Bedside Lamp Size Guide
A bedside lamp must fit the table, screen the bulb and remain easy to operate from bed. Measure the whole arrangement rather than choosing by shade diameter alone.
Begin with the mattress height
Sit up in your normal reading position. Compare your eye level with the proposed lower edge of the shade. A lamp that looks correct while standing may expose the bulb once you are in bed.
Check the table surface
Measure width and depth, then allow space for a phone, water and other essentials. The base must sit fully on the surface, and the shade should not project where it is easily knocked.
Plan reading light
Light should fall across the page without shining directly into the eyes. Pale stained glass and an open lower shade usually provide more useful task light than a dense, deeply coloured design.
Make the switch reachable
Check whether the control is on the lampholder, a pull chain or the cable. You should not need to stretch behind furniture. Route the cable away from drawers and places where it can be pulled.
One lamp or a pair?
Matching lamps create symmetry, but bedside tables and sleeping positions may differ. Related colours and similar overall heights can look coordinated while allowing each side to use a different brightness.
Small tables
Prioritise a compact base and controlled shade width. Avoid compensating for a tiny table with an excessively tall, top-heavy lamp.
Checklist
- Mattress and bedside-table height.
- Seated eye level.
- Base footprint and usable table area.
- Shade width and bulb screening.
- Reachable switch and safe cable route.
Browse our Tiffany table lamps and read Tiffany lamps for bedrooms.