What Size Lamp for Nightstand? Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Bedside Lamp Size

Choosing the right size lamp for your bedside table is crucial to creating the perfect atmosphere and enhancing the aesthetics of your bedroom. Whether you are aiming for functional lighting or aesthetic lighting, understanding the principles behind choosing the correct size is key to achieving the atmosphere you desire. Let's explore what size lamp for nightstand.

Rules of Thumb for Choosing Bedroom Nightstand Lamp Size

A commonly applied rule is that the maximum height of the lamp is 1.5 times the height of the nightstand and the lampshade is 2/3 the height of the lamp. Or you can also choose a lamp so that the bottom of the lampshade is at eye level when you sit on the bed.

This distance is usually between 16 – 24 inches (40 - 60cm) from the nightstand surface to the lampshade or lampshade equal to half to 2/3 of the lamp height. This helps ensure that the downlight will be sufficient for reading or working without causing glare, but not too high above the table surface.

When looking for what size lamp for nightstand, you also need to make sure it matches the size of the nightstand. The general rule is that the lamp should be no wider than the surface area of the nightstand. If your nightstand has a small area, a small base lamp or a rotating function will avoid obstructing the space and create a comfortable feeling.

It is essential to have a lamp that complements the overall style and decor of the bedroom. Whether your bedroom has a modern or traditional style, a suitable lamp will enhance the aesthetics of the space.

Let's take a look at popular types of lamps as well as determine what size lamp for nightstand.

Wall lamps (Sconces): 

Wall lamps provide additional light for reading and sleeping as well as a decorative highlight for the bedroom space. Wall lamps come in many designs and sizes, so you should estimate the size on the wall and then choose the appropriate lamp. The best height to hang the lamp is about 66 - 72 inches (167 - 182cm) from the floor.

Pendant lights:

The main goal of pendant lights is to ensure adequate functional lighting for the work or entertainment space in bed. The ideal location for a pendant light is for its bottom point to be about 24 - 36 inches (60 - 90 cm) above the nightstand. This distance not only helps ensure that you have enough light to read or work in bed, but also minimizes annoying reflections and bulbs. This way, you can enjoy your sleep space without worrying about tired eyes or light interference.

Table lamps:

Table lamps are the most popular choice for bedside tables, providing direct light for relaxing activities and adding beauty to the room space. When choosing table lamp size, you are required to ensure that the height of the lamp should be proportional to the height of the lamp table. A lamp that is too short will not provide enough light, while a lamp that is too tall can look out of place. The lampshade is no wider than the table surface it is placed on.

So, what size lamp for a nightstand?

Normally, the maximum height of table lamps is 1.5 times the height of the nightstand. At the same time, the light bulb or lamp shade must be 2/3 of the overall height of the table lamps.

This convention ensures that the light from the lamp will not shine directly into your eyes whether you are reading a book in bed or sleeping. You should also choose a lamp with a width smaller than the nightstand surface as well as a lampshade twice as wide as the lamp base to bring aesthetics to the bedroom. Importantly, the larger the nightstand surface, the larger the lamp.

Standard Bedroom Nightstand Lamp Size

Bedside Lamp Part	Ideal Measurement
Total height	Equal to the height of the nightstand
Lamp shade height	Equal to half to 2/3 of the lamp height
Lamp shade width (at widest point)	Twice as wide as the lamp base
Base height	Equal to 1/3 of the height of the lamp
Base width (at widest point)	Equal to half of the lamp shade

How to Choose the Right Bedside Lamp Height?

Choosing the right height is an important part of finding what size lamp for nightstand but is often overlooked, leading to discomfort when used. Below are tips to help you choose the ideal height for your night light, contributing to your good and comfortable sleep.

Total Height of the Lamp for Nightstand

The height of the nightstand lamp affects how light is distributed in space. A lamp placed too low may result in insufficient light coverage, while a lamp placed too high may cause glare or be ineffective in providing functional light. If your nightstand and bed are the same height, the ideal height of a lamp would be equal to the height of the nightstand or plus 2 - 3 inches (5 - 7cm).

If your bed is too low, you should choose lamps with a lower height, about 22 – 27 inches (55 - 68cm). This height allows you to sit on the bed and read a book without glare or direct sunlight into your eyes.

