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Renewed Interest: Crystal Light Fixtures for 2012

January 27th, 2012

In 2012, we’re starting to see a resurgence of certain items as people start to reincorporate the “finer things in life” into their homes and their lives. Crystal light fixtures are no exception, as they’re perhaps one of the quickest and easiest ways to make a grand statement in any room. Here’s the low down on what to look for with a crystal light fixture.

What is Crystal, Anyway?

Crystal

The vast majority of people recognize a single difference between glass and crystal: the amount of lead present. Crystal can have as much as 40 percent lead, though the United States will classify anything with more than 1% lead in it as “crystal.” In Europe, however, the number is higher at a minimum of around 3% lead. Crystal that contains a minimum of 30 percent lead is typically referred to as “leaded crystal.”

Crystal Light Fixtures

Typically, the more lead present in the crystal, the more weight it has and the more easy it is to cut or engrave. This is why crystal is more desirable for certain items, including light fixtures such as chandeliers.

Where Can I Find Crystal Light Fixtures?

Crystal Light Fixture

Fortunately, crystal is not a hard-to-come-by material. You will find that crystal light fixtures tend to fall into various design categories, such as the contemporary category. However, there are also crystal light fixtures that may be deemed as “traditional,” “romantic,” “classic” and so forth.

That being said, you may find crystal light fixtures at a variety of locations including warehouse stores, home improvement retailers and various home decor stores. However with home decor stores, you will need to find stores that cater to your style in order to find the right crystal light fixtures for your home.

Crystal Light Fixture

Of course, don’t forget that there are also a plethora of online retailers that carry crystal light fixtures, from table lamps to chandeliers, floor lamps to wall sconces, ceiling lights and so forth. You should be able to find something that suits your tastes, is the right size and hopefully, suits your budget.

How Do I Maintain My New Crystal Light Fixture?

Maintaining a crystal light fixture simply means keeping up on cleaning. To start, shut off electricity to the fixture and allow the bulbs to fully cool.

You can opt to either purchase a special crystal cleansing solution, or you can simply use a mild soap and warm water mixture. Using your chosen cleansing solution, you will want to spray the solution directly onto the crystal. If there is any chance that the solution will enter the socket, then you’ll want to spray it directly onto your clean, lint-free white towel and then use the towel to clean the dirt off the crystal (rather than spraying the solution directly onto the light fixture).

Using your clean towel, clean the fixture thoroughly. You may need multiple towels to fully clean the fixture.

It is recommended that you clean a crystal light fixture twice yearly to prevent excessive dirt, debris and dust build-up from occurring. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Let interiors gleam with the dazzle of crystal and find the perfect light fixture at Arcadian Lighting!

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2012 Lighting Trends: Learning to Layer

January 26th, 2012

If anything, the recent economic downturn has taught many of us one simple way to save our hard earned dollars: do it yourself. DIY is no new concept, but it’s also one that many of us are relearning and while you might think that lighting and light fixtures are best left to the professionals, that’s actually not entirely true. While you probably shouldn’t go about rewiring your home, there’s no reason you can’t teach yourself how to create an elegant and modern layered lighting scheme. Besides, for 2012: layering is in.

Layering Lighting

How To Guides: Learning to Layer Lighting

Fortunately, learning to layer your lighting isn’t as difficult as it sounds. If you start small and work you way through things, you can do it. To do this, you need to learn about the different areas of lighting and light fixtures in the home. Before you do this, however, be sure that your room is complete: fully decorated. This way, when you start working with your lighting, you’ll know exactly how it will look rather than having to readjust the lighting once everything has been brought into the room.

Layering Lighting

General lighting is key and the area you should start with first. It’s typically regarded as a single light fixture on the ceiling, such as a flush mount or semi flush mount ceiling light. This is the type of lighting that the vast majority of people use on a day to day basis, they flip the switch to ‘on’ and go about their day.

Layering Lighting

Once you’ve got your general lighting down, it’s time to start the actual process of layering. The first area you should stop and look at task lighting. Task lighting is the lighting you would use when performing focused tasks, such as reading a book in a comfortable chair in the living room or chopping vegetables on your kitchen countertops. Light fixtures that work great for this particular layer of lighting include table lamps or floor lamps, under cabinet lights, pendant lights for over kitchen islands and so forth.

