Keeping lamp shades and light fixtures clean not only makes them look better, but also helps them function properly by allowing light to shine through. Here is an in-depth guide on how to clean lamp shades and light fixtures.
Assess the Material
Before cleaning, check what material your lamp shades and light fixtures are made of. Common materials include:
- Fabric – Cotton, linen, silk
- Paper – Parchment, rice paper
- Glass – Clear, colored, frosted, etched
- Plastic – Acrylic, polyresin
- Metal – Brass, iron, aluminum
Knowing the material will determine the cleaning method. Delicate materials like fabric, paper, and etched glass need gentler care.
Dusting and Dry Cleaning
For light dust or dirt, dry cleaning methods may suffice:
- Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to gently brush away dust and debris.
- For fabric shades, use a lint roller or sticky tape to remove surface dust and pet hair.
- Use a vacuum with brush attachment on low suction. Hold it a few inches away to avoid damage.
- Compressed air can be used to blow away dust in hard to reach crevices.
Dry cleaning works best for minor dirt. For heavier soiling, wet cleaning is needed.
Wet Cleaning Solutions
Here are common wet cleaning solutions to use:
- Distilled water – For glass, acrylic and polyresin shades.
- Mild dish soap and water – For metal and tougher plastics.
- Vinegar and water – Half vinegar and half water helps clean glass and remove hard water stains.
- Isopropyl alcohol – For glass and plastic shades. Helps disinfect.
- Laundry detergent – For fabric lampshades, use a gentle detergent.
Always use a clean, soft and lint-free cloth when wet cleaning. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch surfaces.
Cleaning Methods by Material
Use these cleaning methods based on lamp shade or fixture material:
Fabric Shades
- brush off dust first
- Spot clean stains with mild detergent and water
- For heavier soiling, remove shade and soak in detergent bath
- Air dry away from direct sunlight or heat to avoid shrinking
- For delicate silks and linens, dry clean only
Paper Shades
- Use compressed air or soft brush, avoid wet cleaning
- To spot clean, use distilled water and clean cloth
- Blot stains gently and air dry, avoid rubbing
Glass Shades
- dust first before wet cleaning
- Fill sink or tub with warm water and mild detergent
- Soak shades to loosen dirt, use soft brush if needed
- Rinse well, dry with soft cloth to prevent spotting
Plastic Shades
- Dust first before wet cleaning
- Mix warm water and mild detergent
- Use soft sponge or cloth to wash, avoid abrasive pads
- Rinse and dry with microfiber cloth, don’t rub vigorously
Metal Fixtures
- Remove bulbs, globes, and glass shades first
- Mix dish soap and warm water
- Use soft cloth to clean, avoid abrasive scrubbers
- Rinse with clean water, dry thoroughly with soft cloth
Dos and Don’ts
Some key dos and don’ts when cleaning:
DO:
- Unplug lamp before cleaning
- Work in a large, open area
- Blot stains on fabric, don’t rub aggressively
- Dry thoroughly before reassembling
DON’T:
- Submerge paper or fabric shades in water
- Use abrasive brushes or scouring pads
- Apply excess moisture to electrical parts
- Leave metal fixtures wet to avoid corrosion
With the right methods and care, your lamp shades and fixtures can stay looking bright and new. Handle delicate materials gently, and inspect electrical parts to ensure they stay dry and functional.
