Introduction
LED lights are popular because they are just as bright as bulbs and last virtually forever by using minimal energy. They do not produce much heat, and one can easily control and program them for a variety of uses.
Starting out as exclusively decorative lights, LED strip lights have now become a versatile lighting choice for a variety of scenarios. For your bathroom, there are options which are completely waterproof. For your corridors, you have the choice to mount them onto aluminium panels. You can even use strip lights to highlight your artwork – just opt for a highly flexible variant and shape it to your exact needs.
Before You Buy…
Tips for Brightness and Performance
When buying LED strip lights, it is more important to check the number of lights per meter (or yard or foot) than the total number in the strip. The reason is that if the lights are strung too far apart, the lighting will be diffused and less effective.
With the refinement of technology, the small diodes inside the strips now produce much brighter illumination. But do you always want such bright light? For example, the LED strip lights for signage must necessarily be bright, as much as 500 to 750 lumens. In contrast, just 150 to 250 lumens are adequate for accent lighting. So make sure you select the LED strip lights based on your use. As most reputable manufacturers of LED strip lights list the amount of lumens that their products produce, it’s easy to make an informed decision.
Colour-Changing Options
LED strip lights can change colours and also come in a range of colours. LED strip lights with a single non-changing colour are called non-addressable lights. These are inexpensive and easy to install. Those that change colours consist of two types:
- Non addressable RGB strips
- Addressable RGB strips
Of the two, the second kind is more expensive as they have a small controller that manages each LED individually. Typically, these are preferred for commercial rather than domestic use.
Another type of LED strip light is one that has colour adjustable temperatures. The light appears warm or cold depending on the colour temperature. For example, the bedroom and living rooms require a soft white light that is cool. Bathrooms and outdoor lighting must on the other hand mimic daylight. The term used to rate temperature is Kelvin; a higher Kelvin represents cool colours and a lower Kelvin represents warmer colours. Adjustable temperature LED strips can be very useful for various types of mood lighting.
Note on Installation
Note that not all LED strip lights come with an adhesive backing that you can simply stick to any surface and then plug in. In complex installations, the strips must be cut and programmed, which is a complex procedure. Before you buy the strips, determine the length, the power and voltage, and the need for connectors and programming
Why the Hype?
Gaining more and more popularity with each passing day LED light strips are being lapped up by buyers for residential and commercial applications alike. The primary reason behind their increasing usage is that they offer the perfect way to add an extra layer of stylish ambient lighting to your space – either indoor or outdoor. And they do so, in a highly efficient and cost-effective way.
LED strip lights are also widely available both online and at local specialty lighting stores. They come in a variety of vibrant colours and designs, are lightweight and fully customizable, and can be easily cut to fit projects of any size or length. This level of versatility makes them appealing for all buyers, no matter if it’s for residential or commercial projects.
Different Applications
Although you may not have noticed it, but LED strip lights are now used just about everywhere. They’re popular in all kinds of creative lighting setups – from advertising banners and hotel lobbies to exhibitions, retail shops, and even supermarket aisles. Designers are always finding new and innovative ways to use them. But they’re not just for commercial applications, LED strips also work perfectly in home settings. Think garden paths, under-cabinet kitchen lighting, or even TV backlighting – the options are pretty endless.
If you’re ready to take your space to the next level with LED strip lights, here are a few easy lighting ideas you can try today…
Bedroom
Arguably one of their most common uses, strategically placing LED strip lights throughout your bedroom can take it from dull to stylish in just one simple addition. Just remember, when placing them, don’t be afraid to get creative! Bring your ideas to life. For starters, you could create an inviting glow around your headboard, line the insides of wardrobe, or even highlight the decorative features on your shelves. Maybe you want a vibrant gaming setup – you could decorate your desk and surrounding walls with colourful strips to help get you in the zone. Wherever you feel your room is lacking, this is the ideal place for some LED strips.
Garden
Planning to spend more time in your garden? LED strip lighting can completely transform your outdoor aesthetics, while also increasing safety dramatically. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening outdoors, the right lighting makes a big difference.
For subtle but luxury illumination, consider lining your garden paths or patio edges with warm white LED strips. If you’re looking for something a little more bold, consider placing strips along garden beds to highlight your favorite landscaping features – such as trees, fountains, or sculptures. These not only draw more attention to your exterior design but also extend the amount of time you can enjoy those warm summer evenings in the garden.
Note: When you’re looking for the best outdoor LED strip lights, make sure that they have an IP rating of at least 65 so they can withstand harsh weather and dust. You don’t want to put all that effort into your garden lighting just for it to stop working after a night of bad weather!
Bathroom
Bathrooms often get overlooked when it comes to creative lighting, but LED strips can enhance both function and style.. Install cool white or daylight white LED strips under your vanity unit, around mirrors, or along shelves to add both elegance and visibility.
For shower areas or around bathtubs, choose waterproof LED strips with at least an IP67 rating to ensure durability and safety. These strips are low voltage, energy-saving, and perfect for early mornings or late nights when you don’t want to flood the room with overhead light.
Tip: Combine dimmable LED strips with a motion sensor for a convenient, hands-free experience.
Kitchen
LED strips can make your kitchen feel more modern and inviting whilst also providing important task lighting for cooking and cleaning surfaces. Consider adding strips under cabinets, above cabinets, or even inside shelving to showcase your glassware or décor. For added convenience, consider LED lights with remote or app control so that you can easily adjust the brightness or colour temperature based on the time of day.
Dining Room
Want to create a restaurant-style vibe at home? LED strip lights are a subtle but powerful tool for setting the mood in your dining area. Try installing warm-toned strips beneath the dining table, along the ceiling coves, or behind wall panels near your bar or drinks station.
Choose strips with dimming capabilities so you can shift the ambience from warm family dinners to romantic date nights. RGB or CCT strips offer even more flexibility – just match the colour tone to your room’s design and occasion.
Pro tip: Soft, indirect lighting improves the dining experience by creating a more relaxed and visually appealing environment.
Which Strip Should You Choose?
When choosing LED strip lights for your home or project, you’ll typically be faced with two main options: COB or SMD. Although it sounds complex, this is simply just the type of LED chip that the strip contains. To help you make the best decision for your needs, we’ve provided a quick comparison of the two types below:
Get Rolling…
LED strip lights offer countless ways to elevate your home – both indoors and out. You can adjust brightness levels to suit your mood, highlight key features in your space, and enjoy energy-efficient lighting that looks as good as it performs.
If you’re ready to upgrade, check out our extensive collection of LED strip lights HERE and start getting creative with your lighting design.