Bedroom Lighting

Lighting your bedroom can have a huge impact on creating the right atmosphere in your bedroom – and it is crucial for promoting relaxation and restful sleep. The right lighting can help create a restful space that helps you to relax, and the wrong lighting can have the totally opposite effect. In this post, we’ll explore different types of bedroom lighting, and discuss how to choose the best lighting fixtures to create a comfortable, peaceful bedroom environment.

What type of lights are best for a bedroom?

When it comes to lighting a bedroom, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the best types of lights for a bedroom include:

 

• Ceiling lights are generally used in most bedrooms, and they provide overhead illumination, with many styles that can be adjusted to suit your needs. A ceiling light can be a simple flush light, a chandelier, or a pendant light, depending on the style and size of your bedroom, and your taste in interior design.
• Wall lights, such as sconces or swing arm lamps, can be used to provide directional lighting and add visual interest to your bedroom décor. If you’re choosing bedside lighting, especially in rooms where space is tight, wall lights either side of the bed are a great option, providing gentle lighting that is perfect for reading or relaxing.
• Bedside lamps are a classic choice for bedroom lighting, for the soft, warm glow that most of us prefer when we’re heading to bed. A table lamp, a desk lamp or a reading lamp can all be used for bedside lighting.
• Floor lamps can be used to provide ambient lighting, task lighting, or accent lighting in a bedroom, as you prefer. A floor lamp can be placed in a corner, next to a reading chair, or a dressing table, providing the brightness you need, exactly where you need it, with no installation required. 

When selecting lights for your bedroom, consider the style and size of the space, as well as the function and mood you want to create. By using a selection of ceiling lights, wall lights, bedside lamps, and floor lamps, you can create lighting that enhances the comfort and functionality of your bedroom.

How bright should the lights be in a bedroom?

The brightness of lights in a bedroom will depend on what the individual sleeping there prefers. However, as a general guideline, bedroom lighting be dimmable, and adjustable to create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere that promotes restful sleep. That’s why having a few types of lighting is a good idea.

Also, consider the specific lighting needs of the bedroom. For example, task lighting such as a bedside reading lamp may need to be brighter to provide adequate illumination, while ambient lighting such as a ceiling light or floor lamp may be better suited to a lower brightness level, so as not to keep you awake at night.

Should I use warm or cool light in my bedroom?

The choice between warm or cool light for a bedroom will depend on personal preference and the desired atmosphere of the space. Warm light with a yellowish-orange hue is more restful, while cool light with a bluish-white hue can create a more energising and stimulating atmosphere.

Warm light is often preferred for bedrooms as it is more relaxing and can help to promote restful sleep. The yellowish-orange hue of warm light is also less harsh on the eyes, making it more comfortable for reading or other activities in the bedroom. Warm light is a great choice for creating a calming and comforting atmosphere, especially for those who struggle with insomnia or difficulty sleeping.

On the other hand, cool light is better suited for task lighting, such as if you need to study or work in the bedroom. The bluish-white hue of cool light can help to increase alertness and concentration. If you have trouble getting out of bed in the morning, then you might want to think about having smart lighting that you can set to daylight brightness in the mornings, especially during winter months. This will help your body wake up better and get you moving quicker. 

What is the best way to light a closet or wardrobe in a bedroom?

Lighting a closet or wardrobe in a bedroom can be easily achieved using LED strips. LED strips offer a number of benefits for closet lighting. They provide bright, even illumination that can make it easier to see and organise your clothes and accessories. They also use minimal power and are more energy-efficient than traditional lighting options, which can help to lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

To install LED strips, first measure the length of the closet or wardrobe where you want to place them. Cut the LED strips to the appropriate length and use adhesive tape or clips to attach them to the surface. Then, connect the strips to a power source and a controller, if desired, to adjust the brightness and colour temperature.

If LED strips don’t suit, there are plenty of cabinet lights that you might want to consider in our range – take a look here. 

How do I choose the right size of light fixtures for my bedroom?

