Everyone has lamps in their houses and each one has a light shade. While most lamps have a beauty aspect, if they are dusty and dirty it detracts quite a lot.
The consistent build up of dust on lampshades can even cause permanent damage and will devalue the lamp. It doesn't have to be that way. You can take some easy measures to maintain your light shades, lamps, and lamp fitters. This way your lampshades will last a long time for you. Of course, looks is not the only reason to clean them. If layer upon layer of dust is allowed to accumulate, the amount of light coming from your lamps will be greatly reduced. This will cause rooms to seem darker and can actually cost you more money in the long run, because more lamps need to be on to produce the same amount of light.
Lampshades are made of many different types of materials and each may need to be cleaned in a different way. The most common shade is made from a fabric stretched over a frame and a fitter. Fabrics give the best range of colors and patterns to match any home decor. Replacement light shades are often used to match a new carpet or drapery. The first aspect of cleaning a fabric shade is safety. You must unplug the light the remove the shade. Safety should be first for any type lamp shade, sot his step really applies to all types. You can try a new paint brush on the fabric to see how much dust you can get off. With a few strokes, you may be able to clean a fabric shade quite well. Don't forget to clean the inside as well. If the paint brush doesn't work as well as you want, you can try warm, soapy water. Be sure to rinse well in clear water and let fully dry.
If your shade is made from paper, you really can't clean it very well, except to use the paint brush and maybe some very light vacuuming. If dusting it clean this way does not work, consider a replacement light shade for the lamp.
Glass light shades are some of the prettiest and some of the easiest to clean. As with all the other types, you can start by dusting them off with the soft brush to determine how dirty the shade really is. Soap and water works great , as needed, for glass shades, just be very careful not to break it. Rinse in warm, clear water and use a soft cloth to dry.
Finally, always be sure to allow each shade to dry completely before re-installing on the lamp fitter.
An antler chandelier can become the prized centerpiece of rustic décor in a living or dining area. These unique lighting fixtures add a note whimsical, natural beauty to any room. Western, country and wilderness decorating schemes are ideal for the central placement of an intricate interweaving of antlers accented with warm light. Sometimes, though, a more surprising application may include contemporary or modern designs. In those cases, the contrast between natural and synthetic materials can be quite striking. Whatever the application, the beauty of antlers is worthy of taking center stage in the room.
A casual living area can be a great place to use a deer or elk antler chandelier. It will provide a focal point for the room while casting a warm glowing light. Because the antler constructions can be quite large, it is important to be sure they do not overpower the room. Often it is best to use them in rooms with very high ceilings. To increase the amount of available light, the chandelier can be combined with floor lamps or table lamps. This will make a cozy feeling for guests and family. Matching lampshades with western designs or solid colors can increase the feeling of a unified theme.
In a dining area, the intertwined antlers will hang nicely over the center of a large table. This will add special wilderness flair, even during formal dinners. This effect is especially attractive when combined with rich wood paneling and furniture. This type of usage is often referred to as ranch-style dining décor. This new style is quite popular in vacation homes and country retreats. Sometimes, however, a sleek, modern dining area may be accented with this particular lighting design. The creation of contrast draws interest and provides a conversation piece for diners.
Dining areas and living rooms are not the only place for these creative fixtures. Many people enjoy them in entryways, dens, and family rooms. Wherever they are placed, they capture the imagination and make a statement. That is the greatest value they provide. When a striking statement is called for, use an antler chandelier to make any room come alive.
Many people have asked about cleaning silk lamp shades. Actually, silk light shades, (or lamp shades), don't really need to be cleaned that often, but you can clean them at home without too much trouble. You can use a bath with warm water. I think you may be surprised to know that silk shades are not that delicate. You just have to be careful. The video below will help you see exactly how to do this.
