How to clean a lampshade: If you want to know some tips to clean the lampshades you have at home, read on. Remember that lampshades or screens can be made of very different materials, such as fabric for example.
Other luminaires have a beautiful natural fiber screen, where dust and dirt can accumulate in the cracks … To keep your lamps dust-free, today at lamppoint we shared some tips that can be easily followed.
The first and most logical is not to let the dirt accumulate … try to wipe it with a cloth or a duster every day and practically on a daily basis. This way we will avoid stains at all costs … but if it is too late, find out what material the screen is made of and follow the instructions.
Having an impeccable home is not an easy task. And although it seems that home cleaning does not need a manual, it often happens that, when we have to get rid of the dirt, we ignore or neglect certain places or elements that can accumulate a large amount of dust. The lamps, for example.
Made of glass, metal, paper, marble, plastic, wood, textiles … lamps are often one of the great forgotten in home cleaning. And, if we remember them, we seldom find the right way to give him that ‘refresher’ that he needs. However, keeping this essential element of our home in good condition is feasible, and the correct cleaning will make the lamp look like the first day, word of the experts!
How to choose your lampshade
There are many homes that, in one room, or in several, have a table lamp with a shade that may or may not be adequate.
At Lamppoint we think that knowing the keys to lighting is something positive. But you also have to know the accessories of any lamp and, for that reason, today we want to talk to you about how to choose your lampshade.
Great variety to choose the shade of your lamp
When you ask a person how he chooses the shade of his lamp, the normal thing is that he responds that he has not changed it, that it was the shade that came in the lamp.
But today they can be changed to match the decor of the room. Or even to give it a different touch. You can make it bigger, smaller, colored, with a different shape, etc. And as long as it matches well, there will be no problem.
The keys to knowing how to choose your lampshade are simple and at Lamppoint we want you to know them.
The purpose of a lamp is to illuminate. Therefore, the screen should not be a hindrance when doing so. Therefore, depending on the material and screen size you choose, you will have a greater or lesser intensity of that bulb and that light.
If what you are looking for is a lamp with a lampshade that illuminates little, you will have to use a thick or chubby material so that the light does not come out so intense; If, on the other hand, you prefer a great intensity, you will have to choose fine materials for the screen.
Lamp location
Even if you think that the location of the lamp is not important, the truth is that it is. Let’s give you an example: imagine that you place the lamp in the hall of the house. You want to attract attention and you want them to notice it, especially if you turn it on because you open the door at night.
Now imagine that you place the lamp in the living room, next to the window, and it is open. If you have a lamp with a difficult-to-clean shade, it won’t do you any good to be next to a window because it will pick up dust and dirt.
Therefore, depending on where the lamp is, you will have to choose one type of material or another.
The same can happen if you place the lamp in a children’s bedroom, a youth one or an adult one. The screens can be changed and combined better with the tastes of each person.
Screen size
In the market you can find standard diameters, from 14 to 20; from 21 to 30; from 21 to 50 centimeters. However, this does not mean that they do not make them bigger, only that they will be personalized and will cost a little more.
Regarding the choice of the size of the screen, it should go according to the type of lamp you have as well as the importance of that object in the room (if you want it to be the main object, you will have to make it noticeable).
Display style
As we have commented before, the screens can be of many forms. We do not always have to go to the traditional one because we find other designs that will like more (or less). So, you have:
- Conical shape. It is the classic form of screens and the one most used in homes. The part of the base is wider than the upper part and is used in traditional and contemporary styles.
- Cube shape. The cube shape is a square shape. Now, despite being square, the diameter of the base with respect to the upper one usually differs a bit, a way to better focus the light from the lamp.
- Pyramidal shape. This shape can be different from the others because it is shaped like a prism. It is very exotic and elegant and it is suitable for all environments, in addition to being very striking. If you also use a soft material, it will make it the center of attention in a room.
- Tube shape. For modern environments, the tube shape is perhaps one of the most used. In this case, it is the only shade that lets the light pass in the same way both at the base and at the top (and that will make the room more light).
Screen material
Since we started talking to you about the screen, we have been referring to the material on it. And there are many types of materials that will make you have different lighting in each case.
The most common materials are usually:
Cotton: which can be smooth, be one color, be embroidered, have patterns, etc.
Linen: used in single-color screens and is a material that lets light through with greater intensity.
Metal: it is used by leaving holes through which the light can come out. It is a way of lighting by making the light create shadows on the wall.
Parchment: or paper. They are for more intimate or romantic environments.
