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How to Pick the Right Table Lamp for Your Home

A Simple Guide to Narrow Your Search

Shopping for a table lamp can feel overwhelming. There are so many sizes, shapes, and styles to choose from. And then there's the question of brightness, placement, and shade.

Don't worry - you're in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to buy a table lamp, step-by-step, because you deserve to light your space with confidence and style. 


Measure Your Space First

Before you start shopping, take a good look at where your lamp will go.
Height Matters
When placing on a nightstand, you'll want a table lamp tall enough to give you ample reading light without glaring in your eyes. As a rule of thumb, the bottom of the lampshades should sit at eye-level when seated next to it.
For placement on end or side tables in a living room, consider how the lamp will pair with your sofa or chair. Lamps that are too short can be underwhelming, while lamps that are too tall can be blinding.
Pro Tip: Combine the table height and lamp height to reach 58-64 inches in total. This keeps the light source at a comfortable level and indicates that the lamp is 24-30 inches tall.

Pick the Right Size

Size is one of the biggest mistakes people make when buying a table lamp. It's easy to fall in love with a lamp that looks perfect in the store but feels completely wrong at home.
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Choose a Style That Complements Your Room

Your lamp doesn't have to match everything in your room perfectly - but it should feel like it belongs.
If your space is modern, look for clean lines, minimal shapes, and finishes like brushed nickel or matte back.
For a traditional room, you might prefer a lamp with sculpted base, a fabric shade, and warm finishes like brass or bronze.
And if you love a cozy, farmhouse vibe, ceramic or wood bases with neutral linen shades can add charm without stealing the spotlight.
Think of your lamp as the jewelry of the room - it can tie everything together or add just the right amount of contrast.
Pro Tip: Filter your search results by Style to expedite your table lamp search!

Don't Overlook the Lampshade

A lampshade isn't just decoration - it completely changes how the light can feel in a room.

Opaque or dark-colored shades create a warm, intimate glow, perfect for bedrooms or cozy corners.

Light-colored or translucent shades diffuse light more broadly, making them great for reading or general lighting.

The shape matters, too:
  • Drum shades are modern and versatile.
  • Bell shades feel classic and elegant.
  • Rectangular or square shades work well in contemporary spaces.

Make sure the shade hides the bulb when you're sitting nearby - you don't want to see a bare bulb every time you look over.

Set a Budget





Table lamps come in all price ranges. You don't have to spend a fortune to find something beautiful and functional. It's important to note, higher-quality materials and better craftsmanship usually means your lamp will last longer and keep its charm over time.

When selecting the perfect lamp, decide what's most important to you - style, durability, or price - and shop with that priority in mind.

Buying Tips

At Lighting New York, we want to ensure you have the best experience when purchasing a table lamp.
Here are some quick tips to guarantee a seamless purchase:

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Shop with a Reputable Retailer

Always research the retailer(s) you're considering purchasing from.

Lighting New York is nationally recognized for their outstanding customer service, with industry certified Lighting Experts available seven days a week to assist you every step of the way. Backed by an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, we are also a trusted Google Partner.

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Read Customer Reviews

Reviews are a great tool to find out firsthand the experience customers, like you, have had with a product and/or company.

Lighting New York has over 60,000 verified 5-star customer reviews!


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Check the Return Policy

No one should fear returning a product if they are unsatisfied.

At Lighting New York, we offer 60-day risk-free returns and no restock fees





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Price Guarantee

Never overpay for your purchase.

We offer our 150% Lowest Price Guarantee; if you find a lower advertised price elsewhere on the same item, we'll gladly meet that price and beat it with an additional 50% difference!



Installation & Maintenance

Proper installation and regular maintenance are key to enjoying your wall sconce for years to come.

Professional Installation

Table lamps are typically easy to set up since they simply plug into a standard outlet. Unlike hardwired fixtures, they don't require electrical installation.

For the best results use the recommended bulb type and wattage to avoid overheating. Ensure cords are placed safely to prevent tripping hazards. If incorporating smart bulbs or dimmers, you may wish to consult an electrician to confirm compatibility with your home's electrical system.

This way, you'll enjoy both style and safety without the need for complex installation.

Regular Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures that your table lamp continue to function properly and look their best.

Clean the fixtures regularly to remove dust, water spots, and product buildup. Wipe gently with a soft, damp cloth and avoid harsh cleaners that may damage the finish. Check for any damaged or burnt-out bulbs and replace them promptly.

Choosing the right table lamp may feel like a small decision, but it can have a big impact. The right lamp doesn't just light a room - it creates an experience, sets a mood, and make your home feel complete.

You don't have to settle for a lamp that's too small, too bright, or out of place. Measure your space, choose a size and style you love, and bring your room to life. Because at the end of the day, you deserve to live in a space that feels warm, welcoming, and uniquely yours.