A lamp can be placed on the top surface of a nightstand, which is one of its main functions. However, you must select an appropriate size that corresponds to the size of your nightstand, so you may be wondering what the best lamp size is for a nightstand.
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What Is the Ideal Size of a Nightstand Lamp?
The best lamp size is 28–30 inches tall and one-third the width of the nightstand, which is ideal for a standard-sized (27–30 inch) nightstand. A lamp should be large enough and the same height as a nightstand to appear proportionate to a headboard.
The ideal lamp size is the same as the size of the nightstand where it sits, plus one to two inches so that the lamp looks proportional to the headboard of the bed and provides adequate reading light.
However, keep in mind that the lamp’s size can vary depending on the size of the nightstand. If the nightstand is 27–30 inches tall, choose a lamp that is also 28–30 inches tall.
If the nightstand is relatively short, choose a lamp that is one to two inches taller so that the light does not fall directly on your eyes.
What is the typical size of a nightstand lamp?
A typical nightstand lamp is 28–30 inches tall with shade, plus or minus one or two inches. In addition, the width should be one-third the width of the nightstand.
Because a standard or average-sized nightstand is about 27–30 inches tall, this lamp is referred to as an average-sized nightstand lamp.
As a result, the lamp should be the same size as the nightstand or one inch taller to match the level of the bed’s headboard, which is the average size of a nightstand lamp.
Although the above-mentioned nightstand lamp size is considered average, the size of the nightstand lamp often depends on the size of the nightstand, bed, headboard, and room size as well. So make your decision after considering all of the facts.
How Do I Choose the Right Lamp Size for a Nightstand?
Four steps have been listed below to help you solve the problem of determining the lamp size for a nightstand.
Consider the height of the nightstand
The first factor to consider when deciding on the lamp size of the nightstand. Because your nightstand is the same height as your mattress, your lamp should be the same height to match the overall height of the bed and headboard.
If necessary, choose a lamp that is one to two inches taller than the average height.
Examine the bed dimensions
Bed size is another important factor to consider. If you have a king-sized bed or a thick and larger mattress, you should consider purchasing a taller and larger lamp to create a level with the mattress or bed.
In comparison to the height of your headboard
Compare the height of your nightstand and headboard before deciding on the lamp size for your nightstand, as the lamp size should equal the visual proportion of the headboard. If your headboard is higher than 36 inches, choose a taller-sized lamp for your nightstand.
Take note of the size of your room
Determine the lamp size based on the size of your room; if your bedroom is large, consider getting a larger one to complement and complete the look of your bedroom. On the other hand, if your bedroom is small, consider getting a smaller one. A teeny lamp in a large bedroom will give an unpleasant appearance.
The same is true for the smaller-sized room; choose an average-sized lamp for it, rather than a large-sized lamp, which will create a haphazard appearance.
What Size Lampshade Is Best For A Nightstand?
A lampshade for a nightstand should be twice the width of the lamp base and one-third the height of the lamp.
When shopping for a lampshade for your nightstand, take the time to measure the base and height of your lamp.
Assume the lamp base is about 5 inches in diameter, so select a lampshade that is at least 10 inches in diameter. And, if the total height of your lamp (including the harp and bulb) is around 30 inches, the shade must be around 10 inches tall.
However, it is always a good idea to buy a lampshade that fits your tastes and needs.
How Do You Determine What Size Lampshade You Require?
Now that you’ve purchased your lights, it’s time to determine the size of the lampshade you’ll require. To make things easier for you, all of the factors to consider have been listed step-by-step below.
Calculate the height of the lamp’s base
The first step is to measure the height of the lamp base, as the width of the lampshade should be nearly equal to the height of the lamp base.
With a measuring tape or ruler, measure the lamp base from the bottom of the base to the bottom of the rod, excluding the rod and bulb holder. This is how you’ll determine the width of the lampshade you want.
Calculate the Overall Height
The following step is to measure the overall height because the shade’s height is directly related to it. Take a measuring tape and measure the total height, including the harp, this time. Then select a lampshade that is one-third the height of the entire structure.
A lampshade’s height is important when you choose one because it determines how much of a cover the shade will have over the bulb without covering the base of the lamp.
Calculate the width of the lamp’s base
The final step is to measure the width of the lamp base, as the lampshade should be twice as wide as the lamp base.
If the lamp base is 10 inches wide, you must select a lampshade that is 20 inches wide.
What Is the Price of a Nightstand Lamp?
A nightstand lamp has no set price because it is entirely dependent on your preferences, brand, material, size, and shape.
However, if you buy from a retail store, the average price should be around $150, but a nightstand lamp can cost up to $2000 depending on the brand, material, and size.
So, rather than going to brand stores, if you want to get a good-quality laptop without spending a lot of money, you can get it from a retailer for a low price.
Which of the following lamps is too large for a nightstand?
A lamp that is larger than the nightstand and also extends above the headboard of the bed is too large to be placed on top of a nightstand.
In general, the lamp should be the same size as the nightstand, and the standard height is 28–30 inches, but if the nightstand is 27–30 inches tall but your lamp is 34–36 inches tall or more, it’s too big for a nightstand.
In addition, if the lamp has a large shade to cover the bulb, it is too large for a nightstand.
Should the height of a bedside lamp be higher than the height of the headboard?
No, the height of a bedside lamp should not be higher than the height of the headboard. It should be the same height as the headboard, or if the headboard is taller than 36 inches, choose a slightly larger lamp to create a balance between the lamp’s height and the headboard’s height.
Normally, a headboard is chosen based on the size of the room, and a lamp is chosen based on the size of the nightstand, but it is also important to choose a lamp that is the same height as the headboard so that the light does not directly reflect on your eyes or face.
However, if you use a lamp that is taller than the headboard, the reflection of light will be dimmed because the lamp is too tall. As a result, a bedside lamp should not be higher than the headboard.
Should Nightstand Lamps Be Coordinated?
The answer is “yes and no.”
Yes, because matching the lamps to the nightstand creates a complete, symmetrical look that complements the overall look of your bedroom.
No, whether you choose matched or unmatched lamps are up to you, as well as how you arrange and decorate your room.
Choose a lamp that fits your nightstand’s height, size, and color. It also helps if your bedroom’s theme and decor match the lamp, so it looks good together.
However, if you don’t have a matching lamp, consider matching the size of the lamp with your nightstand to avoid an imbalance.
What Can You Put Under A Lamp To Make It Look Taller?
You can make your lamp appear taller by using a lamp decor riser, a stack of books, and wooden props.
Lamp decor risers are beautiful pedestals that are the best choice if you want to keep the look of your bedroom clean.
However, if you want to save money, you can use wooden lamp riser props, which are also a great option and give a classy look.
And, if you’re looking for a low-cost option, a stack of old books can be used to make your lamp appear taller.
It’s an undeniable fact that the best lamp size is always the one that matches the size of your nightstand. So, always buy a lamp that is the same height as your nightstand and one-third the width of your nightstand, and you’ll have the perfect lamp size for your nightstand.