The use of wall sconces is becoming an integral part of bedroom lighting. Right? Hung on either side of the walls, these lights provide excellent functionality. However, the question is: how to hang wall sconces in a bedroom? Remember, hanging wall sconces is different from installing conventional lighting.
You can place traditional lights either on the table top or in the ceiling. However, the wall sconce lighting fixtures hang on the walls, which makes their installation process a bit unique. In this article, I will explain the step-by-step process of hanging wall sconces in a bedroom. Reading this article will help you hang these lights with ease. So, let's begin!
How to Hang Wall Sconces in a Bedroom? Step By Step.
Remember, hanging them at the right height is very important for achieving the best lighting effect. Why? Because if they're too high, the light may feel distant. But if they are too low, it can shine directly in your eyes. So how will you measure the correct height of wall sconces next to your bed? In the section below, you’ll learn the installation process of sconce lights in simple steps.
Step 1: Decide For What Purpose are Sconces
Before you start measuring or mounting your wall sconces, the very first thing you need to understand is the purpose of your wall sconces. Understanding the purpose of the sconces helps you choose the right height and brightness. For example, some people hang wall sconces for reading in bed. However, some use them to create soft lighting or simply for decoration. If you are choosing a specific style, such as an alabaster sconce, which not only provides illumination but also adds a decorative, soft-glow effect.
Each purpose requires a slightly different placement and lighting angle for even lighting. For instance, for reading, you will need to hang wall sconces at a height that faces your reading nook directly. However, for cozy lighting, you can hang wall sconces a bit higher on the wall. In this way, each purpose determines the appropriate height for wall sconces next to your bed.
Step 2: Measure the Height from the Floor
Once you've decided on the purpose of your wall sconces, the next step is to measure how high to hang them from the floor. This is one of the most important parts because it directly affects how comfortable the light will be. How high to hang wall sconces next to bed? Generally, the ideal height for most wall sconces next to the bed is between 60 and 66 inches (152–168 cm) from the floor. This general range usually places the light at about eye level when you're sitting up in bed.
It allows the light to spread evenly across your space without creating glare or uneven shadows. However, this height may vary slightly depending on your bed and mattress heights. For example, if you have a tall bed or a high headboard, this height range can be 68 inches from the floor. On the other hand, if your bed is lower, you can hang them closer to 58–60 inches.
Step 3: Measure the Distance from the Headboard
After deciding the height of wall sconces, the next step is to measure how far they should be from your headboard. This distance affects both the look and functionality of your lighting. So, an ideal height for the sconces is about 8 to 12 inches from the edge of your headboard.
This range evenly distributes light on both sides of the bed, preventing glare. However, this range is not fixed. You can adjust the distance according to your bed size and design. For example, with wider headboards, you can hang wall sconces farther apart for even light distribution.
Step 4: Hang and Test the Lighting
After finalizing the position of your wall sconces, it's time to hang them properly. You should know that each wall sconce has a different hanging method. So you must start by reading the manufacturer's instructions carefully. After that, attach the mounting bracket to the wall where you marked the placement earlier.
Next, connect the electrical wires by matching the black, white, and green or copper wires together. Once the connections are done, attach the sconce fixture to the mounting bracket and secure it with screws. After installation, turn the power back on and test the light. Finally, look at how the light spreads across your headboard and the surrounding area.
Things to Consider When Hanging a Wall Sconce Next to a Bed
Installing or hanging wall sconces beside your bed might seem simple. However, it is essential to consider some details that ensure safety and proper installation. Here is the list of those factors you must keep in mind when hanging wall sconces next to your bed.
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Height and Eye Level: The height of your wall sconces plays a significant role in visual effect. Ideally, the sconce wall should be a few inches above your shoulder level when sitting in bed. This height prevents glare that can irritate you and ensures that the light shines evenly.
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Switch Accessibility: As you know, wall sconces beside the bed are hung for easy access. Your next factor you should consider is switch accessibility. It's crucial that you can easily turn your sconce on or off without getting out of bed. For this, I recommend considering sconces with built-in switches, pull chains, or remote controls.
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Type of Bulb & Color: Bulb type and color also matter a lot when hanging wall sconces. For example, if you prefer a relaxing, cozy atmosphere, you should choose warm-white bulbs. For flexibility, choose dimmable bulbs so you can adjust their intensity. However, avoid using overly bright or cool-toned bulbs. The reason is that they can make the room harsh.
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Wiring and Safety: Safety should always be your priority. If your wall sconces require hardwiring, turn off the power before hanging. If you're not confident with electrical work, it's always best to call a professional electrician. However, if you don't do electrical work, I recommend choosing plug-in sconces. These wall sconces only need a wall outlet, not wiring.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, wall scones are an excellent option for lighting a bedroom. Right? It can illuminate the room and enhance the space's aesthetic appeal. However, hanging wall sconces is not as simple as one may think. In fact, there are multiple factors you should know before hanging the wall sconce in the bedroom.
In this article, I explain the five steps that will help you hang wall sconces much more easily. Remember, you should always keep these lighting fixtures above your shoulder, but not too far. A wall sconce hung too high or too low can affect the lighting effect. When hung or installed correctly, these sconce lights perform better than conventional lights.
