How to Replace a Reading Lamp Bulb

Last Updated: March 29, 2019

Reading lamps are task lights that can be wall mounted or set on desks to help illuminate areas where people typically read. They can come in multiple different styles and bulb types including LED, fluorescent and incandescent, but all have a basic socket for screwing a lamp bulb into.

Steps

1
Examine the reading lamp to see how easy the bulb is to access.
- Some bulbs can be reached simply by sliding your hand into the shade and grasping the bulb.
- Others require that the shade is removed first to allow you to get a better grip on the bulb itself.
- If the shade does need to be removed, check to see if it unscrews or if it has small thumbscrews on the sides that need to be loosened in order for the shade to come off.
2
Unplug the reading lamp.
3
Unscrew the shade if necessary to get the bulb out and set the shade aside.
4
Grasp the bulb in your dominant hand close to the socket where you can get a good grip on it with your fingers. Don't hold it too close to the top, as too much pressure in this spot may cause the bulb to crack.
5
Gently apply force to the bulb by turning it counterclockwise to loosen it in its socket. Keep turning the bulb until it comes loose in your hand.
6
Discard the bulb.
7
Take the new bulb and guide the stem of it into the socket of the reading lamp.
8
Gently twist the bulb clockwise in the socket to tighten it.
9
Replace the shade if necessary.
10
Plug in the reading lamp and turn it on to test the new bulb.

Warnings

Never put your finger into the socket of the reading lamp, even if you are sure the lamp is unplugged. There is a risk of electrical shock.

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