This Is the Easiest Way to Clean Dusty Lampshades—and It Requires Just One Tool

When it comes to cleaning lampshades, a delicate touch is necessary. Dust tends to accumulate in the folds and across the surface of a lampshade, and the last thing you want to do is smear it, smudge it, or create visible, lasting streaks.

However, there is no one-size-fits-all method of dusting your lampshades. Because they are so varied in shape, design, color, and material, lampshades require various approaches to cleaning. That said, there is one cleaning method that is preferred over all the rest. 

We consulted cleaning experts for their go-to ways to remove dust from lampshades, and one technique was the clear favorite. Read on to discover the most effective way to remove dust from your lampshades, as well as other tried-and-true methods.

The Best Way to Remove Dust from Your Lampshades

According to our experts, using a lint roller on your lampshades is the best method for removing dust. "The lint roller method is gentle, quick, and best for fabric, paper, or pleated lampshades," says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean. Follow Sokolowski’s simple steps for a dust-free lampshade.

1. Unplug the lamp and remove the shade.
2. Set the shade on a clean, well-lit surface.
3. Roll the shade with a lint roller from top to bottom in sections, applying light, even pressure.
4. Swap to a fresh sticky sheet as soon as it looks full to avoid redepositing dust.
5. Detail the edges and seams of the lampshade, using short strokes around the top and bottom rims, as well as any pleats.
6. Lightly dust the interior of the shade with the roller as well.
7. Finish with a dry microfiber cloth to pick up any lingering dust.
8. Reassemble the lamp and plug it back in.

Don't Miss

How to Prevent Dust Before It Forms, According to Cleaning Experts

How to Clean Dust Off Candles So They Always Look and Smell Great

Alternative Methods for Removing Dust From Your Lampshades

Even without a lint roller, there are a number of other options for cleaning your lampshades. Our experts detail them ahead.

Vacuum With a Brush Attachment

One of cleaning expert Scott Schrader's prized methods for removing dust from lampshades is using a microfiber cloth and vacuum with the brush attachment on low suction.

1. Unplug the lamp and remove the shade.
2. Attach the soft brush tool to your vacuum, then use the brush vacuum attachment on low suction, starting at the top and working your way down the shade.
3. Wipe off any remaining dust with a microfiber cloth, and then reattach the shade.

Water and Soap

As long as the care instructions permit it, Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, offers this alternative to cleaning fabric shades. 

1. Unplug and remove the shade from the lamp.
2. Immerse the fabric lampshade in cool, soapy water for 5 to 10 minutes. (If you're unsure if you can get the lamp shade wet, clean a small, inconspicuous area with the mixture to ensure no adverse reactions.)
3. Gently rub the lampshade with a microfiber cloth while in the soapy water.
4. Rinse clean and air dry.
5. Reattach the shade.

Dry Microfiber Cloth

Sokolowski notes that a dry microfiber cloth is sometimes all it takes to clean delicate shades or remove light surface dust. 

1. Unplug and remove the shade from the lamp.
2. Wipe the entire surface of the shade with a microfiber cloth, using light pressure.
3. Shake the cloth outside if needed and then repeat until the shade is clean.
4. Reattach the shade.

Compressed Air

According to Schrader, compressed air is a suitable method for removing dust from pleated or intricate shades.

1. Unplug and remove the shade from the lamp.
2. Use short bursts of compressed air to remove dust from the creases of your shade.
3. Lightly wipe the shade with a clean microfiber cloth. 
4. Reattach the shade.

Hair Dryer

For delicate shades, like those made of silk or paper, Sokolowski recommends using a hair dryer on the cool setting.

1. Unplug the lamp and place the shade in an open area.
2. Set the hair dryer to cool and low speed.
3. Blow air evenly across the shade, rotating as needed.
4. Repeat until the dust is gone.
5. Wipe the shade with a clean, microfiber cloth.

Tips for Preventing Dust From Forming on Lampshades

These tips will reduce how frequently your lampshades require cleaning and keep them in peak condition for longer.

• Dust weekly: Dust your lampshades weekly with a microfiber cloth to prevent heavy buildup, says Sokolowski. "Regular, gentle cleaning will not only keep lampshades free of dust, but increase a lamp's life by preventing you from having to conduct deep and abrasive cleaning," adds Schrader.
• Clean nearby furniture: Schrader also recommends dusting all nearby furniture regularly to minimize dust buildup in the air, keeping it off your lampshades.
• Keep lamps away from vents: Avoid placing lamps in front of vents and open windows to minimize dust accumulation, says Mock. Also, Sokolowski notes that you should keep your air filters clean to minimize airborne dust.
• Use an air purifier: Sokolowski recommends using an air purifier in your high-dust rooms to trap particles before they land on your lampshades.