When working on this particular area, stop and ask yourself who does what, where, how often, and would they benefit from a bit of extra light? This will help you figure out where you need to place your task lighting.

Layering Lighting

Once your task lighting is in place, you can move on to the next two stages: accent lighting and decorative lighting. Though they may sound similar, they are actually two different lighting concepts. Accent lighting is used to highlight certain areas, such as an architectural feature like a fireplace. This could be a wall sconce flanking a fireplace, or perhaps a doorway or large picture window.

Layering Lighting

Decorative lighting, on the other hand, is purely decorative. It does not highlight or accentuate anything. It is there purely for decorative purposes, not for use. This can include tiny accent lamps or other decorative light fixtures. Just be wary not to confuse decorative lighting with how the light fixtures themselves look, as a chandelier may be elegant and decorative, but it can be used for task lighting and for general lighting and thus, is certainly not a decorative light.

Once you’ve learned the different layers of light, it becomes significantly easier to go through and recreate a layered lighting look in your own home. Layering may sound difficult, but it doesn’t have to be! Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Make sure to grab some pendant lights and start layering the lighting in your own home.

 

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What is Accent Lighting?

January 25th, 2012

Accent lighting actually got its start as a type of luxury lighting for interior spaces, particularly in hotels, restaurants and certain corporate locations. Today, accent lighting has expanded from these spaces and into the homes of people all over the United States. So, if you’ve ever been in a home improvement store, you know that there are hundreds, if not thousands, of different light fixtures to choose from. There are overhead ceiling lights, table lamps, outdoor lights and even light fixtures that you’re not quite sure what their purpose may be. There are lights for ambient lighting, architectural lighting, task lighting and accent lighting. But what exactly is accent lighting and do you need it for your home?

What is Accent Lighting?

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting includes any type of directional lighting or other lighting type that creates interest or highlights a feature or area in an individual room or space. Accent lighting may also be referred to as decorative lighting. However, decorative lighting can also be referred to as light fixtures that are decorative in nature and draw attention to themselves, such as chandeliers.

Accent Lighting

Typically, accent lighting is used to highlight items such as a painting or a sculpture. It can also be used to bring attention to other decorative items in the room or architectural elements of the home, such as a fireplace.

Types of accent light fixtures include track lights, recessed lights or wall sconces.

Where Should I Place Accent Light Fixtures?

Accent Lighting

As noted earlier, accent lights can be used to highlight specific prized possessions. For example, you could use track lights or recessed lights in your living room to highlight pieces of artwork. You can also use track lights or recessed lights to highlight a fireplace.

Accent Lighting

Accent light fixtures can also be used to highlight other spaces in your home as well. Consider using accent lighting to highlight your kitchen cabinetry or perhaps some bookshelves in your home office.

Other options include using wall sconces to highlight doorways or archways in your home, as well as foyers, hallways or other entryways.

Accent Lighting

Remember that these light fixtures can come in a number of different sizes, shapes and colors, so be sure to choose the options that best compliment the room’s decor. For example, a modern wall sconce would look completely out of place in a Victorian styled living room, but would work well in contemporary, modern or in some instances, traditionally decorated rooms. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Want even more light? Check out our large selection of wall lamps to illuminate the rest of your space!

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Decorating With Lamps

January 24th, 2012

Everyone loves a shapely lamp with a wonderful finish. It doesn’t matter if it serves as a bathroom light, illumination for the bedroom, or even a quirky kitchen light, lamps are one decorating item that follows form and function! Lamps are light fixtures that can be placed on a side table, a desk or any flat surface to bring light to a dark corner, or to add light when you need it for reading, crafts or for a quiet evening of popcorn and moving-watching. They can be found at any home goods store, but also at antique marts and lighting stores as well.

A fabulous way to decorate with a set of lamps is to flank a desk with them:

Decorating with Lamps

If you don’t have room for an office, but need a space that functions like an office, consider using your dining room table. It’s the lamps that make it a desk.

