The Best Nightlights

Were you afraid of the dark when you were a kid? Did the night light in your bedroom keep the boogeyman (lurking under the bed or in the closet) at bay? The designs and uses of night lights have come a long way from the wall socket tiny light of yesteryear. Night lights are now designed for adults including practical and playful usage.

A Little History

Night lights have been used since man discovered fire. Whether in a cave or in the wilderness, campfires and torches provided light in the darkness. Candles and oil lamps were the next evolution in night lighting until electricity. The first electrical night lights were designed as purely functional. Cooking stoves began to have stove top lighting installed that could be used as a kitchen night light. Low wattage bulbs mounted in wall socket plugs were used in children's bedrooms rooms, hallways, and bathrooms. Tabletop lamps were designed with separate lights in their base that could be lit even when the main light was not being used. Today, night lights have evolved into multi-functional products that can entertain as well as being functional.
What's Out There

Night lights are now being designed for every room in the house as well as garage and workshop areas. Some night lights are battery powered which allows them to be portable. Motion sensors and light sensors allow for a hands-off convenience. Some night lights offer audio additions such as ocean wave sounds as well as projecting simulated
underwater ocean waves on the walls and ceiling. Wouldn't this be great while relaxing in a spa? Do you enjoy going to sleep under the stars? There are night lights that turn your ceiling into a view of the constellations and the milky way.
Tabletop Night Lights

Tabletop versions offer many design variations and can be entertaining as well as offer light. These types of lamps are usually located in the bedroom or bath but they can be placed in any room. Tabletop lights may offer conveniences such as a remote control, touch sensor, or motion sensor on/off control. Some can be tilted to adjust light range.
Others offer battery control so they can be portable. These can be used for camping or night hikes to the outhouse. They are great for night fishing. How about using night lights for an evening on the patio or sitting inside a screened-in porch.

Some models feature speakers and a way to plug in your iPod, Smartphone, memory card, or Mp3 player to create a mood or relax. If they have a dimmer, they can be used for reading in bed without disturbing someone else's sleep.

Plug-in Night Lights
Plugins are great if you are moving around the house at night. Many styles come with motion or light sensors. They are very affordable and can be used in every room in the house. You can choose between a functional design or very decorative light cover. Plugin with motion sensors works great in workshops, garages, and wired sheds. Try one on your porch or patio as it can scare away unwanted animals and anything up to mischief. They can be used anywhere an electrical socket is available.

Added Benefits

Night lights are cheaper to use than light bulbs. They use very little electricity and are an alternative to using high wattage light bulbs for lighting.
Pets can benefit also. A night light can comfort a new puppy or a bird in new surroundings.
Going on a trip? Take a plugin for that hotel room or guest quarters. They are great for dorm rooms or vacations. Anywhere you might be staying that is unfamiliar.

Have low ceilings or low clearance at the entrance to a stairwell? A well placed night light can save a headache from occurring at night.
Try a night light under work tables or work benches where the overhead light might not reach. They are used to light up shadowy areas especially where things may fall and be hard to find.
Do you get up at night for a trip to the bathroom? You can purchase a night light that installs under the seat of your toilet. It even has several levels of brightness and 16 color options.

Budget

There are several things to take into consideration when purchasing a night light:

*Where does the night light need to be placed?
*Is there an electric outlet available?
*Would a motion sensor be helpful?
*Do you want it to be decorative as well as functional?
*Did you have a budget in mind?
*Would you like it to be portable?
*Did you only want one light or several for different rooms.

The price range for nightlight varies depending on style, function(s), and manufacturer. Plugins, generally, are less expensive than table top models. The more basic design the night light is, the less expensive it is. Most night lights can be purchased for under $50 and a wide range of designs for under $25. Plugins can be under $5. Warranties vary, so check before you purchase.

To Sum It All Up

Night lights have come a long way from the firelight of the caveman. With safe, easy to use, and affordable designs, there is a night light made for every need imaginable. Determine your need, the right type light for the area, and your budget. Night lights are a fun and practical way to prevent bumped knees and stubbed toes as well as keeping the boogeyman away.

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This page about Nightlight was composed by V. Tobies and published by Alternative.me.
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