Table Lamps

The difference between desk lamps and table lamps

When it comes to home lighting, desk lamps and table lamps can really transform a room in the evenings. But how do they differ?

A table lamp is commonly used for ambient or accent light, or as a decorative device positioned to brighten dark corners and add to the atmosphere of a room at night or overcast days. Table lights come in many amazing shapes, sizes and styles to reflect every possible interior design scheme. Some even feature cutouts in the shade to cast interesting shadows on walls and furniture.

A desk light is a small, directional light designed to facilitate a particular task like reading or knitting or other crafting activities. They are more utilitarian in presentation but that doesn't mean they can't be stylish additions to the home.

Desk lights typically sit on desks but often can be clamped to the sides of tables, shelves and bookcases to limit their footprint. Additionally, they tend to feature a variety of moving parts to enhance their functionality - swivelling arms and shades, and extendable sections - through the very specific direction of the light.

Cleaning your lamp shades

Between grubby hands and attracting all manner of insects, lamp shades can get dirty and become a silent health hazard sitting in the corner of your room. However, with regular cleaning, you not only give your lamp shades longer life but you keep them hygienic too.

With fabric shades

Remove as much dust as possible with a vacuum cleaner (if the shade is sturdy) or a lint roller (if the shade is delicate). For fabrics glued to the wireframe, you can immerse the entire shade in cold, soapy water but do not leave it there to soak. Rinse thoroughly with cold water, pat dry then air-dry further until it's ready to reattach to the lamp.

With paper or parchment shades

Since these lamps cannot be immersed in water, dust them instead with a microfibre cloth. If their dye is colourfast (do a spot test on the inner rim), you can use a damp cloth on more stubborn stains or grime.

With plastic or fibreglass shades

Similar to paper or parchment lamps, use a microfibre cloth to dust inside and out. If the lamp is particularly dirty, you can wash it in a sink with warm, soapy water (with an added dash of vinegar, if you need to get some elbow grease into the grime).

With glass shades

You can pop your glass shades in the dishwasher but, for the best results, just make sure the load is not overcrowded. Otherwise, wash the glass shade in a sink of warm, soapy water with vinegar.

Find the right table lamps and desk lamps at Spotlight

Ready to purchase? Click through our range of table lamps and desk lamps online. Alternatively, head into a Spotlight store to see what's available and speak with one of our friendly customer service team who'll be happy to answer your questions.