8 Steps to choosing the best table lamp
by Jan Addams CDECA, LIIID, MIRM
Step 1 Take measurements to be sure the table lamp will be tall enough to cast its light over your shoulder, especially from a chair-side table. The bottom of the shade should be about even with your cheekbone when you’re sitting on the chair, and the light’s beam should fall on the page – if you are reading.
Step 2 Find out what the lamp’s maximum wattage is. A reading lamp should offer 150 or more watts. To make it even more versatile a tri-light lamp that offers 50, 100 & 150 watts is ideal.
Step 3 Check that the bottom edge of the shade hides the lamp’s bulb socket when the lamp is viewed from a few feet away. This will make the lamp more attractive as well as reduce the potential for glare.
Step 4 Examine the shade to see whether it suits your needs. To get the highest light output use a white or off-white fabric shade. A darker or opaque shade will limit the light output, which is suitable in entryways. A Tiffany glass shade will cast a ‘colour light show’.
Step 5 Ask the lighting store manager whether you can swap or purchase a different shade to satisfy your functional needs.
Step 6 Make sure you are able to bring the lamp back for a full refund, especially if you find that it’s too tall, too chunky, too bright or too dark.
Step 7 Take the lamp home and test it at various times of the day – morning, noon and evening as natural light conditions may affect how it looks.
Step 8 Grab a book, a cup a Java and relax by the glowing light of your new table lamp!