Need a little light in the kitchen? Consider one on the kitchen island:

Decorating with Lamps

This bright lamp makes a bold statement in an otherwise neutral environment and brings a vibrant color to this sink area. What a great idea when you are entertaining for the weekend and you are worried that your guests won’t be able to see in the dark when they go for that second plate of late-night leftovers. Lamps have more character than, say, pendant lights.

The lamp in the foyer is always a staple in any home, but that doesn’t mean it has to be plain and boring:

Decorating with Lamps

This lamp is made of a natural antler and has unique interest. It works in this space because the vignette shows a natural table and an elegant wallcovering behind it. If one were to describe this lamp, it might be the same words – natural and elegant. Images 1 | 2 | 3

For more wonderful lighting fixture options, check out our versatile inventory today!

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Posh Pendants

January 23rd, 2012

Pendant lighting is light that hangs from overhead. Pendants are popular as kitchen lights, bathroom lights and can even be found hanging above nightstands in master bedrooms. Whether made of blown glass, porcelain or another material, lighting fixtures in general can be a work of art in itself. We found some pendant lights that are just that in fact:

Porcelain Pendant Light

Porcelain Pendant

This porcelain pendant, in black and white, almost looks like leather. The seams of this lighting fixture, and the cut outs, really lend an elegant look to a simple silhouette. The white of this fixture would look fantastic in a powder bath, hovering above a porcelain sink, or above a kitchen sink that is placed in front of a scenic window.

Glass Pendant Light

Glass Pendant

The glass on this pendant light is mesmerizing. Perhaps it is the shape of the light tube inside, or the uniqueness of the pendant itself, but this would be a wonderful lighting fixture, hanging in threes, above a kitchen counter. This pendant light could work in a classic traditional space, or one with a slightly modern edge.

Natural Looking Pendant Light

Natural Looking Pendant

These amazing large pendant lights look natural and carefree. They are elegant, but not pretentious because of their natural color. Notice how the light, shining through the shade, casts beautiful shadows and light on the adjacent wall?

Wood Hanging Light

Wood Hanging Light

A great way to bring the outdoors in, without going overboard on the green, is through this hanging light fixture. In fact, this hanging lamp is actually made of 56 maple wood “scales” that cast a soft glow of light beneath. You might also consider wall sconce or wall lamps for a similar effect.

Paper Hanging Light

Paper Hanging Light

And this one, another DIY’ers dream, is made of paper. In fact, remember those little finger papers called “fortune tellers” you used to play with back in grade school? This lighting fixture could be made large-scale or small, depending on the space. Yes, another great hanging light fixture for almost anywhere. Images 1| 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Now wouldn’t you like to get creative with innovative lighting fixtures to boost your home? No Problem! Arcadian Lighting has a great selection to explore.

 

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How To Guides: Light Fixtures That Multitask

January 20th, 2012

Whether you’ve got a small space or you just want a smarter space, investing in light fixtures that multitask is a great way to do both. Multitasking is no new concept, especially for the modern homes of today. Unfortunately, it can be a bit difficult to determine what types of light fixtures classify as “multitasking” and which ones are just, well, there. Here’s a guide on how to find and utilize light fixtures for multitasking lighting needs.

Light Fixtures that Multitask in the Kitchen

Under Cabinet Lighting

The perfect example of a multitasking light fixture in the kitchen is the under cabinet light. These light fixtures, when switched on, are great for task lighting. You can use them while cutting vegetables or doing other prep work for your meals, making them extra desirable, especially if you don’t have an island to work on. When you’re not using them as task lighting, you can easily use them for ambient lighting to add to the warm glow of your kitchen space with no extra work needed.

Pendant Lighting

Another great example is recessed lighting or the pendant light, especially if chosen right. Recessed lights, when positioned properly, can double as task lighting and as general lighting. Meanwhile, pendant lights with shades that allow them to diffuse light (rather than focus it in a general area) can be used for – you guessed it – general lighting and task lighting.

Multipurpose Bathroom Lighting

Bathroom Wall Sconce

The bathroom can be a particularly tricky area to work in, but once you know a few tricks, it’s easy to find light fixtures that multitask. For example, take the wall sconce. You might not have even thought to utilize wall sconces in your bathroom, but they can serve multiple purposes. When positioned on either side of a large mirror, they can help create additional task lighting. When the mirror isn’t in use, they’re also great for creating additional general lighting.