Plastic: especially for children’s areas, kitchens, bathrooms, etc. that can easily break if you are not careful.
The size of the lamp base
In this case, the size of the base is important because if it is larger than the screen it can look quite ugly.
To give you an idea, the standard measurement of the base in a floor lamp is usually from 125cm in height. On the other hand, for a table lamp it is about 15cm high.
Bulb type
Finally, we talk about the light bulb as it is also important. You should know that the bulbs that you can use in the lamps are diverse and it will depend on whether you want them to be seen or not, if you want to use large or small bulbs, that you will end up choosing a thick or thin material shade.
Be that as it may, the shade does not have to be the one that comes standard in the lamps, you can always change it and at lamppoint we have given you the keys to do it with the best possible result. Anyway, if you have questions, get in touch with us.
Things to know before clean a lampshade
Never handle the connected lamp
For the lamps to perfectly illuminate a room we must make sure that they are totally clean, so that they do not impede the passage of light. Before cleaning it is important to take into account that the lamps are not on and, if possible, disconnect them from the electrical network , warns Nora Antonia Salvo, responsible for kitchens, bathrooms and, until a month ago, lighting at IKEA. Also, it should not be plugged in again until the lamp is completely dry .
Use the right tool
Whether for table, ceiling or wall, when choosing a lamp we can also find a wide range of designs made of various materials, so when cleaning them it will be necessary to use the appropriate utensil. The specialist advises, for example, to use a duster for lamps made with natural elements such as bamboo or paper , a brush for fabric shades , a damp cloth for metallic ones , and a dry cloth for glass . And if a cleaning product is used, it is necessary to ensure that it is a mild solution, that does not affect the material of the lamp.
For lamps made with natural elements such as bamboo or paper, it is best to use a feather duster.
To get rid of dirt we need relatively basic products and utensils , such as water, ammonia (in a small quantity and diluted with water), neutral detergent that is not aggressive , stain removers, degreasers, a feather duster, a soft microfiber cloth and, in some cases cases, a vaporizer, says Carlos Cabra Vázquez, from La Casa de la Lamp, an online store specializing in designer lamps.
In other cases such as lampshades or lampshades finished in leather or leather , moisturizing agents can be used to nourish and give elasticity. You should always use specific creams for this type of material, adds Cabra Vázquez. “It is good to read well the characteristics of the products to be used and, if in doubt, test on a single part of the surface of the lamp or shade and not apply to the rest until you see the results,” he recommends.
Light bulbs and location count
For proper maintenance, it is recommended to clean the lamps once a month , although it will also depend on the type of luminaire and its location, whether indoors or outdoors. In addition, some other precautions must be taken into account. For the cleaning of ceiling or pendant lamps , it must be placed under plastics , to protect the other surfaces from falling liquids. For kitchen luminaires , degreaser should be used , as grease tends to adhere to the lamp as well.
On the other hand, the bulbs also accumulate dust and this reduces their brightness. Specialists also advise giving them a cleaning from time to time, which must be carried out with a previously moistened cloth. First of all there is to unscrew them , let’s not forget this step!
How to clean a lampshade right way
Lamps, in addition to being an essential element in any home, are often part of the decoration, so it is normal to have them in different shapes and different types of materials on the lampshade or lampshade (fabric, plastic, glass …). At Lampoint we are point out the importance of adapting the cleaning of each screen according to the type of material and provide this guide.
- Cloth
You can use the vacuum cleaner and run it over the screen very carefully to remove accumulated dust. In the case of stains, you can use a dry cleaning foam. It is advisable to apply dry cleaning products with a white brush and rub gently, and do not use water or liquids.
- Of parchment
Parchment lamps are quite delicate. The best way to keep them looking new is to clean them regularly. Passing a simple duster is enough to remove the dust. If it is very dirty, use a basin with water and mild soap. Put a sponge in the water and drain very well . Then begin to rub gently across the surface of the lamp. Remember that, after all, it is like paper, and it should not be too wet. Once finished, let it dry well . Avoid touching it with your hands.
- Paper
A soft dry cloth is enough to remove the dust and, in case of rubbing or scratching of dirt, gently treat it with a white eraser . In some cases the paper can be covered with a thin plastic, and in that case you can opt for a damp cloth.
