How To Wash A Fabric Lampshade In The Right Way

Wondering how to wash a fabric lampshade without damaging it? Fabric lampshades are tricky to clean because they easily trap pet hair and dust. If you have white lampshades, you will even notice yellowing. This article shows you how to clean dust, slight dirt, and stubborn stains on lampshades. Let's see!

6 Steps To Clean Dust or Slight Dirt Marks and Stains

You can use this dry cleaning method if the stains and marks are in mild to moderate conditions, such as light dust accumulation, moderate stains, and slight dirt marks. It's ideal for lampshades made from cotton, linen, canvas, or polyester blends.

Project Overview

Working time: 30 - 45 minutes	Skill level: Easy
Total time: 1 - 2 hours	Estimated cost: $5 - $15
Application:  Fabrics that cannot be cleaned fully with water Daily cleaning Removing slight dirt marks or stains

Things You'll Need

Materials	Tools
Fabric detergent: To clean the fabric	Paintbrush: To clean hard-to-reach areas Compressed air or vacuum: To blow dust out of the fabric Towel: To dip into the solution and clean the lampshade Dry sponge: To remove dust and wipe the shade Masking tape or lint roller: To lift dust or small parties off the fabric

Step 1: Remove The Lampshade 

The first step on how to clean a dusty fabric lampshade is removing it from the lamp. Remember to unplug the lamp before starting this process to avoid accidents.

Step 2: Dust the Shade

Now that the lampshade is off. Depending on the level of dust and the type of fabric, you can choose from several dry cleaning methods as follows:

• Dry sponge/ microfiber cloth: Use a dry sponge or a microfiber cloth to sweep across the lampshade in sections gently. The sponge captures dust without scratching the shade.
• Vacuums & compressed air: Hold the vacuum about 8 to 10 inches from the shade and gently move it around. Alternatively, utilize compressed air to blow away the dust.
• Paintbrush/Lint roller: Sweep the paintbrush across the lampshade to remove the dust. For flat surfaces, a lint roller would be excellent. Lightly roll it across the shade, and your lampshade will be clean!
• Sticky tape: Attach the sticky side of the tape onto the fabric, press lightly, and peel it off. This cleaning method is ideal for shades with delicate fabrics.

Note: You can use a gum eraser to clean your paper shades.

If the stains persist after you try all the methods in step 2, your lampshade may need a cleaning solution to become stainless. Move to the following steps to save it!

Step 3: Remove Any Non-washable Trim (Optional)

Right here, you need to remove any detachable trims or ornaments. Sometimes, they are not suitable for washing with water. By removing these sections, you can protect them from getting damaged or watermarks. Set them aside and reattach them once the cleaning process is complete.

Step 4: Prepare Cleaning Solution

Mix a small amount of delicate fabric detergent with cool water. This is especially important if your lampshade is held together with glue, as the cool water won’t harm the glue that holds the lamp seams. You don't need much, just enough to create soap suds. You can also add baking soda to brighten your lampshade without bleaching.

Next, you need to clean the fabric without soaking it. Too much water may weaken the glue or even warp the shape of the shade.

Then, dip a towel into the suds and gently clean the lampshade in sections. Start from the top then work your way around. Don't forget to turn the shade to ensure you cover all sides. Always ensure the lamp is unplugged before attempting to wet clean the lampshade. 

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Once you've applied the suds to the entire shade, rinse it! Use a clean, damp microfiber cloth to remove soap residue. If you leave soap behind, the shade will discolor or attract more dirt later.

After rinsing, air dry the lampshade thoroughly. Place it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight because the intense heat may fade the fabric.

Pro tip: Avoid spot cleaning. Cleaning only part of a fabric lampshade can sometimes leave watermarks or uneven spots. So, it would be better to clean the whole shade to ensure a uniform finish. 

Step 6: Reassemble the Lampshade

At this step, your lampshade is clean and dry. You can put the lamp back together. Before that, you can clean the lamp base and light bulb while they are accessible. Just make sure they are dry first.

Next, if your lampshade has detachable trims, check that everything is in place before reassembling. Secure the shade back onto the lamp base and screw in the bulb. Finally, plug the lamp back in and enjoy the new look!

 

7 Steps To Deep Clean Stubborn Stains

Sometimes, if the stains are too stubborn, you need to give your lampshade a deeper clean. Yet, you can't deep clean all lampshades. You need to consider the lamp materials carefully. This method is suitable for tough fabrics like cotton. 

Note: If your lampshade is made of dedicated materials like silk or paper, let a professional cleaner do the job.

