Measure the available surface before comparing lamps. Overall height becomes important beneath shelving, while the base footprint and shade width determine how much room remains for books, ornaments or other everyday items.

The product details state if the shade and bulb are included. Separate bulbs are available in our LED light bulbs collection. The wider table lamps range includes ceramic, metal, wood and other finishes for comparison.

Clear, smoked, ribbed, cut and coloured glass each create a different effect. In some lamps, glass forms the main base. Other designs pair it with metalwork, a fabric shade or a smaller glass shade surrounding the bulb.

A clear base can make a sizeable lamp appear less imposing on a small table. Cut and ribbed surfaces add texture, while smoked or deeper-coloured glass stands out more strongly. If dark metalwork is more important to your scheme than the glass itself, see our black table lamps.

Look at the footprint first. A narrow glass base table lamp preserves space for books and other items on a bedside table. Broader bases need more room and are generally better suited to sideboards, deep side tables and wide consoles.

Transparency also changes the appearance of the lamp. Hollow and clear bases expose more of the central stem and fittings, whereas coloured, textured and cut glass conceals more of the internal structure. The product information will confirm if the lamp comes complete or requires a separate shade,

A ribbed glass table lamp has raised or moulded lines across the surface of its base or shade. Light and reflections catch along these lines, producing more texture than plain glass even when the lamp is switched off.

The ribbing can be fine and closely spaced or deeper and more pronounced. Close-up product images give the best indication of the finish, particularly on smoked and coloured glass.

Clear glass exposes more of the stem, cable and internal metalwork. Smoked glass introduces a grey or brown tint. Coloured bases are available in shades such as amber, blue and green.

When glass is confined to the base, its tint mainly changes the appearance of the lamp. The bulb and shade have a much greater influence on the amount and direction of light.

For stained glass table lamps made from individually joined pieces of coloured glass, visit our Tiffany lighting collection.

Compact models leave room on a bedside table or desk. Taller lamps add height to a console, while broader designs are better proportioned for sideboards and substantial living room furniture. A matching pair can also frame a bed, sofa or fireplace.

More specific selections are available under bedside lamps, desk lamps and living room lighting.

Not always. Some products include the base, shade and electrical fitting, while others are sold as a base only. The product name and specifications will make this clear.

A base-only lamp allows you to select the shade colour, material and dimensions separately. Check the required fitting and recommended size before choosing from our lampshades.

Unplug the lamp and allow the bulb to cool. A soft, dry microfibre cloth will remove everyday dust. Fingerprints on plain glass can be wiped with a lightly dampened cloth if the manufacturer’s instructions allow it, then dried immediately.

Do not spray cleaning products directly onto the lamp or use abrasive cloths. Painted, coloured and decorated glass may have separate care requirements, so follow the instructions supplied with the product.