When it comes to keeping your home clean, there are some tasks that are more tedious than others. Cleaning a lampshade might not seem like the most exciting chore, but it's definitely an important one. Dust and dirt can build up on a lampshade over time, making it look dull and dingy. But don't worry, with a little elbow grease (and the right materials), you can get that shade looking good as new in no time!
Start with the right materials
When it comes to cleaning a lampshade, you'll need to gather a few supplies before getting started. You'll need a lampshade, a soft cloth, a feather duster, and a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.
Start by giving the shade a good dusting with either a feather duster or a soft cloth. If the shade is particularly dusty, you may want to vacuum it with the brush attachment. Just be careful not to get too close to the fabric with the vacuum nozzle.
Next, wet a soft cloth and wring it out so that it's damp but not dripping. Gently wipe down the shade, taking care not to saturate the fabric. Once you're finished, allow the shade to air dry completely before putting it back on the lamp base.
Remove the lampshade from the base
To remove the lampshade from the base, first unscrew the light bulb and unplug the lamp. Next, unscrew the harp (the metal rod connecting the shade to the base). Finally, gently lift the shade off of the base. Be careful not to damage or bend the shade as you remove it.
Dust it off
To dust a lampshade, you will need a feather duster and a soft cloth. First, use the feather duster to remove any loose dust from the shade. If there are any areas with stubborn dirt, use the soft cloth to wipe it away. Be sure to get into all of the nooks and crannies so that the shade is completely clean.
Give it a good wash
To give your lampshade a good wash, you will need a mild soap and a soft cloth. First, mix the soap with some water to create a gentle cleaning solution. Next, use the soft cloth to wipe down the shade, taking care not to damage it in the process. Be sure to clean all of the nooks and crannies so that the shade is completely clean. Once you're finished, rinse the shade with clean water and allow it to air dry completely before putting it back on the lamp base.
Put it back together
Putting the lampshade back on the base is a simple process, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the harp (the metal rod connecting the shade to the base) is in place and screwed in tightly. Next, align the shade with the base so that it is level and centered. Finally, screw in the light bulb and plug in the lamp.
If any decorations were removed from the shade during the cleaning process, such as finials or tassels, they can be re-attached now. Simply screw them back into place or tie them onto the shade. Be sure not to over-tighten any screws or bolts, as this could damage the shade.
