How to find the best reading lights for your home
Unwinding with a good book requires the right lighting. The perfect reading light should offer warm white light, striking a balance between brightness and a cosy, eye-friendly ambiance. Whether you’re designing a reading nook, illuminating your headboard, or choosing bedside table lighting, there are options to match every style—from minimalist Scandinavian to sleek contemporary designs. Portable reading lamps, with rechargeable batteries, offer flexibility and convenience, perfect for moving around the house or even using outdoors.
Popular reading lamps
Directional light
For focused reading, directional lighting is essential. It directs light to a specific area, making it perfect for reading where adequate brightness and narrow beams are needed.
Glare-free light
Warm white lighting (below 3,000 Kelvin) is ideal for reading, helping to avoid eye strain. The light should be glare-free and adjustable to your preferences for maximum comfort.
Flexibility
A great reading light should be adjustable to fit your needs. Look for lamps with joints, swing arms, and adjustable shades, which allow you to tailor the light direction. Plug-and-play wall lights offer extra convenience.
Tip: Modern LED lights provide energy savings and long lifespans. For reading, opt for LED lamps with a warm white light under 3,300 Kelvin. Dimmable and smart options are available for more control.
Floor lamps for reading
Turn your reading corner into a cosy retreat
Place a floor lamp next to or behind the sofa to create the perfect reading nook. Floor lamps come in various styles, from modern to industrial, and provide both style and functionality. For added comfort, choose a model with an additional reading light.
Floor lamps with shelves
A practical addition to your reading space, floor lamps with built-in shelves offer both illumination and storage. Perfect for placing your cup of tea or organizing your books and magazines.
Table Lamps for reading and working
Functional lighting in versatile styles
Table lamps provide focused, glare-free lighting, ideal for reading or working in comfort. Models with adjustable arms and swivelling shades offer customization to suit your needs, reducing the risk of eye strain.
Wall lights for the reading corner & bedroom
A space-saving option
Wall lights bring both style and targeted illumination to your reading space. Adjustable lights, such as those with swing arms or swan necks, are great for positioning the light just where you need it.
Clip-on reading lamps
Plug and play!
Clip-on reading lamps are a practical and space-efficient solution. Simply attach them to a table, shelf, or headboard. Adjustable models allow you to position the light perfectly, and their portability is a major plus.
Uplighters
More flexibility: uplighters with reading light
Uplighters provide indirect lighting, creating a cosy atmosphere in the room. If you want additional directional light for reading, choose a model that includes a flexible reading light.
Bedside reading lamps
The right reading lamps for your bedside table
For reading in bed, bedside table lamps with warm white light offer comfort and relaxation. Choose a design that complements your bedroom's interior and provides glare-free lighting for nighttime reading.
Arc lamps for reading
A stylish option for the reading nook
Arc lamps provide overhead light, offering both style and functionality. These lamps arch gracefully over your sofa or reading chair, making them a statement piece in your room while enhancing your reading experience.
Portable reading lamps
Rechargeable lights for reading
Portable reading lamps are perfect for flexible lighting. With rechargeable USB batteries, you can use them in any room or even outdoors, allowing you to enjoy your reading in comfort, no matter where you are.
Pendant lights for the reading corner
Hanging lights for the reading nook
Pendant lights are a great solution for smaller spaces, offering focused, directional lighting in your reading nook. These fixtures save space while providing optimal light for reading.
FAQ: frequently asked questions about reading lamps
Which light colour is best for reading?
Warm white light, under 3,300 Kelvin, is recommended for bedtime reading as it promotes relaxation and helps prepare your body to wind down. For focused reading or studying, daylight white (3,300K–5,300K) supports concentration and focus.
How can I read books in bed without disturbing my partner?
To avoid disturbing your partner, use a bedside light at your side of the bed. A dimmable, narrow-beamed, warm white light is ideal for reading without disturbing others.
Which additional features are available for reading lamps?
Many reading lamps come with smart bulbs, allowing you to adjust brightness and colour temperature. Other features include clamps for flexible attachment, USB ports, or Qi charging options. Some floor lamps even combine storage with illumination, making them practical additions to your reading space.