How to Clean a Lampshade

I always hate using the vacuum hose to dust the lampshades. I found this tip about using a lint roller instead. It works well, but you use about 2 sheet for each shade.

It you really need to clean a lampshade you can wash it. Read the care instructions first, but here are the directions for washing a lampshade.

Fill a bathtub or large laundry sink with a warm water solution containing liquid dishwashing soap. Dip the shade in and out of the solution, making sure that the shade is completely covered, and then rinse it in lukewarm water, following the same dipping procedure. Rinse until the water is clear. Take the shade outside and swing it vigorously in a circle to get ride of excess moisture, and then dry it quickly in the sun or with an electric fan or hair dryer.

Source: http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/home/how-to-clean-furnishings2.htm

Dusting Rules

1. Always work from the top down, and then vacuum the dust that settles on the floor.

2. Don't just dust the places you can see but the places you can't. Don't forget about the tops of doors, walls, molding, ceiling fans, window treatments, and even light bulbs (when they are off and cool).

3. Move items to dust the entire area.

4. When dusting a flat surface, move the cloth smoothly from one end to the other, stopping at the end . Don't flick the cloth, or dust will resettle on the floor.

5. AVOID DUSTING SPRAYS, or use them sparingly. They contain oily substances that actually attract MORE dust. They also build up over time, and can damage the finish. Use a soft cloth dampened with water. If there is a really sticky mess use a soft cloth but with a solution of water and mild dish washing liquid soap- then follow with the cloth dampened with water. Always finish with a dry soft cloth. (This should save you on all those products you don't really need.)

6. On wood, dust in the direction of the grain.

(Source: Martha Stewart Living)