Other Multipurpose Light Fixtures for the Home

Bedroom Sconce

As you may have figured out by now, wall sconces are a great multipurpose light. You can install them in the bedroom instead of bedside lamps, allowing them to double for late night tasks such as reading, as well as being great for creating additional general light in the space. Plus, they save valuable floor space or nightstand space in a small room. This same concept can also be applied to the living room.

Floor Lamp

At the same time, don’t forget about the other light fixtures in your home. For example, a well placed floor lamp, such as next to an arm chair, can easily double not only as general lighting, but can make a great light for tasks such as reading or knitting while using the chair.

In short, the trick is to find light fixtures that you can use for task lighting but that can also be used for general lighting in the space. It’s not necessarily about the type of light fixture you choose, so much as it is about how you use that fixture. Just because it’s a lamp doesn’t mean you can utilize it in multiple ways! Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Start your search for multipurpose lighting fixtures at Arcadian Lighting and enjoy perusing the variety of gorgeous interior lighting options!

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Portable Lighting: The Basics of Lamps

January 19th, 2012

Many people assume that a lamp is a lamp, but there are a surprising number of different types of lamps out there. These light fixtures serve a variety of purposes, despite the fact that they are all classified as a single type of fixture. Here are the basics of lamps, the different varieties and their purposes so that you can be sure you’re choosing the right lamps for your space.

Lamp Basics

Lamps: “Portable Lighting”

All lamps are defined as “portable lighting.” This is because these are light fixtures that you can pick up and move around on a whim if needed. For example, if you rearrange your living room, you can move your table lamps or floor lamps around, as well as any other plug-in light fixtures, but you cannot move around any hard-wired light fixtures such as recessed lights or ceiling lights.

Note: typically interior designers and other lighting professionals refer to lamps as “portables.”

Lamp Basics

That being said, despite all being categorized as the same item, each of these items are unique in their purpose and overall design. For example, table lamps and floor lamps are both lamps but they do feature the same style. One is meant to sit on the floor and features a taller base to give it more height than a table lamp. However, floor lamps and torchieres are the same in style but are still two different types of lamps.

Different Types of Lamps

Lamp Basics

Let’s start with the basics. There are two types of “floor lamps.” It can be difficult to understand but all torchieres are a type of floor lamp, though not all floor lamps can be considered torchieres. These particular lights are the lamps that direct light upward toward the ceiling. Floor lamps that diffuse light or direct light downward are simply “floor lamps” and not “torchieres.”

Lamp Basics

Next, table lamps, desk lamps, piano lamps and every other variety of lamp all typically serve a specific purpose. Table lamps can be used for additional ambient lighting in a room, but they can also be used for various tasks. Meanwhile, lamps such as desk lamps or piano lamps are made for specific tasks such as working at your desk or playing the piano.

Lamp Basics

Finally, there are also armed lamps. Armed lamps are any of the above that feature a moveable arm in which you can move around to direct light where it is needed without having to move the base of the light fixture. These particular lamps come in a variety of styles from table lamps to large floor lamps, desk or wall lamps.

Despite popular misconceptions, not all lamps are created equal. Though they are all categorized as ‘lamps,’ there are actually a number of different sub categories and this is just looking at the fixtures themselves. Add in the different styles of shades, light bulbs and so forth and you could spend months learning about all the different terms associated with portable lighting. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Now that you have a better understanding of lamps, are you ready to enhance your home decor? Don’t forgot to grab one of our great pendant lights to help compliment your lamp choice.

 

 

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Precautions for Broken Light Bulbs

January 18th, 2012

We’ve all been there: a broken bulb in one of our light fixtures. Sometimes it happens and when it does, it can be dangerous trying to remove it. Fortunately, with a few tips and tricks, anyone can remove a broken light bulb. Here are a few precautions for broken bulbs.

