How to Clean a KUMO Lampshade Without Scratching It

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The KUMO lampshade has a beautifully textured surface, and that's exactly what likes to collect dust. Cleaning it, though, isn't rocket science. You just need to know what to use and what to avoid so you don't scratch the plastic.

Not much is needed for dust

Wipe off regular dust with a soft dry cloth, ideally microfiber. Go lightly along the direction of the grooves, not across them. For more textured spots the cloth can't reach, a soft brush or spray compressed air works great. It blows the dust out of the relief without any contact at all.

For smudges and fingerprints

If greasy fingerprints are left on the lampshade, dampen the cloth slightly with lukewarm water. Just a tiny bit of moisture is enough, not a soaking wet cloth. After wiping, let the surface dry, or go over it with the dry side.

If water alone isn't enough, add a drop of mild dish soap diluted in water. Apply it to the cloth, not directly onto the lamp, and wipe gently.

What to avoid

Rough sponges, steel wool, and abrasive pastes will permanently scratch the surface. Likewise avoid aggressive cleaners, thinners, and acetone based products, which can etch the plastic and make it turn dull.

Also don't clean the lampshade while the lamp is switched on and warm. Turn it off, let it cool down, and only then wipe it.

How often

It depends on the room. In a regular living room, going over the lampshade with a cloth once every few weeks is enough. Where there's cooking or more dust, feel free to do it more often. Regular gentle wiping is better than occasional scrubbing, because grease that holds onto dust doesn't get a chance to build up.

TLDR

  • Wipe off dust with a soft dry microfiber cloth in the direction of the grooves.
  • Use a soft brush or compressed air for the relief.
  • For smudges, a slightly dampened cloth, or a drop of dish soap on the cloth, not on the lamp.
  • Never rough sponges, thinners, or acetone, they scratch and etch the plastic.
  • Always clean a switched off, cooled down lamp, preferably often and gently.
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