Can you wash fabric lampshades?

Plain fabric shades without glued trims can be bathed in warm soapy water. Always test first and air dry on the frame.

How often should lampshades be cleaned?

Dust monthly. Deep clean annually or when stains are visible.

Dry dusting only. Use a soft brush. Paper cannot be wet-cleaned without damage.

Heat from the bulb, sun exposure, and dust accumulation cause yellowing. Switch to LED bulbs that produce less heat.

Household

A clean lampshades makes a bigger difference than you'd think. Here's the most effective method, plus the mistakes most people make.

1
Dust the shade
Use a lint roller or soft brush to remove surface dust. For pleated shades, work a clean paintbrush into each fold.
2
Vacuum with brush attachment
Gently vacuum the shade with the soft brush attachment to remove embedded dust.
3
Spot clean stains
Dampen a cloth with Vibes Multi-Surface Cleaner and gently blot stains. Test in a hidden area first.
4
Deep clean fabric shades
For washable fabric shades, fill a bathtub with warm water and a small amount of detergent. Submerge and swish gently. Rinse and air dry.

TIPA lint roller is the fastest tool for lampshade dusting and works on every material type.
TIPAlways turn off and unplug the lamp and let the bulb cool before cleaning the shade.
TIPDust lampshades monthly to prevent buildup that becomes visible when the lamp is lit.

XSubmerging lampshades with glued-on trims or decorations, which dissolves the adhesive.
XUsing heat from a hair dryer to speed-dry a wet shade, which warps the frame and fabric.
XIgnoring lampshade dust, which is a fire hazard if heavy dust buildup contacts a hot bulb.

Dry methods only. Use a lint roller or soft brush. Never use water on silk -- it stains and warps the fabric.