Precautions for Broken Light Bulbs

Light Bulb

It is worth noting that light fixtures that use compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL) contain a small amount of mercury. When the bulb breaks, whether it’s because the lamp broke or something hit the light fixture, this mercury gets released into the surrounding area. Despite this fact, it is important to remember that CFL bulbs do not contain enough mercury to have an adverse effect on human health. However, it is still important to take great care when removing and replacing a broken or damaged CFL bulb.

Light Bulb

When cleaning up a broken CFL, whether it’s from a pendant light or table lamp, use a piece of stiff cardboard to pick up the glass pieces and powder. Seal these remnants into a zippered plastic bag or a glass jar with lid before disposal. Next, use a piece of sticky tape (duct tape, packing tape, et cetera) to pick up the remaining pieces of glass and remaining powder. Finally, wipe the area using a damp paper towel or a disposal wet cloth. Do not use a vacuum or broom, as this will only cause the remnants of mercury to remain in your home.

Light Bulb

If electricity is still on, shut it off before attempting to remove the base of the light bulb from the light fixture. To remove the light bulb from the socket of the light fixture, use a potato! Cut the potato in half and insert the sliced side into the broken CFL bulb. Twist gently and remove. Never, ever use tools or your hands to remove a broken light bulb from a light fixture!

Never, ever pick up the pieces using your bare hands and be sure to wash your hands following clean up and removal of a broken CFL bulb.

Light Bulb

The potato method can also be used for other types of broken light bulbs, including traditional incandescent bulbs in ceiling lights, halogen bulbs and other light bulbs. If necessary, allow the area to cool off prior to trying to remove the broken light bulb from the light fixture to prevent injury.

Finally, if possible, always wear protective eye gear to clean up and remove light bulbs. Avoid touching your hands or face while dealing with the broken glass, as you could accidentally get a small shard into your eye and cause unintentional damage. Safety first, as with any type of broken glass object!

Light Fixture

Broken light bulbs of different varieties can contain different materials, such as CFL bulbs containing mercury. Therefore, always take additional safety precautions such as the ones mentioned when cleaning up a broken bulb, especially if you are unsure of what it contains. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Since a broken light bulb can be easily removed with these tips, why not add even more beautiful light fixtures to your space? Check out our selection of lovely wall lamps!

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What Does “Color” Mean in Lighting?

January 17th, 2012

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably picked up a light bulb at your local retailer and noticed it lists a “coloring,” “color temperature,” “CRI” or “color rendering” on it. So what exactly does this mean? Coloring of a light can have a big impact, not only on your light fixtures, but also on the rest of the decor on your home. Here’s the low down on light coloring for light bulbs.

What Do All These Terms Mean, Anyway?

CRI Lighting

“Coloring,” “color temperature,” or “color rendering” all refer to the different concepts with the light when the light bulb is installed in a light fixture and switched on. Typically the colors are cool, warm or somewhat neutral.

There is also the CRI Index, or “Color Rendering Index.” For the Color Rendering Index, the rule of thumb is the higher the number, the better the color rendering. For example, a ceiling light that uses a light bulb with a CRI of 90 or more will have better color rendering than a ceiling light that uses a light bulb with a CRI of 70 or 80. Color rendering refers to how accurate the color will be when this particular light bulb is turned on without taking into account the effects that different shades on light fixtures will have on the color rendering of the bulb.

CRI Lighting

However, do note that the CRI index is different than color temperature, which can make this concept a bit confusing.

CRI Lighting

Color temperature refers to the light color that is perceived by the human eye. For example, if the color temperature of the bulb is listed at 3000 to 3500, it will produce a whiter light than a light bulb that has a color temperature of 2700, which is more yellow in coloring. The color temperature of daylight is usually between 5000 and 7000.

CRI Lighting

If you are looking to add more warm lighting to your space with your light fixtures, you’ll want to opt for a light bulb that lists a color temperature range of 2700 to 2800. This is pretty typical for the incandescent light bulb, which many people feel produces the warmest, most flattering light. For a cleaner, whiter light, opt between 3000 and 3500 and for a bluer toner, look for at least 4000. If you want your fixtures, such as pendant lights, to recreate the effects of natural daylight, opt for a color temperature of at least 5000 but no more than 7000.

