Reading is a pastime many of us enjoy. Whether you are reading while curled up in your favorite chair or when you go to bed it's important that you have the proper lighting. Here are some tips for choosing reading lamps that work.
If you don't have the perfect reading lamp you'll cause eye strain that could give you a headache. Remember too as we get older our eyes need more light. In fact by the time we are 60 years old we need 80% more light than we did at the age of 20. So be kind to your eyes. They are the only ones you have.
1. Halogen or Fluorescent
consider choosing these types of bulbs over incandescent bulbs. Halogen bulbs produce a nice white light which is excellent for reading and today's fluorescent bulbs are available in many different shades so you can find one that is white enough for reading.
2. Distance
Your book should be 14 to 18 inches away from your eyes. This is the distance recommended by most eye specialists.
3. Tall Enough
Make sure the lamp you choose is tall enough so that you can angle the shade and have enough light cast onto what you are reading. Lamps that are too short have a problem projecting the light to the reading surface.
4. Energy Efficient
Choosing a reading lamp that is energy efficient can save you some money over the year especially if you spend a great deal of time using the light. Try to choose lamps that use a bulb of 60 watts or less.
5. Reduce Eye Strain
By choosing adequate lighting, ensuring the lighting is correctly placed, and by ensuring that glare and shadows are eliminated.
6. Set Your Budget
Like anything reading lamps come in a wide range of prices. It's best to set your budget before you start shopping and then stick to it. If you are looking to purchase an antique lamp you can expect to pay more but modern and vintage lamps are available for very affordable prices.
7. Location
If you are right handed place your lamp on the left side and slightly in front of you to reduce shadow. Do not place the lamp in front of your book as this will cause glare.
8. Adjustable
Lamps with an adjustable arm are very handy as you can easily adjust the angle of the light for whatever position you are sitting or lying to read. Goose necks are very affordable and there's some great styles available too.
There are many different reading lamp styles available from the more traditional banker style to the portable clip on lamp and everything in between. Why not make your reading lamp part of your décor by choosing a style that's complimentary.
A quick search online will reveal hundreds of websites with a great selection of reading lamps to choose from. So whether your looking to spend $20 or $200 there's a lamp that's just perfect for you out there!
Bellacor.com
Leading lighting fixtures and home furnishings supplier features free shipping!
Listed below are a few of the popular lighting categories available at Bellacor.
www.Bellacor.com
Absolute Home
Choose from a broad selection of chandeliers, ceiling lights and fans, wall sconces, hanging lights and pendants, and bathroom lighting!
www.AbsoluteHome.com
