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Maintaining the quality of a particular lamp shade cover is essential for increasing the longevity a favorite lamp. Replacement shades are a little pricey when a simple bit of careful and intuitive maintenance can restore it to like-new beauty. The problem is, understanding what will and will not fly in terms of washing techniques to use.

Maintaining the integrity of the sensitive material that makes up the lamp shade (especially if you have a custom replacement shade) is the primary concern of a responsible owner. The goal is to toe the line between an effective cleaning job and being gentle enough that the shade remains entirely intact. The following is a step-by-step procedure for cleaning a lamp shade cover or finial, taking into account the treatment of the fabric and materials that you will commonly have available.

Step 1, Dusting

The first task is to remove the layer of dust to prevent smudging while you clean in earnest. Unscrew the finial (soak and wipe in warm water if you mean to clean that as well), and remove the lamp shade to begin with. Next, use a soft brush (an artist's or similarly small) to gently wipe away the dust. For intricate trimmings and edges, a hair dryer set on cool should be sufficient to blow away dust. Otherwise, a can of pressurized air held at a considerable distance will work like a charm.

Step 2, Small Stains

To clean a smaller stain, use a little bit of water mixed with a mild detergent. Dip a soft cloth in and dab away the stain until it disappears, taking care not to pull at the fibers of the fabric. Another method is to use sanitizing baby wipes, which are designed for sensitivity and cleaning. Just continue to dab at the stain, and used a cloth with water to dab away any detergent or soap residue that may be left behind.

Step 3, Full Clean

For a full lamp shade cleaning, you first must understand the durability of the material the shade is made from. Tougher linens can handle cleaning jobs, but soft silks should be treated with the utmost gentility. Consult the lamp shade manufacturer if you're unsure, and always err the side of caution when cleaning. Replacement lamp shades can be pricey so trust a delicate cleaning to a professional if you're not certain that you can perform it while keeping the shade safe.

If you are confident that the material can handle a full cleaning, the procedure is as follows. Begin with a tub of lukewarm water slightly mixed with a mild detergent (just enough to create bubbles). Submerge the lamp shade, and softly brush the most stained areas. Change the water as necessary. Rinse under gently running water and pat dry with an absorbent towel. Let it dry out on its own before handling it any more. DO NOT perform this cleaning if you know that your lampshade is held by glue, the water will destroy the bond China lamp shade manufacturer.

Once again, always err on the side of caution. If you're not confident that the material can handle a wet washing, DO NOT RISK IT. You could cause permanent damage to a beautiful lamp shade. Always be careful and clean lamp shades as often as warranted to ensure longevity and beauty for years to come.

If cleaning the lampshade is not sufficient stop by Just Shades to get a Replacement Lampshade. They have locations in Greenwich, CT & NYC. Visit their website at http://justshadesny.com

Proper cleaning & maintenance of your lamp shade is important, but when you need to replace your lamp shade, contact Just Shades at one of their locations in NYC or Greenwich or visit their website at http://justshadesny.com