Bedside lamps are a great way to add style and illumination to your bedroom. They can be small and paired with a nightstand or table, or they can be large and attached to the wall. But no matter the shape or style, there are a few key things to consider when purchasing a lamp for your bedroom.
Scale
The scale of the bedside lamp is essential to its function and to the overall look of your bedroom. If the light is too tall or too short it will throw off the ambiance and cause eyestrain. A good rule of thumb is that the lamp should be a couple of inches shorter than the nightstand, and two or three inches higher than the height of the bed.
Lamps should also be positioned at an appropriate height to allow you to reach the switch, which is usually about the same height as your arm. This will save you from having to get up and risk hurting your back or falling out of bed.
Choosing the Right Color and Design
A great way to start when shopping for your bedroom lamp is to consider the colors and designs that you already have in your bedroom. Think of the fabrics that you have on your bed, the wallpaper, and the furniture and accessories in your room to see what color and style works best for your space.
For instance, if you have a blue-hued room with a lot of white furniture and curtains, it would be a good idea to choose a bedside lamp that features shades in the same hue. This will make the lamp pop against the backdrop and tie in with your bedding.
You can also choose to mix and match your bedside lamps, so that they all compliment each other. It’s okay to have different colored bedside lamps, but keep their height and scale consistent to create a balanced aesthetic.
Another consideration is the color of the bulbs. The bulb should provide a soft, diffused light that isn’t harsh or glaring, and it should be at least 450 lumens. This will give you enough lighting to read or do other tasks without putting too much strain on your eyes.
If you’re looking for a more directional light, a metal-shaded lamp is a great option. These will provide a brighter light for reading but aren’t as soft or comfortable to use when sleeping.
Bedside lamps can be a focal point of any bedroom, so make sure that the lamp you choose is the right size and color. The shade of the lamp should be long enough to extend to the top of your bed, letting the light fall on your face without causing glare or making it hard to breathe.
Using a Fabric or Metal Shade
A fabric shade is a good choice for reading and relaxing, as it will soften the light emitted by the bulb and will not glare. A metal-shaded lamp, on the other hand, will provide a more directional light source and will be more suited to illuminating a task like crocheting.