How to Choose The Best Bedside Light!

Do you like to read before bed?

Is your existing lighting not focused or bright enough to see the pages?

Would you like to be able to change your position and have your lighting change with you?

Choosing good bedside lighting is a lot more complex than some people realize! You can buy any old bedside light and throw it on your nightstand, but you may discover that it’s not bright enough, that the light shines in your eyes and not on the page, or that it’s too tall to reach comfortably from your bed. There are a few fundamentals to keep in mind that will ensure your bedside light is perfect for your reading needs.

Size of the light

Think about how you sit or lie in your bed. You don’t want to have to stretch to reach the switch for your lamp, especially since you’ll be reaching for it every night! If your bedside light is too tall, the light will be hitting your eyes, and could strain your eyes. If it’s too short, the light won’t be where you need it.

The exact positioning and size of your lamp will depend on the layout of your bedroom, but here are some good rules of thumb. A light switch should be about 21 to 30 inches off the floor, and about an arm’s length away from the bed. Your lamp should be no bigger than ⅓ the size of the table you put it on to prevent it from being unstable. Our Gooseneck lights are perfect here because of way they mount, clipping to your night stand and preventing your light from falling over!

Color of light

Bedside light with base.

Some people complain about the glaring, piercing quality of white light, which can be helpful for detail work but can be irritating right before bed. You may find that a soft red or pink light provides the light and mood you’re looking for. On the other hand, the bright quality of white light may be perfect for rooting around in a bedside drawer or bin. Take some time to think about the kinds of light you may want, or contact us to ask about your options!

Design of your light

Don’t forget about the rest of your room when picking out your bedside light! If you have a large bed, a very small lamp may look out of place next to it. Before making a purchase, be sure to think about cost, utility, and design.

Littlite bedside lights make the perfect addition to any bedroom. With a long, adjustable gooseneck, dimmer controls, and LED or halogen lights in red or white light, you’re sure to find what you need. Browse our store or custom build a light to your exact specifications!