Even Arianna Huffington reads in bed. Today, we’re zeroing in on a crucial bedroom detail with a lot of options: bedside lamps.
Why have bedside lighting?
Recently we wrote about the importance of being able to achieve total darkness in the bedroom (insomniacs, that post is for you). Dark bedrooms are great for sleeping, but too little light hinders other activities, such as reading, dressing, and getting ready for bed. Since no single fixture can effectively serve all bedroom lighting needs–it would be a blinding light– what’s needed is a combination: controlled task lighting and gentle ambient light. This use of multiple sources is known as light layering.
What’s the best height for bedside lamps?
Bedside lights have a specific task: to illuminate the pages of your book (or book-like device) without requiring you to contort–and without bothering your bedmate. To prevent shadows, the bottom of the lampshade should be positioned between your head and the page. Factors to consider are the height of the bed, the height of the bedside table, and the position of the reader: You don’t want the lights so high that they create glare; on the other hand, you want to be comfortable.
Randall Whitehead, author of Residential Lighting: A Practical Guide, advises that “the best way to find the correct height is to get into bed and hunker down against the pillows in your normal reading position. Then measure from the floor to just above your shoulder height.” The base of the shade should be at that height.
What are the most popular types of bedside lighting?
The most common options are table lamps, wall-mounted lights, pendants, and adjustable task lamps. They’re typically placed on either side of the bed and are usually matching. (Note that lighting experts say to avoid installing ceiling down lights directly over beds–soft light at face level is more effective and saves you from staring up at a bulb.) Here’s what to know about each of the recommended lighting types.
1. Table Lamps
From a decorative standpoint, table lamps offer the widest range of options. A general rule of thumb when selecting bedside table lamps: the bottom of the lampshade should be about 20 inches above the mattress.
2. Wall-Mounted Lamps
Wall-mounted fixtures free up bedside table space–or eliminate the need for bedside tables altogether. Many wall-mounted designs are moveable, making them a choice with built-in flexibility.
Tip: Swing-arm, wall-mounted lights that move both horizontally and vertically offer a solution for people who share a bed but rest at different heights. The lamps can be mounted at matching heights and adjusted for the different reading positions.
3. Pendant Lights
Pendant lights become bedside illumination when hung at table-lamp height. Avoid spotlights that will only point light to objects directly below. Instead choose pendants that provide diffuse light whether via a wide shade, opaque shade, or no shade at all.
4. Task Lamps
The adjustability of task lamps has fostered their migration from lab and office to bedside table. Choose task lights with a well-shielded bulb, so you can read without bothering your bedmate.
5. Floor Lamps
Another option we’ve been noting lately: floor lamps as statement-making bedside reading lamps.
Tips for bedside lighting selection and placement:
- Consider furniture and electrical power outlet placement when planning your bedside lighting. It may be worth adding outlets or hardwired fixtures.
- Pay attention to how the lamp turns on and off to ensure it’s easy to operate when you’re in bed.
- Opaque shades are a good choice for reading lamps because they cut glare.
- Each bedside lamp should operate on its own on/off switch.
- If the fixtures are hardwired, consider wiring them to two switches, one accessible from your bed and the other near the bedroom door.
- Switches can be placed close to the middle of the headboard, enabling you to easily turn off a snoozing partner’s reading light.
- Avoid use of CFL bulbs that emit blue light, which has been shown to suppress sleep-inducing melatonin production. Consider using low-wattage incandescent lamps at your bedside (and turn off overhead lights as you get ready for bed). For reading, 40- to 60-watt bulbs are best.
Looking for lighting in other rooms? Read our Remodeling 101 primers:
- How to Install Flattering Lighting in the Bathroom
- Lighting Your Home Office
- Remodeling 101: Smart Light Bulbs
Frequently asked questions
What are the different bedside lighting options?
There are several bedside lighting options to consider:
Table Lamps: Table lamps are a popular choice for bedside lighting. They come in various sizes, styles, and designs, allowing you to find one that suits your aesthetic preferences and provides adequate light for reading or other activities.
Wall Sconces: Wall sconces are mounted on the wall beside the bed, saving valuable bedside table space. They can provide focused task lighting or ambient lighting, depending on the design and placement.
Pendant Lights: Pendant lights can be installed above the bedside tables, creating a stylish and modern lighting solution. They come in various shapes and sizes, and adjustable models allow you to customize the height and angle of the light.
Swing-Arm Lamps: Swing-arm lamps are wall-mounted lamps with an adjustable arm that can be extended or moved to direct light where needed. They are a functional option for bedside reading.
Floor Lamps: Floor lamps placed next to the bed can provide soft ambient lighting. They come in various styles, including arc lamps or tripod lamps, and can be easily moved or adjusted to suit your needs.
How do I choose the right bedside lighting option?
When choosing bedside lighting, consider the following factors:
Purpose: Determine whether you need focused task lighting for reading or activities, ambient lighting for a cozy atmosphere, or a combination of both.
Space: Assess the available space on your bedside table, wall, or floor to determine the appropriate size and style of lighting fixture.
Style: Choose a lighting option that complements the overall aesthetic of your bedroom and matches your personal style.
Functionality: Consider the adjustability and control options of the lighting fixture, such as dimmers or switches, to suit your preferences.
How should I position bedside lighting?
The positioning of bedside lighting depends on the type of lighting fixture:
Table Lamps: Place table lamps symmetrically on each side of the bed, ensuring the bottom of the lampshade is around eye level when you are sitting or lying in bed.
Wall Sconces: Install wall sconces at a height that provides comfortable reading light without causing glare. Position them on either side of the bed, approximately at head level when sitting or lying down.
Pendant Lights: If using pendant lights, hang them above each bedside table at a height that allows for easy reach and prevents the light from being directly in your line of sight when lying down.
Swing-Arm Lamps: Mount swing-arm lamps on the wall above the bedside tables, adjusting them to your preferred height and angle for optimal reading light.
Floor Lamps: Place floor lamps near the bedside table, ensuring they are tall enough to provide sufficient light without obstructing movement around the bed.
Should I consider the type of bulb for bedside lighting?
Yes, the type of bulb you choose for your bedside lighting can impact the quality and ambiance of the light. Consider using warm white or soft white LED bulbs, which emit a cozy and inviting light. Also, opt for bulbs with adjustable brightness or use dimmers to create a relaxing atmosphere when needed.
Can I mix and match bedside lighting options?
Absolutely! Mixing and matching bedside lighting options can add visual interest and functionality to your bedroom. For example, you can combine table lamps with wall sconces or use a combination of table lamps and pendant lights. Just ensure the different lighting fixtures complement each other in terms of style and provide adequate light for your needs.
Are there any safety considerations for bedside lighting?
Safety is important when choosing and positioning bedside lighting. Here are a few considerations:
Ensure that the electrical wiring and installation comply with safety standards.
Use appropriate bulbs with the correct wattage recommended by the manufacturer to prevent overheating.
Position cords and plugs away from the bed and walkways to avoid tripping hazards.
If using wall-mounted lighting fixtures, make sure they are securely anchored to the wall to prevent accidents.
Can I install bedside lighting without hardwiring?
Yes, there are options for bedside lighting that do not require hardwiring. For example, you can choose table lamps or floor lamps that plug into a nearby outlet. Additionally, there are battery-powered or rechargeable options available for wall-mounted sconces or portable lighting solutions.
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