Choosing the right size of light fixtures for your bedroom is really important to make the room feel balanced. A few tips from our professionals to help you choose the right size of light fixtures for your bedroom:

 

• Make sure you consider the size of the room – this is a primary factor in determining the size of your light fixtures. For a smaller room, smaller fixtures would be appropriate, while larger fixtures could work well in a larger room – or you might want to use multiple smaller fixtures to create a larger effect.
• The height of the ceiling is another important factor to consider when choosing the size of a light fixture. A higher ceiling will require a larger fixture, such as a chandelier, and possibly fitted lower to provide adequate lighting, while a lower ceiling may need a smaller fixture, fitted closer to the ceiling – a flush ceiling light may be betters.
• The purpose of the light fixture will also impact the size of lighting that you choose. If the fixture is meant to provide ambient lighting for the entire room, then a larger fixture may be better. However, if the fixture is meant for task lighting, such as a bedside lamp or desk lamp, you’ll want a smaller piece.
• While size is important, it’s also important to consider the style of the light fixture and how it will fit in with the overall décor of your bedroom. A fixture that is too large or too small can look out of place and detract from the aesthetic that you’re aiming to achieve.

Can lighting affect my sleep patterns?

Yes, lighting can absolutely affect your sleep patterns. Exposure to light, particularly blue light, can interfere with your body’s natural circadian rhythms, which regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Blue light suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate sleep, making it more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.

To promote healthy sleep patterns, limit exposure to blue light in the evening, especially before bed. This can be achieved by dimming the lights in your bedroom and avoiding the use of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers for at least an hour before bed.

You can help your sleep pattern by choosing the right type of lighting for your bedroom. Warm, dim lighting can help to create a calming and relaxing environment that promotes restful sleep. Bright or cool lighting can interfere with your sleep and should be avoided in the evening – so using smart lighting might suit you, if you need brighter lighting to help you wake up in the morning. 

What colour and materials are best for bedroom light fixtures?

The colour and material of the lighting fixtures you choose can play an important role in creating a relaxing and soothing atmosphere.

As we’ve already covered, the best colour lighting are warm and soft tones, such as yellow, orange, and warm white. These colours create a calming and peaceful ambiance, helping to promote relaxation and better sleep. On the other hand, bright and cool tones like blue and white may disrupt sleep patterns and make it harder to fall asleep.

When choosing lighting fixtures for your bedroom, it’s important to consider the materials used. Soft materials such as fabric or frosted glass can help to diffuse the light, creating a soft and warm glow in the room. Natural materials like wood or bamboo can also create a calming and organic feel in the space. You want your lighting to complement your space, rather than to stand out. 

How do I choose light fixtures for the bedroom?

Choosing light fixtures for your bedroom can depend on a few factors, such as your personal style, the size and layout of your bedroom, and the function of the space. Here are some tips to help you choose the right light fixtures for your bedroom:

 

• Think about how you use your bedroom, what activities you will be doing in your bedroom, and what kind of lighting you need for those activities. For example, if you like to read in bed, or work from your dressing table, you may want to add a lamp with a focused, directional beam. If you only use your bedroom for relaxing, you may want to choose a fixture with dimming capabilities.
• The size of your bedroom will affect the type and size of the light fixtures you choose. If you have a smaller bedroom, you may want to opt for smaller fixtures that don’t take up too much space. If you have a larger bedroom, you may want to choose a statement fixture that adds visual interest and fills the ceiling space.
• Your personal style should also guide you in choosing light fixtures that fit with the overall aesthetic of your bedroom. If you prefer a minimalist style, then fixtures with clean lines and a simple design will work better. If you prefer a more ornate or decorative style, fixtures with intricate details and embellishments may suit you.
• Consider where you will be placing the fixtures and how they will affect the overall lighting in the room. For example, if you have a low ceiling, you may want to opt for recessed lighting or flush mount fixtures to save space. If you have a high ceiling, you may want to choose fixtures that hang down to create a focal point.
• Don’t forget how the colour temperature of the light can affect the atmosphere of your bedroom. Generally, warmer colour temperatures (2700K-3000K) are better for relaxation and creating a cosy atmosphere, while cooler colour temperatures (4000K-5000K) are better for task lighting and creating a brighter, more stimulating atmosphere.

