Filters
Iron, aluminum and steel
A metal such as iron is very heavy when compared to its size. This can be a positive when forming a base for a lamp, such as a round base or a three legged tripod. Aluminum on the other hand is very light, which is why it's used in some of the slim rechargeable table lamps that can be carried from the kitchen table to the bedside. Stainless steel is also a good metal as it resists rust and can keep a high shine.
Picking a finish
Finish refers to the outer layer of the metal. Chrome and polished silver table lamps reflect the surrounding environment to create a brighter more modern look. Gold toned lamps produce a warmer feel, looking particularly good paired with wood, cream or green painted walls and plants. Black is a more understated option that will allow the shade to be the main feature of the lamp.
When the metal holds something else
You'll also see metal framed table lamps paired with softer materials like glass and paper. Some have a metal stem supporting a glass shade, and there are also metal tripod table lamps paired with rice paper shades. The ones with glass shades can also be found on our glass table lamps page.
Metal shades
A metal shade does not allow light to escape through its sides. The light travels down the inside of the shade and exits from the bottom, so the top of the shade remains in darkness. A polished interior to the metal shade will reflect even more light down on to your books.
How they're powered
Lamps can be plugged in to a wall, powered from a USB socket or have their own rechargeable battery. Note that cordless metal table lamps are also listed on our cordless table lamps page. The power line on the product page says which, where the manufacturer states it.
Looking after metal
Turn the lamp off and let it cool before you clean any marks. For chrome or plated finishes such as gold a soft dry cloth is best, for minor marks a cloth that is just damp can be used and must be dried straight away to prevent any water spots. Avoid using abrasive cleansers or scouring pads as these can scratch the surface of plated finishes.
Where to put one
You can place chrome or silver table lamps in modern living rooms or home offices. Table lamps in a gold finish are perfect for placing on a bedside table or on a console table in a hallway. A slim cordless metal table lamp is also perfect for placing on a dining table or on a bookcase where there is no power outlet. See all our table lamps.































