Lamp shades made from fabric can often benefit from washing to remove dust, stains, and odors that build up over time. However, care must be taken when washing fabric lamp shades to avoid damaging the material or distorting the shape of the shade. This article will provide tips on how to properly wash fabric lamp shades.
Page Contents
Should You Wash Fabric Lamp Shades?
In general, most fabric lamp shades can be washed, but there are a few factors to consider first:
- Material – Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk can usually be washed. More delicate materials like paper or mesh may not withstand washing.
- Construction – Lampshades that are lined or have additional decorations may be too complex to wash effectively.
- Age and Condition – Older or fragile lampshades in poor condition are not good candidates for washing.
- Previous Treatment – Lampshades that have been painted, varnished, or treated with fire retardant may no longer be washable.
If in doubt about whether a lampshade can be washed, it is best to spot clean only or have it professionally cleaned. When dealing with vintage or antique lampshades, err on the side of caution and avoid washing entirely.
Preparing to Wash Fabric Lamp Shades
Properly preparing lampshades before washing will help prevent damage:
- Remove any trim, fringe, or embellishments that may be harmed by washing. This includes any harps, finials or decoration on the top and bottom of the shade.
- Inspect seams and glue joints carefully. Re-enforce any loose areas to avoid separation during washing.
- Consider adding stitching around the top and bottom edges of the shade to prevent stretching or distortion of the shape.
- Presoak heavily soiled areas using a soft sponge and mild detergent before washing.
- Hand wash any delicate trims or embellishments separately before washing the lampshade.
Washing Fabric Lamp Shades
When ready to wash, follow these tips:
- Shake the shade outdoors to remove any dust and loose dirt.
- Wash by hand using a mild detergent and cool water. Avoid submerging the lampshade fully in water.
- Gently squeeze the shade to distribute the soap solution over the fabric. Do not twist, wring, or scrub the material.
- Rinse by spraying thoroughly with cool, clean water or blotting with damp towels.
- Avoid using excessive heat from irons or dryers that could scorch or shrink the fabric.
- Air dry the shade thoroughly before putting it back on a lamp.
For heavily soiled lampshades, a diluted bleach solution of 1 part bleach to 4 parts water can be used. Test on an inconspicuous area first and rinse thoroughly after bleaching.
Specialty Cleaning Options
Some fabric lampshades may require specialty cleaning methods:
- Dry Cleaning – Take apart the shade and have delicate fabrics dry cleaned by a professional. Reassemble once completely dry.
- Spot Cleaning – Use a soft sponge and mild detergent to gently blot stain areas only.
- Vacuuming – Use a soft brush vacuum attachment to remove surface dust and dirt.
- Steam Cleaning – Apply low pressure steam to the fabric using a garment steamer to freshen the material.
Drying and Storing Fabric Lamp Shades
Proper drying and storage will help fabric lampshades maintain their shape and look their best:
- reshape
- Line dry flat or hang to dry, keeping the shade in its intended shape by using a lamp base or other support.
- Speed up drying by using portable fans to circulate air around the shade.
- Once fully dry, press on low heat if needed to remove any wrinkles or distortion.
- Before storing, replace any trim or embellishments that were removed prior to washing.
- Store clean lampshades in breathable cotton bags or boxes to prevent dust buildup.
Common Questions About Washing Fabric Lamp Shades
What are the best cleaning methods for specific fabric lamp shade materials?
| Fabric | Recommended Cleaning Method |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Machine wash cool, gentle cycle. Line dry. |
| Linen | Hand wash. Line dry. |
| Silk | Dry clean only. |
| Velvet | Spot clean only. |
| Lace | Hand wash delicate cycle. Air dry flat. |
How can I wash fabric lampshades safely?
To safely wash fabric lampshades:
- Check that the fabric and construction can withstand washing.
- Disassemble and prepare the shade before washing by removing embellishments and reinforcing seams.
- Wash by hand or use a gentle cycle in the washing machine.
- Use cool water and mild detergent.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Reshape and air dry thoroughly before reassembling.
Can you put fabric lampshades in the washing machine?
It’s best to wash most lampshades by hand. However, some sturdy cotton or linen shades without embellishments can be washed in the washing machine using a gentle cycle and cool water. Place the shade in a mesh bag first for extra protection. Then reshape and air dry the shade completely before putting it back on a lamp.
How do you clean a fabric lampshade at home?
To clean fabric lampshades at home:
- Remove decorations and hardware.
- Shake outside to remove dust.
- Mix mild detergent with cool water in a bowl.
- Dip a soft cloth or sponge in the detergent solution.
- Gently blot stained areas on the lampshade with the cloth.
- Use a spray bottle to rinse the whole shade with clean, cool water.
- Blot excess water with towels.
- Air dry thoroughly before putting the shade back on a lamp.
Can you dry clean a fabric lampshade?
Fabric lampshades made of delicate fabrics like silk, velvet, or lace should be taken to a professional dry cleaner if cleaning is needed. The dry cleaning process is chemical-based so it is less abrasive on fragile fabrics. Take apart the shade first and point out any areas of concern to the cleaners. Reassemble once the shade is completely dry.
Key Takeaways
- Inspect lampshades and determine if the fabric is washable before cleaning.
- Disassemble shades and reinforce seams prior to washing.
- Hand wash using mild detergent and cool water for best results.
- Reshape and line dry thoroughly before reassembling.
- Some shades may require dry cleaning or spot cleaning only.
- Proper drying and storage keeps shades looking their best.
Conclusion
Fabric lampshades can be kept looking their best with periodic washing to remove dust, stains, and odors. By taking the shade apart, washing the fabric gently by hand, reshaping, and allowing thorough drying time, most basic cotton, linen, or synthetic shades can be freshened up safely. More delicate materials may require special spot cleaning methods or professional dry cleaning. With proper techniques and care, fabric lampshades can provide beautiful lighting effects for years to come.