Fiberglass lampshades add a retro vibe to decoration, but these treasures may become yellow with age. Whether you’re trying to get Mid-century Modern or bachelor-pad kitsch, you don’t want the dust, dirt and nicotine stains of past decades cramping your style. Unlike fabric lampshades, fiberglass shades, which are made of glass filaments embedded in resin, can’t be submerged. Cleaning fiberglass lampshades with nominal water helps remove the yellow without damaging the stuff.
Unplug the lamp and remove the shade.
Dust the lampshade using a feather duster or dry microfiber fabric.
Add 1/4 cup warm water into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Pour 1/4 cup liquid laundry detergent into the water.
Whip the detergent and water using a wire whisk or electric egg beater until the suds appear like meringue or whipped cream. The suds should be quite stiff.
Scoop out a small amount of suds using a clean, dry, white cloth. Don’t get any water on the cloth.
Use the suds into the inside and outside the lampshade, avoiding any glued areas or lacing.
Scrub the suds into the colour with the fabric, working in a circular motion.
Rinse the rag and wring it out thoroughly. It should be slightly damp but not wet.
Wipe the suds from the colour with the damp cloth. Dry the shade instantly with a dry cloth.