CRI Lighting

In short, color rendering and color temperature are not the same concepts. A color temperature does not guarantee the color rendering of surrounding objects when that light bulb is installed in a light fixture and turned on. Just as a color rendering can vary based on the color temperature of the bulb. Light coloring is a science and it may take a few tries to achieve the desired effect if you’re still unsure of what light bulbs you should use in your light fixtures. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Now that you know the proper definition of color lighting, check out our wonderful array of cool, warm, and neutral lighting fixtures today!

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Modern Lighting Trends: Fixtures with Slim Lines

January 16th, 2012

Many Americans are coming back into a state where they can afford to start spending money on other items, such as home updates. Light fixtures are a great option for updating a space while still being wary and cautious of overspending. Fortunately, lighting trends for 2012 feature a look that will be worth the money and last for several years, so you can enjoy without feeling guilty over any money you’ve spent.

Light Fixtures with Slim Lines

Clean Floor Lamp

For 2012, look for light fixtures that feature clean, slim lines. Bases that consist of a single center rod on table lamps and floor lamps are a great example. You can find this basic style with a clean drum shade for a modern, updated look that will compliment a number of decors. Plus, a variety of finishes, from brushed nickel hues to warm bronze hues, exist. This makes it incredibly easy to blend this style in with a variety of decor styles from contemporary to traditional.

Slim Modern Light Fixtures

Light Fixture

Of course, slim lines don’t have to be straight, either. The key look is “slim,” not “straight,” so keep this in mind as you browse light fixtures that will compliment your space and your style. This is especially true of fixtures such as table lamps or kitchen lights. Furthermore, one’s definition of “slim” can vary from person to person. 2011 was all about large bulky glass blown lamps and other light fixtures, so by those standards, anything that is slimmer will be the right look for this style.

Use Fluid, Organic Lines

Organic Lighting Fixture

Another popular trend for 2012 will be the use of more fluid, organic lines. Fixtures that feature subtle curves are key and this particular look will easily compliment a variety of decor styles, so don’t be afraid to stray from the “straight and narrow” path to a more fluid, organic look for your lamps and other light fixtures.

Pendant Lights with a Clean Look

Clean Pendant Light

For pendant lights, look for clean looks: fluid, contemporary shapes with clean curves. You can opt for pendant lights that hang from a wire or pendant lights that feature a stem, as both of these types will easily blend in with this trend.

Variety of Drum Shades Styles

Drum Shade Styles

For shades, look for the drum shade shape which will continue to remain popular well into 2012 and beyond. The clean lines and curvy shape are complimented by a variety of colors and styles, so it’s impossible not to find the right shade for any given light fixture whether it’s lamps, ceiling fixtures or even chandeliers.

2012 is all about clean lines and organic, fluid curves. People feel safe investing in this style because no matter what their decor style may be, these lines always seem to blend in. So if you’ve got a traditional space or a modern space, a classic and romantic space or an eclectic space, the slim lines, organic shapes will work wonders. Plus, with a variety of finishes to choose from, you’ll find that finding the right light fixtures for your space is quick and easy, no matter what your style is. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Give your home decor a new touch up and get inspired by the great selection of lighting fixtures at Arcadian Lighting!

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Lamp Recycling and What To Do With Broken Lamps

January 13th, 2012

We’ve all been there: the light goes out, we unscrew the bulb from the light fixture (after we’ve accidentally burned our fingers because we forgot to let it cool) and then we toss it into the trash without thinking twice. Unfortunately, the modern light bulbs of today, particularly the compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs, contain small amounts of mercury that gets released into the environment when we throw them into the garbage (and they subsequently break open from being crushed under the weight of other garbage). So, what do you do with broken CFL light bulbs and other spent light bulbs when your light fixtures go dark?

How Much Mercury?

Lightbulb

It is worth noting that the actual mercury content of the CFL bulb is relatively low: less than 4 milligrams, which is just enough to cover the tip of a pen. Despite this, as more people turn to CFL bulbs and eventually throw them out when they get spent, this mercury builds up.

What Should I Do With Used CFL Bulbs and Other Light Bulbs?