What are the best light bulbs for bedroom lighting?

LED bulbs are generally considered the best type of light bulbs for bedroom lighting due to their energy efficiency, longevity, and versatility. Let’s take a look:

 

• LED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, helping to lower your energy bills and to reduce your carbon footprint.
• LED bulbs last significantly longer than traditional bulbs, so you don’t have to replace them as frequently, saving you money – and effort – in the long run.
• LED bulbs are available in a range of colours and colour temperatures, allowing you to choose the right type of lighting. If you like to be able to change the colour temperature, then look for a smart bulb that lets you change it using an app on your phone – then you don’t have to get out of bed to change the colour or the brightness!
• Many LED bulbs are dimmable, which means that you can adjust the brightness of the lighting to suit you.
• LED bulbs usually emit less blue light than traditional bulbs, which can help to promote healthy sleep patterns and reduce the risk of eye strain and headaches.

Should I use a dimmer switch in my bedroom?

A dimmer switch is a great addition to a bedroom as it allows you to set the brightness that you need, whatever time of the day or night it is. A dimmer switch allows you to adjust the brightness of the lights in your bedroom, which can be helpful for activities such as reading, watching TV, or getting ready for bed – and especially in a child’s bedroom.

In addition, dimmer switches can also help to create a more relaxing and soothing atmosphere in your bedroom, which is especially important for promoting healthy sleep patterns. By dimming the lights in the evening, you can create a more calming environment that helps to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

Not all light bulbs are compatible with dimmer switches, so it’s important to check the packaging or consult with a lighting professional to ensure that your bulbs are dimmable. Also, it’s important to choose a dimmer switch that is appropriate for the type and number of lights in your bedroom to ensure that it functions properly and safely. Be certain to get in touch with our team if you’re unsure on this point.

While dimmer switches are a popular option for controlling the brightness of lights in a bedroom, there are alternative options that can be more convenient. One option is smart lighting, which allows you to control the brightness, colour, and scheduling of your lights through a smartphone app or voice command.

Smart lighting systems use LED bulbs with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity to connect to your home network, and communicate with a smartphone or voice assistant. This allows you to control the brightness, colour, and scheduling of your lights from anywhere, at any time. You can also set up customised lighting scenes for different moods and activities, such as reading, watching TV, or getting ready for bed.

How can I incorporate lighting into my bedroom décor?

Incorporating lighting into your bedroom décor is a great way to add style, ambience, and functionality to the space. Here are some tips for incorporating lighting into your bedroom décor

• Layering your lighting can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your bedroom. Having a variety of light sources available, such as a ceiling light, table lamps, and wall sconces, can create a layered and balanced effect.
• Statement lighting, such as a chandelier or pendant light, can enhance your bedroom décor. Choose a statement light fixture that complements the overall style and colour scheme of your bedroom.
• Use lighting to highlight artwork, photographs, or architectural features in your bedroom. This can be achieved through the use of picture lights, spotlights, or up lights, which can help to draw attention to specific elements in the room.
• Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the brightness of your lights to create an adaptable lighting system to suit all times of the day and night. 

Our final thoughts

Choosing the right lighting for your bedroom can make a huge difference in creating a calm and inviting space for rest and relaxation. From warm and soft tones to natural materials, there are many options to consider when selecting lighting fixtures. At Lighting Direct, we offer a wide range of bedroom lighting options to suit any style or preference. Plus, with our Change Your Mind Guarantee, you can shop with confidence, knowing that you can request a return or exchange within 30 days of delivery of your item. So why not browse our selection today and find the perfect lighting to transform your bedroom into a peaceful sanctuary?