Project Overview

Working time: 30 - 45 minutes	Skill level: Easy to Intermediate
Total time: 2 - 3 hours	Estimated cost: $5 - $420
Application: Stubborn stains like watermarks or handprints Not suitable for delicate fabrics like lace, silk, or cashmere

Notes:

• Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or lampshade's care tag before cleaning
• Avoid washing if the shade contains glue or paper because they can warp or separate when exposed to water
• Consult a professional cleaner if you have valuable or intricate shades, like painted, embroidered, silk, heavily beaded, or vintage lampshades

Things You'll Need

Materials	Tools
Fabric detergent: To wash the lampshade; Plant-based detergents are ideal for delicate fabrics Baking soda: To brighten the lampshade and tackle stains when mixed with water Laundry detergent: To create a soapy solution for cleaning Dishwashing liquid: To create a mild cleaning solution	Lint roller: To remove loose dust and debris from the surface Mini vacuum with brush attachment: To remove dust particles Microfiber cloth: To wipe and scrub the shade Large tub/container: To hold water and cleaning solution Paintbrush: To scrub stains Towel: To dry the shade and absorb excess moisture Hanger: To dry the lampshade evenly Magic Eraser: To remove dust

Step 1: Remove Lampshade

First, unplug the lamp and remove the lampshade from the lamp base to avoid any electrical mishaps. Also, remove any embellishments as they can get damaged during cleaning.

If you are unsure how to disassemble your lamp, here is a helpful guide: How to Take Apart a Lamp.

 

Step 2: Remove Dry Dust

Get rid of as much dust on the surface as possible to prevent the dirt from turning into a muddy mess during washing. Here are some effective tools for this step:

• Lint roller: Roll it lightly across the fabric to remove dust and small particles
• Mini vacuum with brush attachment: Use it on lower power to blow away dust
• Microfiber cloth: Wipe the shade in sections to pick up dust
• Paintbrush: Use the brush to remove dust in tight spaces
• Magic Eraser: Rub the dusty area with a Magic Eraser

Step 3: Prepare The Cleaning Solution

You have several options depending on how stubborn the stains are and the type of fabric. So, choose the solution based on your preference and the shade condition.

For example, you can fill a clean bathtub or container with lukewarm water (only use cool water for glued lampshades). It must be deep enough so you can fully submerge the shade. Then, add 1 - 2 teaspoons of delicate fabric cleaner and stir the water to create suds. You can also replace the fabric cleaner with laundry detergent or dishwashing liquid.

Another tip is to add a teaspoon of baking soda to the cleaning solution. Similar to the first method, baking soda can brighten your lampshade.

Notes:

• Do not use bleach or detergents with harsh chemicals because they can ruin the fabric
• Do not submerge the shades for too long

Step 4: Wash the Shade

The cleaning solution is ready. Now, carefully dip the shade into it. Grip the lampshade by its upper wire supports and carefully submerge it in the soapy water. Allow it to soak for approximately 10 minutes. Rotate the lampshade as needed to ensure all surfaces are evenly soaked.

Also, use a microfiber cloth to wipe the shade. If the stains are too tough, you can apply the detergent directly to the fabric and scrub it in a circular motion. Then, rotate the shade in the water to ensure even cleaning.

Note: Fabric lampshades are sensitive. Hence, you should test with a small area first to ensure the fabric won't discolor or warp.

Step 5: Rinse the Lampshade 

This step aims to remove soap residue and prevent streaks. You can do it in 2 ways:

• Lift the shade out of the soapy water, then drain the container. Then, refill it with clean, lukewarm water and lower the shade back in. Next, swish it gently to rinse away the suds.
• Take the shade out of the tube. Then, lightly spray it with water and gently shake it to remove any excess water and soap. 

Note: Try to perform this step quickly to avoid oversaturating the shade.

Step 6: Let It Dry

After rinsing, you need to dry the lampshade. There are 3 ways to do it:

• Set the shade upright on a towel to dry. This method prevents distortion, suited for delicate material.
• Use a hanger to hang your shade. Since you use the hanger, make sure the fabric is lightweight and thin.
• Sit in the shade on your patio to air dry it. This drying method is suitable for sturdy and thick material.

Note: If the shade looks baggy after drying, you can use a hairdryer to tighten and straighten the fabric. Remember to hold the dryer 8 to 10 inches away.

Step 7: Reattach the Lampshade

Once the lampshade is completely dry, reassemble everything. Also, dust the lamp base and light bulb, reattach the embellishments, and secure the lampshade. Now, your beautiful lamp is ready to shine!

The cleaning processes will be different depending on the type of lamp. Check our articles for detailed guidelines on how to clear a brass lamp and stained glass lamp.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how to wash a fabric lampshade will help you keep it in its top condition. By following the detailed instructions above, you can easily deal well with all types of stains. Try them today and enjoy the results of your effort! If you know any cool tips, share them in the comment section below.

FAQs

Can I Put The Fabric Lampshade In the Washing Machine?

No, because the washing machine may damage the fabric. It would be best to clean the fabric lampshade by hand using a gentle cleaning method.

How Do You Get Water Stains Out Of a Fabric Lampshade?

You can remove water stains from a fabric lampshade in these steps:

• Remove the shade from your lamp
• Add warm water and detergent to a bathtub
• Submerge the shade into the solution
• Use a sponge to remove the stain