, a soft-bristled brush, or your vacuum’s brush attachment to dislodge debris from the nooks and crannies.
• If you need to treat any stains or discoloration, you can do this by mixing about 2 cups of warm water with ½ a tablespoon of mild dish soap. Use a soft sponge or cloth dipped in the soapy water and wrung out to clean the surface of your lampshade. You could also use an old toothbrush to clean between weaves. Wipe away any moisture and residue with a fresh cloth and set the lampshade aside to dry.
• Once the lampshade has been allowed to fully air dry for a few hours, you can replace it on the lamp or pendant light.

Plastic & Glass Lampshades

To properly clean plastic or glass lampshades (without fringe or other embellishments):

• Use a lightly dampened microfiber cloth to dust the exterior and interior of the lampshade. These lampshades are fairly easy to clean and keep clean with regular dusting and upkeep.
• While plastic lampshades will require hand washing, most standard glass lampshades can be washed on the top rack of your dishwasher in a regular cycle. If your lampshade is antique, excluding embellished, painted, or gilded glass you will want to hand clean it very carefully. Use a soft cloth dipped in warm soapy water to clean the surface of your lampshade, avoiding the gilding or embellishments, and then pat it dry with a fresh cloth.
• For plastic lampshades, you can clean the surface with a soft sponge or cloth dipped in warm soapy water. However, if you find that the surface of the lampshade is greasy or has streaks after cleaning it, add a bit of white vinegar to the water and clean it again.
• Once your plastic or glass lampshade is clean, you can pat it dry with a soft cloth or towel and leave it to air dry for a few hours. Reinstall the lampshade once it has completely dried.

FAQs

How do you keep lampshades dust free?

How do you know when it’s time to replace or restore a lampshade?

If your lampshade is discolored even after cleaning it, the glue is loosening, or if the interior lining has started to give out then it is likely time to start looking for a new lampshade. If the lining is the only problem, you can look into having your lampshade relined.

Why do lampshades turn yellow?

When your lampshades start to yellow, this is usually due to lack of cleaning but could also be from the heat of the light bulb you’re using. Be sure to keep up with a regular cleaning and upkeep routine to prevent your lampshades from developing that yellowish hue.