5 Factors to Consider Before Buying a Flush Mount Ceiling Light

Are you tired of outdated or inadequate lighting fixtures in your home? Every once in a while, I glance around to make sure it feels like our cabin is properly lit and bright enough in all the right places. An easy and efficient solution is to install a flush mount ceiling light. Whether you’re looking for a stylish and modern touch or simply need more functionality, I put together this easy guide to help you select the perfect flush mount ceiling light for any space in your home! Plus, I’ve curated a few ceiling light faves that I’ve noticed from home decor brands lately that are speaking to me.

5 Things to Keep In Mind When Choosing a Flush Mount Ceiling Light

Measure the space and ceiling height

Before purchasing a flush mount ceiling light, it’s important to measure your space and consider the height of your ceiling. This is probably a good rule of thumb for most things in your home, tbh! Measuring the width of the room and the height from floor to ceiling will ensure that you select a fixture that fits well and doesn’t overwhelm the space. For example, if your room is only 10′ wide, I would recommend a ceiling light that isn’t extremely wide because then the proportions could feel off.

Similarly, if your ceilings are low (like in our bedroom above), I recommend selecting a light that is very low profile. Taking into account ceiling height allows you to choose a fixture with an appropriate length or give you an idea if you need to look for one with a low profile if you have low ceilings. If you’re shopping in person, save these measurements to your phone so that are always with you while shopping. We love making informed decisions and avoiding unnecessary returns!

Shop the Post: Minimalist Flush Mount Lights

Determine the style that fits your decor

When selecting a flush mount ceiling light, it’s crucial in my opinion to consider your existing decor and choose a style that complements it. From modern and sleek to traditional, minimalist, or boho, there are plenty of styles to choose from.

I also believe that it is essential to take into account the finishes and colors already in your room when selecting a fixture so that it doesn’t clash with other design elements in the space. For example, when I chose the flush mount light fixture for our cabin bedroom, I chose a satin black finish because it was similar to the stove we use for heat. Visual consistency helps your mind feel cozy and calm in a space!

Similarly, keep in mind that if you’re unsure about which style would go best or have trouble visualizing how a certain fixture may look in your home, many retailers offer virtual room visualization tools to give you an idea of what different fixtures will look like in your space. There are also TONS of interior design tricks that you can try to help make a selection like Photoshop or Canva!

Shop the Post: Mixed Material Flush Mount Lights

Assess the brightness level you need for the room

One of the most important factors to consider when buying a flush mount ceiling light is the level of brightness you need for the room. Admittedly, this is something I struggle with (what even IS a lumen) and is a point of contention in our household. For example, Sean wants our house to literally be as bright as an operating room and I prefer a cozier, more romantic vibe.

While choosing the right color temperature and brightness is very much a personal choice, there are still a few parameters to keep in mind. first, consider the size of the space as well as its intended purpose when selecting a fixture. For example, if it’s a small dining room, dimmer lights create an intimate atmosphere. On the other hand, a kitchen or office require brighter lighting to keep things bright and functional.

It’s also important to consider the type of bulb that will work best for your needs, whether it’s LED, halogen or incandescent bulbs. Remember that higher wattage doesn’t always mean brighter light, so be sure to research and compare different bulb types before making your decision. Sarah from Room for Tuesday write this incredibly helpful guide that I constantly refer back to!

Choose the right color temperature for the mood

In addition to the level of brightness, another important factor to consider when buying a flush mount ceiling light is the color temperature. Color temperature refers to the appearance of light and can range from warm yellow tones (also known as “soft white”) to cooler blue tones (also known as “daylight” or “cool white”).

The color temperature you choose can greatly affect the mood and feel of a room. For example, warm yellow tones are often used in living rooms and bedrooms for a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cooler blue tones are preferred in kitchens and workspaces for a crisp and energizing effect. Be sure to consider the intended purpose and desired ambiance of your space when selecting the color temperature for your flush mount ceiling light.

Shop the Post: Brass Flush Mount Lights

Select energy-efficient options to save on electricity costs

And lastly, another important factor to consider when buying a flush mount ceiling light is its energy efficiency. Electricity where we live is wildly expensive so I’m always on the hunt for ways to reduce our bill, including changing our bulbs. I recommend shopping for options that have the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates that they meet certain energy efficiency standards set by the EPA.

As much as I love the warm glow of traditional incandescent bulbs, we’re making the switch to warm LED bulbs for even more energy savings. I didn’t realize that LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lighting! Plus, they produce less heat, making them a safer and more eco-friendly option. The technology has come a long ways so you can definitely achieve that cozy, warm glow with an LED bulb now.

Photography & styling by Jojotastic.