In cleaning out the attic or reorganizing the basement, questions can arise about where to put that old floor lamp. Or perhaps you have found a great bargain at the thrift store or garage sale. If you’re looking for the best use of an old or new floor lamp, here are some easy suggestions to light up your home.
Remember to keep your lamps in good condition and to dust the shades and bulbs regularly. Always try to make sure that the lamps are safe, and not a fire hazard. Check cords, plugs, shades, and switches to make sure there are no danger risks. If the cord begins to wear or fray, have it replaced for a small fee at a lighting store or electrician’s shop. If you smell smoke or a burning stench after turning the lamp on, do not use it.
The nice thing about floor lamps is that you can move them around quite readily to try out new spots or furniture arrangements. You may also change the shade of the lamp for a new look or to make it fit with your room’s decor. They can be hidden behind a bookshelf or screen to stay out of the way, or placed prominently near a comfortable seat for easy viewing.
One of the most popular places for a floor lamp is the living room. If a family member wants to read a book or check out the newspaper, you can simply place the lamp next to a comfortable chair for helpful viewing and extra light. An accessible floor lamp helps when fumbling around for the television remote, trying to locate reading glasses, or picking up a dropped pen, along with other miscellaneous items that commonly get misplaced in the living or family room.
A second option is to place a floor lamp in one of the bedrooms. Sometimes at night you may feel hungry or need to use the bathroom. Perhaps you’ll want to read a little bit if you are unable to sleep. Whatever the need, having a floor lamp within reach will provide the needed light to make sure you don’t trip on slippers, clothing, or other items on the floor. Setting the lamp near the bed is probably a good idea so that users can find it quickly and without stumbling.
Another possible location may be found in the basement. Your home’s lowest level is often not as healthy as the rest of the house. It may be darker and stuffier, dustier and dimmer. Located underground where less light is likely to be found, this area may benefit from a floor lamp for safety purposes and help you find stored, lost, or repair items, especially if the overhead light burns out.
Dens, libraries, spare rooms, attics, home offices, and even sheds or garages may benefit from a floor lamp when cost or accessibility are potential concerns. You can always try using a floor lamp, which, if it doesn’t work for one reason or another, can be quickly and easily removed.
Look for additional areas of your home that are obscure, as these may also benefit from a well-placed floor lamp that can be moved for easy adjustment.
