Choosing lamps for every room: how to buy the right indoor lighting

Buying a new lamp seems simple until you discover that the fitting is incompatible, the cable is too short or the light is unsuitable for the room. Decorative lamps in particular tend to be marketed around style, while practical details are often less prominently displayed.

So watch out for these three common pitfalls:

• A lamp without a bulb: several models do not include a bulb. You will therefore need to buy a suitable E27, E14 or G9 bulb yourself.
• The wrong fitting or wattage: a fitting designed for E14 will not work with an E27 bulb. You must also not exceed the maximum wattage.
• An attractive design with an impractical size: a 180 cm floor lamp can dominate a small living room. A 46 cm table lamp may not fit beneath a shelf or on a narrow bedside table.

The right choice depends on the room, the lighting function you want, the dimensions and the technical specifications. Below are the key points to check.

What should you look for when buying lamps?

1. Check the fitting, bulb and wattage

The fitting determines which type of bulb you need. The most common options for indoor lighting are:

• E27: a large, widely used fitting for table lamps, floor lamps and pendant lights.
• E14: a smaller fitting often used in bedside lamps, compact table lamps and decorative light fittings.
• G9: a compact push-fit fitting found in some chandeliers and ceiling lights.

Also check whether the bulb is included. The Atmosphera Keli floor lamp, the Aigostar wooden lamp and the Aigostar table lamp are supplied without a bulb. The E27 fitting on the Keli floor lamp is suitable for a maximum of 60 W. The Aigostar table lamp with an E14 fitting has a maximum of 40 W.

Would you like to use dimmable bulbs? Both the bulb and the lamp, or external dimmer, must be compatible with dimming. According to the product information, the Moki floor lamp is dimmable with an external dimmer, which is not included. The Atmosphera Keli table lamp is listed as non-dimmable.

2. Choose the light according to its function

Not every lamp is designed to illuminate an entire room brightly. Distinguish between:

• General lighting: for example, ceiling lights or an uplighter that spreads light upwards.
• Task lighting: a reading lamp next to the sofa, a desk lamp or an adjustable arm.
• Ambient lighting: table lamps, gold lamps and lamps with fabric or paper shades.
• Targeted bedroom lighting: compact bedside lamps with a switch within easy reach.

A floor lamp with a reading arm can combine two functions. The Brilliant Spari has an uplighter and a separately adjustable reading arm. This allows you to use indirect light in the living room and direct the arm towards a book or work area. This model has an E27 fitting up to 60 W and an E14 fitting up to 40 W.

3. Measure the lamp, cable and available space

Measure not only the area where the lamp will stand, but also the available height and walking space. Pay attention to:

• Height: a 150 cm floor lamp fits beside many sofas; a 180 cm model requires more vertical space.
• Base or diameter: a lamp with a wide base can be awkward in a narrow corner.
• Cable length: check where the socket is located and avoid trailing cables across walkways.
• Stability: place standing lamps on a level surface and position cables so they do not create a trip hazard.

A lamp with an IP20 rating is intended for dry indoor spaces. Do not use this type of indoor lighting in a damp environment, and always follow the product’s safety information.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Aigostar Wood Table Lamp Floor Lamp E27 White Lampshade Brown Base

Why it suits this profile: The combination of a wooden base and white shade works well with a range of interior styles. The lamp is suitable for the living room, bedroom or study.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that the E27 bulb is not included and that a maximum of 60 W may be used. This means you can order a suitable bulb at the same time.

Key benefit & advantages

E27 fitting, dimensions of 24 x 42 cm and a 1.5-metre cable. The wooden base adds a natural accent.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

Brilliant Decorative Uplighter - Floor Lamp With Adjustable Reading Arm 1.8 M High

Why it suits this profile: This model combines indirect lighting with a separate reading arm. It is practical for anyone who wants to use one lamp beside the sofa or in a study.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the two fittings and their separate maximum wattages. The reading arm is also adjustable, so you can direct the light rather than relying solely on the lamp’s appearance.

Key benefit & advantages

180 cm high, adjustable reading arm, in-line switch and IP20 rating for dry indoor spaces.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users

Moki Multi-Leg Floor Lamp 150 cm High White Bamboo

Why it suits this profile: The combination of wood, cotton and a wide shade works well in a reading corner, living room or child’s bedroom where soft ambient lighting is desired.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the dimensions, maximum wattage of 60 W and use of an external dimmer. This allows you to check in advance whether the lamp suits your space and bulb.

Key benefit & advantages

150 cm high, a shade with a diameter of 50 cm, a 3.2-metre cable and support for external dimming.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Aigostar Table Lamp Gray Ceramic Lamp With Shade H31cm E14 Fitting

Why it suits this profile: Thanks to its compact size, this lamp is suitable as a bedside lamp, reading lamp or light for a desk or side table.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The E14 fitting, 40 W maximum and absence of a bulb are clearly stated. This helps you avoid buying the wrong product for a narrow lampshade.

Key benefit & advantages

31 cm high, 18 cm wide, a 1.3-metre cable and an in-line switch.

Frequently asked questions about lamps

Which fitting do I need for a table lamp?

Check the light fitting’s specifications. E27 is a large screw fitting commonly found on table lamps and floor lamps. E14 is smaller and is often used for bedside lamps and compact decorative lamps. Never use a bulb that is incompatible with the fitting.

Are lamps without bulbs cheaper to run?

Not necessarily. A fitting supplied without a bulb gives you the freedom to choose your own LED bulb. When comparing options, consider the wattage, the brightness you want and the operating hours. An LED bulb generally uses less electricity than a traditional bulb for the same purpose, but the actual cost depends on how long it is used and the energy tariff.

How long does a lamp last?

The lifespan of the fitting depends on its materials, use and maintenance. With replaceable bulbs, the lifespan is primarily determined by the type of bulb you choose. Also check the statutory warranty information. The product details provided for several models state that a statutory warranty of at least two years applies under EU consumer rules.