Height of Lampshade for Nightstand

The ideal height of a lampshade for a nightstand ranges from 8 - 12 inches (20 - 30cm). Or you can apply the rule that the height of the lampshade is 2/3 of the height of the lamp base. Make sure when you sit on the bed that the bottom of the lampshade is at the level of your chin. A lamp with the right height will ensure light is spread well into the sleeping space without causing glare.

Height of Lamp Base for Nightstand

The principle when choosing the height of the lamp base is to create balance with the lampshade, the overall height of the lamp as well as the size of the nightstand. Normally the height of the lamp base should be between 18 - 24 inches (45 - 60cm). This height will ensure the bottom of the lampshade is at eye level when you sit next to it, thereby providing just enough light for relaxing activities.

The height ratio between the lampshade and the lamp base may vary depending on the style and design of the lamp as well as the intended use. However, a general rule of thumb is to make sure the height of the lampshade is about 2/3 of the height of the lamp base. A balanced ratio between these two parts helps light to be reflected evenly and comfortably as well as creating a harmonious and aesthetic appearance.

How to Choose the Right Bedside Lamp Width?

Choosing what size lamp for nightstand is essential to creating a balanced and harmonious bedroom space. The width of the night light not only affects the aesthetics of the space but also plays an important role in providing enough light for nighttime activities.

Total Width of the Lamp for Nightstand

The width of the lamp is proportional to the width of the nightstand. For a small nightstand, you may want to choose a lamp with a smaller width to avoid making the space feel overcrowded or cramped. On the contrary, a lamp with a larger width can create an interesting and attractive focal point for the nightstand. The ideal width of the lamp is 1/3 of the width of the nightstand. You should compare the widest part of both to make the most suitable choice.

Width of Lamp Base for Nightstand

The width of the nightstand lamp base should be commensurate with the width of the lampshade or at least not too small compared to the lampshade. Normally, the width of the lampshade is usually equal to 1/2 of the widest part of the lampshade. This size provides stability and safety for the lamp when placed on a surface to prevent it from falling as well as creating a harmonious and uniform appearance in the room.

The size of the lamp base should also be proportional to the nightstand. If the nightstand is small (under 20 inches of width) you should choose a lamp with a base 5 - 7 inches (12 - 17cm) wide. If the nightstand is medium-sized, (20 - 30 inches or50 - 76cm) wide, the base needs to be 7 - 10 inches (17 - 25cm) wide. A 10 - 14 inches (25 - 35cm) wide base is ideal for larger nightstands.

Width of Lampshade for Nightstand

Are you wondering what size lamp for nightstand? A lampshade that is too large can take up too much space and become bulky in a small space, while a lampshade that is too small can lose its prominence and aesthetic effect in a large space. A golden rule has been devised to help you find the perfect width for your lampshade. 

According to the golden rule, the lampshade width should be twice as wide as the lamp base or 1/2 the height of the overall lamp. This width is suitable to reflect light evenly and comfortably in the space.

5 Factors to Consider when Choosing Lamp Size for Nightstand

Choosing the perfect lamp size for your nightstand involves careful consideration of several factors to ensure both aesthetics and practical functionality, including:

• Room size: In smaller bedrooms, a compact lamp, 15 - 20 inches tall, may be more appropriate to avoid overwhelming the space. An average sized bedroom will need a lamp about 20 - 25 inches tall, while a larger room can accommodate a larger lamp, about 25 - 30 inches high, to increase lighting levels as well as aesthetics.
• Bed size: The width and height of the bed are proportional to the size of the lamp. A larger bed may require a larger lamp to maintain visual balance and ensure light dispersion.
• Style and personal preference: Make sure the nightstand lamp matches the overall style of the bedroom whether it is modern, traditional, minimalist or eclectic, it will enhance the aesthetics of the room. In addition, you can also choose a lamp with a few additional features such as automatic brightness adjustment, adjustable light direction, USB port...
• Available space on the nightstand: Take the surface area of the headboard into account when choosing lamp size. Make sure the lamp doesn't overwhelm the available space and leave room for other essentials on the nightstand such as books, glasses, phone or clock.
• Purpose of lamp: If the primary purpose is for reading, a lamp with a shade that reaches up to your chin while sitting in bed with a focused light source should be your choice. If used primarily for ambient lighting, a lamp with a softer light and wide light dispersion may be more suitable.

