How to dim lights

With dimmable lamps you can adjust the light output. Many people like being able to change brightness to create different effects and moods in a room. That’s why there are many dimmable light sources and several ways to dim them. Almost every fixture that is delivered without a light source (or with a replaceable, non-integrated source) can be made dimmable by using a dimmable bulb, then pairing it with a dimmer. Prefer to skip installing a dimmer? Choose a smart bulb—you’ll dim it with an app on your phone or tablet. Looking for a dimmer? Click here.

Is your lamp dimmable?

Check the product specifications under Dimmable:

“Yes” → the lamp is dimmable.
“Yes (not included)” → the lamp is dimmable when you use a dimmable bulb and a dimmer (not needed if you use a smart bulb). You’ll usually see a suitable dimmable bulb under Recommended combinations.
“No” → the lamp is not dimmable and cannot be made dimmable.

Dimmable light sources

We offer many dimmable bulbs. To use them you’ll need a compatible dimmer or—if you pick a smart bulb—you can dim via an app on your phone or tablet. Looking for extra functionality? See below for smart bulbs, 3-step dimmable bulbs, and dim-to-warm bulbs.

Smart bulbs (app-dimmable)

Want the easiest way to dim? Choose a bulb that dims via an app. Adjust brightness from anywhere at home—no special wall dimmer or rewiring needed. Many smart bulbs also offer full color control (RGB), so you can set thousands of colours in addition to white tones.

3-step dimmable bulbs

With a 3-step dimmable bulb you dim without a special dimmer—just use your normal switch. Toggle the switch quickly to cycle through three levels:

- First ON: 100%
- OFF → ON again: 50%
- OFF → ON again: 25%
- OFF → ON again: back to 100%

The lamp remembers the last brightness used when you switch it off.

Dim-to-warm bulbs

A dim-to-warm LED changes not only brightness but also colour temperature: the more you dim, the warmer (more amber) the light becomes—perfect for switching from task light to cozy ambience with one bulb.

Ways to dim bulbs: plug, cord, floor, wall dimmer, or app

With dimmable bulbs you can control brightness via a plug-in dimmer, a cord (in-line) dimmer, a floor dimmer, a wall dimmer, or an app (smart bulbs).

Dimming floor and table lamps

Many floor/table lamps have an in-line on/off switch on the power cord—sometimes a cord or floor dimmer. Some models have a built-in touch dimmer on the fixture. You can also fit a smart bulb to dim via app. The product specifications list the switch/dimmer type for each lamp.

Dimming wall lights

Wall lights are often dimmed with a wall dimmer. A cord switch is also popular so you don’t need to install a wall dimmer—just plug into a socket. Smart bulbs are another option to avoid extra wiring and dim via app.

Dimming pendants, ceiling lights & recessed spots

Make these dimmable by combining a dimmable bulb with a wall dimmer. If you prefer no wall dimmer, use a smart bulb and dim with the app.

Dimming outdoor lights

Outdoor lamps can be dimmed, although it’s less common since they mainly switch on after dark. If you want dimming outside, choose a dimmable bulb with a compatible LED dimmer, or use a smart bulb and control it via the app.

Choosing your dimmer

There are several ways to make your lamp dimmable. The best-known are wall dimmers and plug-in dimmers.

Wall dimmer

This replaces the standard wall switch and is mainly used with lamps without a plug. Keep in mind:

- Check dimmability first. The product description will state if the lamp/bulb is dimmable.
- 230 V dimming. If you use a dimmable 220–230 V lamp, a standard 230 V wall dimmer is usually suitable (often indicated with the letter “R”).
- Lamps with a transformer. For low-voltage lamps (e.g., 12 V spots) ensure the dimmer is compatible with the driver/transformer (correct dimming method and output control).
- Power range. Dimmers have minimum and maximum wattage. If the load is too low or too high, dimming may flicker or fail, and you can shorten the dimmer’s lifespan.

Need help choosing a dimmer? Our customer service team is happy to advise.

Cord (in-line) dimmer

Mounted in the cord. You cut the cord where you want the dimmer, then connect both sides into the dimmer housing. Choose a model that is compatible with your lamp and matches the look—cord dimmers are quite visible.

Floor dimmer

Similar to a cord dimmer, but the control unit rests on the floor. Plug your lamp into the floor dimmer, then plug the dimmer into the socket. Adjust brightness with the on-unit control.

Plug-in dimmer

Plug the dimmer into the socket, then plug the lamp into the dimmer. Quick and easy, often with an on/off function as well. Always check compatibility with your lamp/bulb type.