- Leather
To clean the leather of a lampshade or lampshade, use a microfiber cloth , water and a specific cleaning product with leather detergent . First, moisten the cloth with water and gently wipe the screen in a rotary or circular motion. If the leather has stains, it will be necessary to add a specific neutral detergent to the water for a more thorough cleaning. Once finished, let it dry well . Leather, being skin, needs to be hydrated and conditioned, so you can use a special cream to hydrate it and prevent it from drying out. That will give it elasticity and shine. Ideally, leather screens should be cleaned and hydrated twice a year .
- Plastic
Plastic screens can be cleaned with a damp cloth and then dried with a lint-free cloth .
- Metal
Simply with a cloth, or using a duster, we can remove the dust. If it has any stains, you can use a cloth with glass cleaner and rub until shiny.
- Silk
You can use a soft brush to remove dirt. These types of screens are very delicate and it is advisable to use a professional cleaning to remove stains.
- Wicker
Ideally, use a vacuum cleaner to remove as much of the dust that accumulates between the gaps. If it has any surface stains, you can clean it with a damp cloth .
Useful tips for cleaning your lampshade
Crystal lamps
The best way to clean crystal lamps is to mix equal parts water and ammonia in a spray container . Then place a plastic on the floor under the lamp, because when you add the liquid it will start to drip. If the lamp has shades, they should also be protected with plastic before starting. Then start spraying the lamp (be careful with the bulbs and electrical areas, you have to avoid getting water on them). Do the cleaning from top to bottom . Let the liquid act, which will gradually drip onto the plastic on the floor. Once it has stopped dripping and is dry, you can remove the plastic.
Chandelier
To clean the chandeliers, mix ammonia, soap and a little alcohol . Pour into a spray container and shake well. Before starting to apply the mixture, protect the floor under the lamp with a plastic because the liquid will fall and it is a risk, also for the nearby furniture. Once the entire protected area is in place, start spraying the lamp, taking care not to get liquid on the electrical components and the bulb. Finally let it dry.
Stainless steel lamp
As for the crystal lamp, water and ammonia must be mixed in a sprayer. Shake well and start spraying the lamp, avoiding that it reaches the bulb and the electrical elements directly . Leave on for 2 or 3 minutes. Then wipe the entire lamp with a soft, clean cloth . Before turning on the light, wait until it is dry. In the event that the lamp has grease stains, you can try using degreaser.
Kitchen lamp
You can use a mixture of ammonia and water in a spray bottle or apply it directly with a damp cloth. To remove grease you can also use specific products that are not abrasive. Spray the entire lamp from top to bottom and let the products act for a few minutes. Then use a dry cloth to dry it… and voila!
Ceiling lights
The first thing you should do is remove the ceiling, a generally simple process by manipulating a nut or the hooks. You can then use a damp cloth to clean it inside and out. Depending on the material, different products can be used, from a simple damp cloth, to soapy water or glass cleaner . If the ceiling is in the kitchen, it may have accumulated grease. In this case, a non-abrasive degreaser will work perfectly. Once it is clean and dry, it will have to be replaced.
How to clean a fabric lampshade
The fabric shades, in addition to being functional for the optimal management of light and heat, are elegant decoration accessories, which give lamps and the environment that illuminates them, an incomparable charm. When they are stained, it is necessary to pay the utmost attention to cleaning because they are delicate accessories that require special care. To remove stains from your fabric screens, here are some natural remedies that will allow you to make them shiny and pristine without causing any damage.
Always remember that before applying one of the recommended methods, you should unplug the lamp plug and remove the dust from the lampshade with a brush or vacuum cleaner.
Water and lemon to clean the fabric screen
- Make a solution of warm water, a tablespoon of salt, and a teaspoon of lemon juice and use it to moisten a sponge or cloth.
- At this point they begin to paint the spots on the lampshade, concentrating on the yellowish ones. The spray action will allow you to not leave streaks or halos on the surface.
- Let it dry for a couple of hours and repeat the operation.
- Let it pass overnight and the next day, always with a damp cloth, but only with water, rub the fabric.
- Baking soda to clean the lampshade
- An excellent ally for encrusted dirt and removing odors caused by smoke.
- Pour three tablespoons of baking soda into a glass of water and stir until smooth.
- Apply the mixture only to the surface of the stains to be removed and let it work overnight.
- Then use a small brush to remove the dried baking soda residue by rubbing it with water.
- And voilà, your spots will have disappeared into thin air.
- Apple cider vinegar another way to clean fabric screens
- Thanks to its natural bleaching action , vinegar will allow you to remove the most difficult stains. Just dip a cotton ball in it , wipe it over the smudges on the screen, and wait a couple of hours. Finally, rinse with a cloth soaked in water.