How High to Hang Wall Sconces Next to Bed: The Complete Guide to Perfect Placement

When it comes to designing a cozy, stylish, and functional bedroom, lighting plays a crucial role—especially bedside lighting. One of the most elegant and space-saving choices for bedside lighting is wall sconces. But a common question arises: how high to hang wall sconces next to bed? The answer may vary depending on a few factors, but fear not! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to achieve perfect sconce placement.

Why Wall Sconces Are a Brilliant Choice for the Bedroom

Before we jump into the specifics of how high to hang wall sconces next to bed, let’s talk about why you should consider them in the first place.

Wall sconces:

• Save valuable nightstand space.

• Add a stylish, designer touch to your bedroom.

• Provide focused, adjustable lighting for reading or ambiance.

• Create symmetry and visual balance in your room.

They’re practical, beautiful, and a smart solution for both large and small bedrooms. Now, let’s move on to the big question.

General Guideline: How High to Hang Wall Sconces Next to Bed

The rule of thumb is to hang bedside wall sconces approximately 55 to 65 inches from the floor to the center of the sconce. However, this can vary depending on:

• The height of your bed and mattress

• The placement of your nightstands (if any)

• Your personal preferences and habits (like reading in bed)

Pro Tip:

When seated on your bed, the light source should be roughly at eye level. This typically results in a soft, direct light perfect for reading without harsh glares or awkward shadows.

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Perfect Height

1. Measure the Height of Your Bed

Start by measuring from the floor to the top of your mattress. This gives you a baseline to work from. A typical mattress height ranges from 24" to 30", but modern setups may be even taller.

2. Decide the Purpose of Your Wall Sconce

Are you installing sconces mainly for reading, ambient light, or decorative flair? If they are for reading, the height and angle of light matter more.

For reading sconces, the ideal height is where the bulb or shade sits about 6 to 12 inches above your shoulder when sitting up in bed.

3. Consider Adjustability

If your sconces are adjustable (e.g., swing-arm sconces), you have more flexibility with height placement. You can install them a bit higher or lower, depending on the reach and swivel range.

4. Check for Electrical Considerations

If your sconces are hardwired, you’ll need to be sure that your chosen height aligns with the wiring behind your wall. This might influence your height a bit, especially in retrofitted bedrooms.

Common Height Examples

Let’s say your mattress is 28 inches tall. You sit up, and your eye level is around 50 inches from the floor. You’d want the center of the sconce to be at or slightly above that eye level—so approximately 55 to 60 inches high.

This means:

• For shorter beds: 55 inches is a good average.

• For taller beds: 60–65 inches may be more appropriate.

Distance from the Bed

Height isn’t the only factor when it comes to how high to hang wall sconces next to bed. You should also think about how far they should be from the edge of your bed.

• A good rule of thumb is to install sconces 8 to 12 inches from the edge of the headboard or bed frame.

• If you have a wide headboard, measure from the edge of the headboard, not the mattress.

This ensures the light is close enough to use effectively, but not so close that it’s in your way.

Matching Sconces to Your Bedroom Style

Remember that functionality is just one half of the equation. Your sconces should also suit your aesthetic. For instance:

• Modern bedrooms often look great with sleek, metallic sconces.

• Boho or eclectic styles shine with rattan or artisan sconces.

• Traditional or classic designs benefit from brass or antique-inspired fixtures.

Choose sconces that reflect your personal style, but also offer the lighting type you need.

Installing with Confidence

Here’s a quick checklist to follow once you’ve measured:

Final Encouragement

Don’t stress too much over perfection. Everyone’s bedroom is different. Your ideal height might vary by a few inches depending on comfort and preferences. What matters most is how it feels in the room.

Experiment with positioning before drilling any holes. Use painter’s tape or cardboard templates to mock up your sconces' placement. Trust your instincts—you’ll know when it looks and feels right.

Summary

To wrap up, the best placement for how high to hang wall sconces next to bed is:

• 55–65 inches from the floor to the center of the sconce

• About 6–12 inches above your shoulder when seated

• 8–12 inches away from the edge of the bed or headboard

These guidelines are flexible—adjust based on your bed height, lighting needs, and design preferences. With thoughtful placement, wall sconces can truly transform your bedroom into a sanctuary of comfort, beauty, and functionality.

Ready to light up your space? You've got this!

More information: https://www.rowabi.com/blogs/lab-of-wabi-sabi-blogs/how-high-to-hang-wall-sconces-next-to-bed

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