What Makes Decorative Incandescent Bulbs Special?

Incandescent bulbs have been around for over a century, yet they remain a favourite for homeowners and designers. Here’s why:

Are Decorative Incandescent Bulbs Still Legal in the UK?

There’s often confusion around incandescent bulbs in the UK. While it’s true that standard, high-wattage household incandescents were phased out due to energy regulations, decorative incandescent bulbs are still perfectly legal to buy and use.

They fall into a specialist category, making them widely available for UK homes. You can find them online in single packs or multipacks, often at affordable prices.

Choosing the Right Bulb

Not sure which bulb is right for you? Here’s what to consider:

Where Can You Use Them?

One of the biggest advantages of decorative incandescents is their versatility. Here’s how to make the most of them in your home:

Living Rooms & Dining Areas

Set the tone for relaxation with warm, amber lighting. Filament bulbs in a chandelier or over a dining table are a classic choice to create a welcoming, cosy atmosphere.

Bedrooms & Kitchens

For a calm environment, opt for frosted incandescent bulbs in bedside lamps. In the kitchen, pendant lights fitted with these bulbs can become a focal point, especially above an island.

Hallways & Accent Lighting

Make a strong first impression with soft, decorative lighting in an entryway, or use them in desk lamps and wall sconces to create cosy, atmospheric pockets of light.

Can You Dim Decorative Incandescent Bulbs?

Yes — and this is one of their greatest advantages. Incandescent bulbs naturally dim smoothly without flickering. As you dim them, the light becomes not just softer but warmer in tone, shifting towards amber or orange for a truly intimate atmosphere. All you need is a standard incandescent-compatible dimmer switch.

Energy Efficiency & Modern Alternatives

It’s no secret that incandescent bulbs are less energy-efficient than LEDs. But if you love the look and feel, there’s good news: LED filament bulbs mimic the design and glow of traditional incandescents while being far more energy-efficient.

• Use up to 80% less energy.
• Last much longer.
• Are available in warm white tones that closely match incandescents.
• Offer “warm dimming” technology to replicate the incandescent colour shift.

This makes LED filament bulbs an excellent eco-friendly alternative for those who want style without sacrificing efficiency.

Safety Tips

While incandescent bulbs are safe, here are a few tips to ensure best use:

• Switch off the power before changing a bulb.
• Let bulbs cool before handling — they get hot quickly.
• Don’t exceed the fixture's maximum wattage.
• Avoid bathrooms unless using fixtures with appropriate IP ratings.

Incandescent Bulbs vs Other Lighting