Light Bulb

Currently, there are a few retail locations at which you can drop off your used CFL light bulbs. This includes Home Depot, which started a CFL recycling program for used CFL bulbs. Home Depot will take any brand of CFL, from any type of indoor or outdoor lighting fixtures, so you can be confident in recycling your spent bulbs at this particular location. Other stores that accept used CFL bulbs for recycling include Orchard Supply Hardware stores in California, Ace Hardware, TrueValue, Menards and Aubuchon Hardware as well as IKEA furniture stores.

Currently, some states offer free collection programs, though you will need to check with your local government for exact information on where to recycle your used CFL bulbs.

Light Bulb

For other types of used or broken light bulbs such as incandescent or halogen, check with your local government for more information on who will take and recycle your specific type.

What if My Light Bulb is Broken?

Light Bulb

If your light bulbs broke while still in the lamps or other light fixtures, you’ll need to take precautions when cleaning them up. This is especially true of CFL bulbs, which as noted earlier, contain small amounts of mercury. Do not use a vacuum or broom to clean up a broken CFL bulb, but rather use tape to pick up the pieces and dust. Dispose of the filled tape in a sealed plastic or glass container, then use a damp, disposable cloth to blot, not rub, the area to remove any remaining mercury.

Light Bulb

To remove the base of the broken bulb from the light fixture socket, you can use a potato! Slice the potato in half and insert the sliced half directly onto the broken portion. Then, twist gently to remove. You should remove the broken portion from the socket and then re-clean the surrounding area to ensure no further contamination has occurred. This method can also be used for other types of light bulbs, including traditional incandescent bulbs, halogen and more. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

After cleaning up broken fragments, find stylish new lighting fixtures that will brighten up any room in your home!

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2012 Lighting Trends: Floral Inspired Lighting

January 12th, 2012

When it comes to light fixtures, 2012 is all about natural influences: flowers and lots of them! It’s no new concept for nature to be infused in interior design, but the concept of using floral-inspired light fixtures is a relatively new look in recent years. Here’s the low down on floral-inspired fixtures for your space.

Full-on Floral

Floral Inspired Lighting

Depending on your budget, you may be able to invest in light fixtures that replicate an authentic look of a large, blossoming flower. Full blossoming flowers look great as ceiling light fixtures and thanks to the their natural look, will blend in with a variety of decors from contemporary and modern to warm and traditional. Plus, when you have light fixtures custom made for your space, you can choose colors that will compliment your color scheme for a cohesive look. Opt for neutral tones, such as off whites, as these will blend best and continue to be useable even if you change your color scheme over the years.

Floral Inspired Lighting

Table Lamps

Another great option, table lamps that feature a blooming flower look can easily blend in with a variety of spaces. There are a plethora of options when it comes to this style, from Tiffany style pieces that feature tulips to modern table lamps that recreate the look of a calla lily and so forth.

Floral Inspired Lighting

With these light fixtures, you can go a bit more daring. Opt for hues that compliment your color scheme, though don’t necessarily go with neutral tones. Reds, blues and purples are all great colors and there is a shade out there to compliment every color scheme. Keep your eyes open!

Materials to Look Out For

Floral Inspired Lighting

When shopping for this style, there are two main materials that you should keep an eye out for: glass and fabric. Fabric shades may look more realistic, but glass shades will be more eye-catching and visually stunning.

Be wary of paper-based light fixtures (unless the fixture features an LED light that produces little to no heat,) as these fixtures can be serious fire hazards. Remember, cheap doesn’t always mean good quality and paper lanterns where the bulb is too close to the paper can be a serious risk for you and your family, no matter how pretty the light fixture looks!

Floral Inspired Lighting

Ceramic bases, wrought iron bases will be easy to come across and can be made to mimic a realistic look or a purely decorative look for your chosen pendant light. Other materials to look for include art glass shades, natural cut stone shades (think Tiffany style) and so forth.

Keep in mind that this is a trend and it is one that may not last very long, a few years at best. Try to avoid investing in floral fixtures that are extremely costly, especially if you are a person who likes to routinely update your space. Opt for pieces that are fun and functional but can also be swapped out with little guilt or regret over the price when you desire a new look. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Are you ready to put some floral inspired lighting in your own home? Don’t forgot about your bathroom and check out our great collection of bathroom light fixtures.

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