Lighting brings warmth and style to a space, but every fixture and lampshade needs regular care to look—and work—its best. Use these expert tips to preserve the beauty and longevity of your lighting investments, from classic table lamps to Northeast Lantern outdoor fixtures.
Safety First
These general care tips are intended for informational purposes only and do not supersede manufacturer instructions, safety standards, or warranty limitations. For all cleaning, maintenance, or repair work, always consult your product’s specific manual and, if uncertain, contact a qualified professional.
Turn off and unplug a light fixture before handling.
Always test any cleaning product/method in an inconspicuous area before full use.
Newport Lamp & Shade Company is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from use of these tips.
General Care for Fixtures & Lamps
Dusting: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth or feather duster for easy, scratch-free dust removal. This keeps finishes sparkling and prevents grime buildup.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: If you must spot clean, stick to mild soap and water. Never use abrasive pads, ammonia cleaners, or strong chemicals — these can strip finishes and damage decorative details.
Power Off First: Always shut off and unplug lamps before changing bulbs or cleaning, and let them cool. Handle shades and fixture frames with care to avoid chips or warping—especially on intricate pieces. Enlist the help of a qualified professional for anything beyond changing the light bulb.
Protect From Moisture & Sun: Keep lamps and shades away from damp areas and direct sunlight to prevent mildew, fading, and curling or yellowing of fabrics.
Lampshade Care Tips
Paper: Dust with a soft brush; never use water. For stains, try to live with it - or turn the lampshade so the stain faces away from you. If you must attempt stain removal on a paper lampsahde, try a gum eraser, always very gently. Test an inconspicuous area before full use.
Linen or Fabric: Dust with a soft brush, vacuum with a gentle upholstery attachment or use a lint roller. Spot clean stains by blotting—not rubbing—with mild soap and water, and air dry.
Pleated or Gathered Linen Shades
Dust using a clean brush vertically along pleats, or vacuum with a gentle upholstery attachment. For stains, blot carefully with a barely damp cloth and mild soap, and air dry.
Silk Lampshades
Dust silk with a feather duster or ultra-soft brush. Spot clean gently using mild soap and water only for light stains.
Universal Lampshade Tips
Remove shades before cleaning. Always handle by the base for stability, and keep all shades out of harsh sunlight and humidity.
Caring for Wood, Crystal Glass, and Ceramic Table Lamps
Wood Table Lamps
Dust with a lint-free soft cloth. For grime, wipe with a barely damp cloth and dry immediately.Avoid placing near heat or sun which can fade and crack wood.
Crystal Glass Table Lamps
Wipe dust regularly with a lint-free cloth. Buff with distilled water for brilliant shine.
Ceramic Table Lamps
Dust softly; for smudges, use a just-damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasives, extreme heat, and sun which can harm glaze and color. Use caution around the base and vase cap, which are often have a different, more fragile and porous finish.
Specialty Tips for Northeast Lantern Fixtures
Living Finish: Northeast Lantern’s copper and brass fixtures feature a “living finish”—meaning they are uncoated and unlacquered, so the metal oxidizes naturally over time and develops a unique patina. This graceful aging process creates a one-of-a-kind appearance that gains character with exposure to the elements. Factors such as rain, sunlight, wind, salt air, humidity, and even cleaning products can all affect this transformation, making every fixture truly unique to its environment. The living finish is highly valued for its dynamic, evolving look and classic charm.
Glass Pane Care: Wipe with cleaner on a towel, allow to dry thoroughly. Avoid overspray on metal.
Seasonal Maintenance: Trim nearby plants and sweep away cobwebs to deter moisture buildup.
Don’t Overheat: Use proper bulb wattage.
Every lighting detail, from the lamps on your side table to hand-forged outdoor fixtures, makes a design statement that lasts. With these tips, each piece will reward you with bright beauty and reliable function for years to come
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