Reading Light for Bed

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Good lighting creates a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere in your favorite reading spot. Soft lights at the right height are not only crucial for optimal reading, but they are also essential for reducing eye strain as you settle each evening. From integrated headboard-mounted reading lights to 360° adjustable options, there are many options in a range of budgets, ensuring you find exactly what you need.

Vanessa Weber Interior Design Expert

Vanessa is a New York-based designer specializing in architectural lighting. Whether you are planning an event, want to illuminate your backyard retreat or simply need advice on what lamp to purchase for your bedroom, Vanessa will be more than happy to share her knowledge and expertise.

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Updated 28/03/2023

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Reading Light for Bed

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The use of bedside wall reading lights is a beneficial addition to bedrooms that lack the space for more than one bedside table. Instead of sacrificing lighting, use of these reading lights allows for the ability to brighten up bedrooms while simultaneously adding charm and sophistication. For those who need lighting on both sides of their bed and are looking for options that don’t take up a considerable amount of wall space, many decorative options are available.

How to style with bedside wall reading lights?

In addition to adding the perfect amount of light to the bedside, you're also developing the room's style by hanging these bedside wall reading lights. Of the most popular styles, you'll find the following examples:

French-style swing arm lamps: these classic wall-mounted lamps featuring warm shades bring cozy style to rooms featuring vintage or transitionally styled rooms.

Modern-flexible reading light: the metal finish mixes well with modern and contemporary bedroom decor. It's LED light provides the perfect lighting for reading or close-up work.
Industrial: use of a scissor lamp with articulating adjustable base adds an industrial flair to spaces featuring such characteristics.
Two-in-one wall lamps: these wall lamps feature a sconce in addition to a flexible contemporary reading lamp below. They’re optimal for those who would like two lighting options—one for the room and one for close-up reading or work.

What are bedside reading lights typically made of?

The most common materials you’ll find regarding bedside reading lights are dependent upon the style of the lamp. For example, if you select a contemporary bedside wall light, they’ll typically be made from metal. The shades are where you’ll find the most variety when it comes to these reading lights. While this also depends on their style, under most circumstances, you’ll see them made from glass, fabric, or metal.

How to maintain bedside reading lights?

Here are some maintenance tips for different reading light materials:

Glass: maintaining glass shades requires regular dusting. Otherwise, they’ll begin looking grimy quickly as the lightbulb heats the surface. If grime does appear, clean the shade with a solution of warm water mixed with a mild detergent using a soft cloth.
Fabric: wipe down its surface carefully regularly with a soft cloth. If spots appear, gently rub them out using mild detergent and a soft cloth.
Metal: don’t use a spray cleaner on its surface. Instead, keep it dust-free and spot clean the shade with warm water.

What are the benefits of dimmer controls?

For those who are hard-wiring their bedside reading lights directly into the walls, consider the addition of dimmer switches. It isn't uncommon for the lighting in bedrooms to either be too harsh or too dark. Therefore, dimmer switches allow for optimal lighting control. That way, the task lighting at your bedside will always be set at a comfortable brightness. The addition of the dimmer switch also prevents the room from becoming too jarring when the lights go on after you’ve been asleep. The most significant challenge regarding these switches is selecting which kind of light bulb to use. The recommendation is to follow the instructions that come with the bedside reading lights or with the dimmer switch.