How High to Hang Wall Sconces Next to Bed

The goal is to place the light source just above eye level when you are sitting up to provide focused light without harsh glare. A good starting point is hanging the center of the fixture about 55 to 65 inches from the floor, or roughly 6 to 12 inches above the top of your nightstand.

Choosing the right height for your bedside wall sconces is crucial for both comfort and functionality, especially if you enjoy reading in bed. Noah Miller, the lighting design expert at Rowabi, suggests that the ideal height is not a fixed number, but a functional measurement based on your bed and sitting position. 

Key Takeaways

1. Determining Ideal Height (Function First)

The most accurate method involves measuring from your bed:

• Sitting Test: Sit up in your bed as if you were reading. Have an assistant mark the wall a few inches above your shoulder level. This mark should be close to the ideal bottom edge of your sconce shade to prevent glare.
• Above Nightstand: Aim for the center of the sconce to be placed 6 to 12 inches above the nightstand surface. This ensures easy reach and balance.
• Floor Measurement (General Rule): For standard mattress heights, the center of the fixture should generally fall between 60 and 66 inches from the floor. Adjust this up for extra-tall beds or down for lower beds.

2. Horizontal Placement & Adjustability

• Distance from Bed: Place the sconce horizontally about 10 to 12 inches from the edge of the bed frame or mattress. This ensures easy reach and prevents the headboard from obstructing the light.
• Headboard Consideration: Ensure the sconce's placement works visually with the height and width of your headboard.
• Swing-Arm Sconces: If you choose a swing-arm style, you have greater flexibility since the light source can be moved. Center the base within the recommended vertical height, and the arm will manage the horizontal reach.

3. Essential Comfort and Control

• Reading Focus: The primary goal is to position the light source to focus illumination on your book or magazine without shining directly into your eyes when seated.
• Switch Placement: The switch or pull chain must be easily reachable from a seated or reclined position in bed. Consider smart bulbs or wall-mounted remote dimmers for maximum convenience.
• Bulb Choice: Use a warmer (2700K–3000K), dimmable LED bulb with a lower wattage to provide soft, comforting light suitable for bedtime.

Where to hang wall sconces in the bedroom?

When hanging wall sconces next to a bed, the magic formula is about 30-36 inches above the top of the mattress. This typically translates to a height of 55-60 inches from the floor. The idea is to have the light source at eye level when you’re sitting up in bed.

Key points to remember:

• Eye Level While Sitting: The sconce should provide functional light without being blinding. Eye level is the sweet spot.
• Distance from the Bed: Keep them no more than a foot away from the bed frame for easy access and optimal lighting.
• Headboard Alignment: Center the sconces on either side of the headboard for a balanced, aesthetically pleasing look. Bonus points if they’re symmetrical!

Source: Rowabi.

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How high to hang wall sconces next to the bed

Now, let’s dive into our main topic: the right way to maximize the functionality of bed wall sconces as well as enhance the aesthetics of your room. It’s not too difficult but needs attention to make it well.

Measurements

• Determine your bed’s height: Beds can range from low-profile to lofty, so start by measuring the height from the floor to the top of the mattress.
• Determine the correct height for sconces by using the 30-36 inch rule above the mattress as a guideline, and adjust it according to your bed’s specific height.

The ideal height

• Standard guidelines: Most designers recommend placing sconces at 55-60 inches from the floor, ensuring the light hits at eye level for an average-height adult.
• Adjust for personal comfort: If you’re on the taller or shorter side, tweak the height slightly to match your comfort level. The goal is to avoid awkward craning or glaring lights.

Source: Rowabi.

Installation tips

1. Mark the chosen height: Use painter’s tape or a pencil to mark the spot where your sconce will sit. Double-check it aligns with your bed’s height.
2. Double-check placement: Hold the sconce in place to visualize how it looks. Better safe than sorry!
3. Identify the stud: Use a stud finder to ensure your sconce has a sturdy anchor.
4. Drill pilot holes: Drill small guide holes to make the installation smoother.
5. Secure the mounting bracket: Attach the bracket to the wall, ensuring it’s level.
6. Connect the wiring: If it’s a hardwired sconce, safely connect the wires. (Pro tip: Always turn off the electricity first.)
7. Fix the sconce in place: Screw the sconce into the mounting bracket, step back, and admire your work!

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FAQs

What if my bed’s height is unconventional? How should I adjust the position of the wall sconce?

• Measure your bed height and adjust the sconce placement so the light source remains at eye level when seated. Flexibility is key!

Can I install more than one wall sconce next to my bed?

• Absolutely! Dual sconces create symmetry and balance, especially in rooms with a larger headboard or shared spaces.

What height should bedside sconces be?

• 55-60 inches from the floor or 30-36 inches above the mattress top is the standard guideline.

Where to place wall sconces beside the bed?

• Position them about 6-18 inches away from the bed frame for convenience and an even glow.

How high to hang wall sconces next to bed DIY?

• Follow the same measurements as above and take extra care with tools and wiring if you’re doing it yourself.

Conclusion

The right wall sconce height can transform your bedroom into a functional, stylish haven. Remember, the goal is to achieve that perfect balance of light and design—eye-level placement, symmetry, and accessibility are the keys.

For the most hassle-free and chic options, check out Rowabi’s lighting collection for practical, trendy, and perfect for nailing this look. Go ahead, light up your life—and your bedtime reads—with confidence!