Warm lighting explained: which bulbs to buy and how to layer light
Short answer: choose bulbs labelled around 2700K for living spaces, use several lamps at different heights instead of one ceiling light, and add a dimmer so you can lower the light in the evening. Check the fitting on the old bulb before you buy.
What "warm white" means
Light colour is measured in kelvin (K). Lower numbers are warmer and more yellow, higher numbers are cooler and bluer.
| Rating | Looks like | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 2200K to 2700K | Warm, candle-like to traditional bulb | Living rooms and bedrooms |
| 3000K | Soft white | Kitchens and bathrooms, if you prefer a gentler look |
| 4000K and above | Neutral to cool white | Workspaces and garages |
How bright should it be?
Brightness is measured in lumens, not watts. A bulb of about 800 lumens gives roughly the light of an old 60-watt incandescent bulb. For lamps in a relaxed room, 400 to 800 lumens is a common range. If you use dimmable bulbs, you can go brighter and turn them down.
Check the fitting
In the UK the most common fittings are B22 (a bayonet push-and-twist), E27 (a standard screw) and E14 (a small screw, often called SES). Look at the bulb you are replacing, or the lamp itself, to see which you need.
Dimmers and compatibility
Only dimmable bulbs work with a dimmer, and not every dimmer works with every LED bulb. Check the pack for "dimmable", and check the dimmer's minimum load. A plug-in lamp dimmer or a smart bulb is the simplest option if you rent.
Layer the light
- Ambient: the general light for the room, such as a floor lamp or a wall light, on a dimmer if possible.
- Task: a reading lamp by the sofa or a bedside light, where you actually need to see.
- Accent: a small lamp or a string of lights on a shelf or a corner, for a soft glow.
Aim for at least three light sources at different heights, and put lamps in the corners of the room, not just in the middle.
Check the colour quality
Look for a colour rendering index (CRI) of 80 or higher on the pack. Higher is better for skin, food and fabrics. Cheap bulbs with a low CRI can make a warm room look dull.