On a side table, the lamp's shade bottom should sit near eye level when you're seated — usually a 24-30in lamp on a 24-26in table. The shade should hide the bare socket from normal sightlines.

Beside a reading chair within arm's reach, in a room corner to balance the lighting, or next to a sofa for ambient fill. Keep floor lamps out of main walking paths; arc lamps reach over seating without a side table.

All table and floor lamps are plug-in with a standard cord and need no installation — just plug into a wall outlet. The plug type varies by product, so an adapter may be needed in some regions; check the product description if you're unsure.

Most use a standard E26 or E27 screw-base bulb; some smaller lamps use an E12 base. The bulb type and any maximum wattage are noted in the product description; LED bulbs stay well under the limit while giving strong light.

Yes, any socketed E26/E27 lamp works with WiFi, Bluetooth or Zigbee smart bulbs. Leave the lamp's own switch in the “on” position — smart bulbs need constant power and are controlled by an app or voice instead.

Dust regularly with a soft brush or lint roller, and lightly vacuum fabric shades with a brush attachment. Avoid wet cleaning unless the shade is labelled washable, as water can stain or warp the material.