How do I choose the right bulb fitting?

Check your existing fitting, such as B22 bayonet or E27/E14 screw, and match it exactly. Listings state the fitting, brightness in lumens and colour temperature.

What colour temperature should I choose?

Warm white (around 2700K) suits cosy living spaces, while cool white and daylight suit kitchens, bathrooms and workspaces where you want crisper, brighter light.

Can I use any string lights outdoors?

Only lights with a suitable IP rating for outdoor use. Indoor-only lights aren't weatherproof and aren't safe outside in the rain, so always check the listing.

Lighting Buying Guide: Brighter Rooms, Lower Bills…

Lighting is one of the cheapest ways to change how a room feels, and switching to efficient bulbs quietly trims your bills at the same time. The main things to get right are simple: the correct fitting, the right brightness, and a colour that suits the room. Get those sorted and the rest is easy. Here’s our guide.

The short version

Match the bulb fitting exactly, then pick brightness (lumens) and colour temperature for the room. Layer ceiling, lamp and accent light. And only use outdoor-rated lights outside.

Bulbs: get the basics right

Most lighting upgrades start with the light bulbs. Check your fitting first (bayonet or screw, and which size), then choose brightness in lumens and a colour temperature to suit the room. Warm white feels cosy in living spaces, while cooler light works better where you need to see clearly.

Light a room in layers

A single ceiling light rarely does a room justice. The trick with indoor lighting is to layer it: general light from above, task light from lamps, and a bit of accent light for atmosphere. Dimmable bulbs give you flexibility to shift from bright and practical to soft and relaxed.

A good rechargeable torch is one of those things you're always glad to own. Check price on Amazon →

Don’t get caught in the dark

A reliable torch earns its place for power cuts, camping and late-night jobs in the loft. A few hundred lumens covers everyday use, and rechargeable models save you buying batteries. It’s a small buy that you’ll reach for more than you’d expect.

Outdoors and seasonal

For the garden or the festive season, check the rope and string lights or holiday lighting you’re eyeing are rated for outdoor use if that’s where they’re going. An IP rating on the listing is what tells you they’ll cope with the weather.

How we pick the top products

Every category is ranked by real Amazon customer rating and review count, so you see efficient, well-rated lighting rather than the most promoted. Prices move, so we send you to Amazon for the current one.

Browse the full Lighting department to brighten up.

Home & Kitchen buying guide for pulling a room together.
Garden & Outdoors buying guide for outdoor living and evenings out.

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