How to Clean Lamp Shades: Step-by-Step Guide

20 September 2024

Restoring your lamps.

If you’re like us, you know that we value a good, mid-century floor lamp. But just like most things in life, you need to take care of your household furniture and accessories.

Whatever material a lamp shade is, while it sits in your living room or bedroom side table, it gathers dust, grime, and dirt over time. Cleaning lamp shades not only improves their aeasthetic, but it helps extend their quality.

This guide was put together by our passionate lamp lovers and they will walk you through steps to take in cleaning the different types of lamp shades while keeping them fresh and vibrant.

Dusting Fabric Lamp Shades

Fabric lamp shades notoriously accumulate dust (which is really annoying), which can dull their appearance. Here’s how to remove dust effectively:

Tools needed: Microfibre cloth, soft brush, or vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment.
Step-by-step: Begin by gently wiping the shade using a microfibre cloth in a top-to-bottom motion. For pleated or gathered shades, use a soft brush to get into the folds and seams. If you prefer a more thorough dusting, use a vacuum cleaner on a low setting with the upholstery attachment. Be sure to avoid any delicate areas, such as trims or beading, by covering the attachment with a stocking for added protection

Removing Stains from Fabric Lamp Shades

For shades that have light stains or marks, you can clean them with a gentle spot treatment.

Step-by-step: Start by removing the lamp shade from the lamp base. Mix a solution of cool water and delicate fabric detergent. Dip a microfibre cloth in the solution and wring it out so it’s damp, not wet. Gently wipe the stained areas, being careful not to rub too hard. Clean the entire shade to avoid any watermarks. Once finished, allow the shade to air dry

Deep Cleaning Heavily Stained Fabric Lamp Shades

If your lamp shade has really tough stains, you may need to submerge it for a deeper clean.

Tools needed: Large container, any type of fabric detergent, sponge.
Step-by-step: Fill a large container with warmish water and a small amount of fabric detergent or soap. Submerge the entire lamp shade, ensuring the fabric and stains are fully immersed. Using a sponge, gently clean the surface of the shade, taking care around glued areas. Rinse it off thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely

Dusting Paper and Parchment Lamp Shades

Paper and parchment shades are more delicate than fabric ones and require extra care.

Tools needed: Feather duster, microfibre cloth, gloves (optional).
Step-by-step: Use a feather duster or a dry microfibre cloth to remove dust. For extra care, wear cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils from your hands to the shade. Avoid using water unless the shade is confirmed to be colourfast

Dusting and Cleaning Glass or Plastic Lamp Shades

Glass, plastic, and ceramic lamp shades are more durable and can be cleaned with a damp cloth.

Tools needed: Microfibre cloth, mild soap.
Step-by-step: Remove the shade from the lamp and wipe it down with a microfibre cloth. If the shade is particularly dirty, use a mild soap and water solution to clean it, then wipe dry

Cleaning Silk Lamp Shades

Silk lamp shades are very delicate, and professional cleaning is often recommended. If you opt to clean it at home, handle it gently.

Step-by-step: First, dust the shade with a microfibre cloth. If there are marks or stains, use a cloth dampened with a mixture of water and a mild soap to spot clean. Make sure the shade is not too wet, as silk can easily become damaged.

By following these steps, you can maintain the beauty and functionality of your lamp shades, ensuring they look as good as new. Regular cleaning will prevent dust buildup and keep the light in your home looking crisp and clear.