12+ Lamp Styles for Nightstand From Classic to Modern

Discover your ideal nightstand lamp in our collection of over 12 styles, ranging from classic to modern, each crafted to complement your bedroom décor and provide the perfect lighting solution.

Lamp Style	Usage	Price
Abstract Ceramic Mini Table Lamp	Suitable for people who love art and creativity Contemporary style Create a comfortable and warm space, ideal for resting and reading.	$69 - $82
Dedda Metal Novelty Lamp	Suitable for modern and creative decorative spaces. Minimalist but luxurious design Mid-century style	$106 - $200
Sidnie Lamp	Suitable for spaces with modern or minimalist interiors Use as a night light, reading light or highlight Provides soft and warm light	$159 - $399
Pixi Ochre Metal Kids Swivel Table Lamp	Provides soft light to help children easily concentrate and study Minimalist and modern style Illuminate the desk and nightstand in the child's room.	$90 - $99
Ribbed Glass Table Lamp	Suitable for modern and elegant interior spaces Use as a night light, reading light or desk lamp Create a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere.	$99 - $198
Amelia Adjustable Lamp	Flexibility in adjusting lighting Suitable for many different styles from modern to classic Minimalist design	$99 - $179
Chiara Lamp	Elegant and bold design The lampshade resembles a headscarf Suitable for nightstand next to the bed in bedrooms and living rooms	$100 - $500
Epoxy Lamp	Creative and unique design Both to illuminate the bedroom and as a decorative highlight Brings a warm and artistic space Suitable for those who love crafts and handmade items	$49 - $59
Koepel Metal Lamp	Classic mushroom shape High-end style of the 21st century Suitable for those who love classic and luxurious style Create a warm, sophisticated atmosphere when reading, sleeping or sipping wine	$86 - $149
Mid-Century Bubble Lamp Ball	Mid-Century style Brings a gentle yet durable look Provides abundant and diffused light Perfect for those who love interior décor from the 1950s and 1960s.	$200 - $400
Sculptural Glass 5-Light Globe Chandelier	Modern and luxurious style Create highlights and artistic style for the space Provide light that is bright enough and evenly distributed in space Can be used in bedroom, living room, dining room	$381 - $569
Short Drum Pendant	Modern style Short drum shape design, elegant and sophisticated Suitable for many different interior spaces Can be hung on the side of the bed to create a warm and comfortable sleeping space	$138 - $299

*Note: Prices are updated at the time of this article and may be subject to changes. 

By finding out what size lamp for nightstand, you can choose the right size lamp, turning your bedroom into a haven of comfort and style. Hopefully, after reading this article, you will feel more confident when choosing the size of a night light for your resting space. If possible, take the time to explore your options, experimenting with different designs to enrich and refresh your living space.

FAQs

Why Does Nightstand Lamp Size Matter?

The size of the night lamp affects the aesthetics of the room, creating balance and harmony in the bedside area. In addition, the size of the lamp determines its function, ensuring it provides enough light for pre-sleep activities such as reading or relaxing. Choosing the right size will avoid glare caused by high lights or visibility problems caused by short lights. Above all, it will enhance the overall space of the bedroom while meeting practical lighting needs.

Should each nightstand have a lamp?

While having a lamp on each nightstand is not an absolute requirement, it is a practical option for many bedrooms. If you live alone and the bedroom is small, one lamp is enough. However, if you have a partner and a bigger room, two is a must. Proper placement of lights on both sides can enhance symmetry, balance and aesthetics. They also ensure adequate lighting for activities such as reading or relaxing.

What light bulb is best for a bedside lamp?

If you mainly use a nightstand lamp for reading and want to relax before going to bed, a very warm white or warm white LED bulb is ideal. Look for bulbs with a color temperature between 2,000 - 3,000K. This range emits warm, yellow light, so it disrupts melatonin production less and helps you sleep more easily.

How tall should a nightstand lamp be?

The lamp should be between 24 and 32 inches tall.

Should a bedside lamp be taller or shorter than a headboard?

The lamp should be roughly the same height as the headboard, which can create a balanced and harmonious look. For example, a lamp that is 28 - 30 inches tall can be a good match for a traditional-style headboard.

However, it’s also important to consider the overall scale of the room and the furniture. A lamp that is too tall or too short can look out of proportion and disrupt the balance of the space.