Whether or not you’ve heard the term “boob light” before, I’m sure you’ve either seen or even lived with a boob light in your home! If you’re not a fan of these ceiling lights, you’ll be happy to hear that there are some great alternatives to boob lights. Today I want to share with you some budget-friendly boob light replacements for every design taste! Even though replacing lighting fixtures may feel daunting, it’s a lot simpler than you might think and it can make a huge impact on your space.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links, you can find more information in my disclosures here.
What is a boob light?
Technically, these lights classify as flush mounts and they’re a common staple in new builds to save money. Builder-grade boob lights usually have metal trim, fluted or frosted glass, and of course the nipple (also known as a finial).
Can a boob light be replaced?
Lighting is a pretty easy thing to replace and a new fixture can have a huge impact on the space.
We replaced our boob light in the hallway at the California Cottage:
Didn’t that make such a huge difference?
If you’ve never replaced a light before, I recommend watching a few videos online on how to change a light fixture and checking out the instruction manual for whichever new light fixture you’re considering for more detailed instructions. If you don’t feel comfortable replacing a light fixture yourself, your best bet would be to hire an electrician or handyman to replace your boob light fixtures for you.
Boob light alternatives
Thankfully, there are alternative options for boob lights! Before swapping out your boob light for a different type of light, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Ceiling height
- For shorter ceilings, a flush mount might be a good option
- For taller ceilings, you could considering a pendant or chandelier
- Length and width of your room
- Selecting the right size light fixture based on your room size is another important thing to keep in mind. A large light fixture will typically be a better option in a large living room or dining room, while a small light can have a big impact in a small space like a pantry or laundry room
- Design goals
- Depending on your interior design style, a flush-mount light fixture with a simple design might be the perfect option or you may want to consider a more unique boob light replacement to add visual interest to your space through stylish overhead lighting
Flush Mounts
Flush-mount light fixtures are typically dome-shaped ceiling light fixtures installed directly onto the ceiling. They have no visible center stem. This creates a seamless and flat look due to little or no gap between the fixture and the ceiling.
If you’re looking to replace your boob light with an option that is still close to the ceiling, a flush mount ceiling light fixture is one of the best alternatives to boob lights. A flush-mount light fixture is a great option especially for smaller spaces with low ceilings.
Below are some unique flush mount light fixtures:
Here are some simple flush mount light fixtures:
Semi Flush Mounts
Semi-flush mount lights have a center stem that lowers and suspends them slightly below the ceiling, usually no more than eight inches from its mounting plate to the bottom of the fixture. Semi-flush mount lights allow for more depth and visibility. They are typically more decorative than flush mount fixtures.
If you’re looking to replace your boob light with a light that is close to the ceiling but doesn’t sit completely flush, a semi flush mount is one of the most popular boob light alternatives.
Below are some great options for brass/gold semi-floush mount lights:
Below are some nice options for black semi-floush mount lights:
Pendants
Pendant light fixtures hang from the ceiling and are usually suspended by a cord, chain, or metal rod. They typically feature a single source of light like a single light bulb. Some pendants have a drum shade or glass shade. They are a popular option above kitchen islands or dinner tables.
If you have higher ceilings and are feeling bold enough to replace your boob light with more of a statement piece, a pendant is a great boob light alternative.
Below are some great options for pendant lights:
Chandeliers
Chandeliers hang from the ceiling and are typically suspended by a cord, chain, or metal rod. They usually feature multiple branched and often ornate sources of light such as bulbs or more traditionally candles. Chandeliers are a popular option in large bedrooms or foyers.
If you have taller ceilings and would like to add classic elegance to your space, a chandelier could be a great boob light replacement.
Below are some of my top picks for lighting options for chandeliers:
Other options
If you don’t want to replace your infamous boob light or want a more renter-friendly option, you could consider Tulip Shades. They hide away boob light fixtures without having to replace them. The ceiling mount is attached with tape, and the shade connects with magnets. This is one of the most unique and creative boob light replacement ideas I’ve come across!
I hope this blog post helped you find some inspiration for good alternatives for boob lights. I would love to see your before and after if you end up replacing your boob lighting!
We don’t have boob lights at our current home, but we do have fans with boob lights. I’m excited to replace those soon!
Tina
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