You’ve chosen your tree and you’ve got your decorations , now it’s time to choose the right Christmas lights.
They’re a Christmas essential that’s easy to overlook, especially if you get carried away shopping for new ornaments. Once you have your tree, choose the right lights to suit your decorating style and tree size.
It’s easy to be overwhelmed when shopping for Christmas tree lights. There are dozens of different styles and connectable lighting means there are more options on the market than ever before. We’re breaking down everything you need to know about Christmas tree lights, from the best colour to how many lights you need.
The Different Types of Christmas Tree Lights
Choosing your Christmas tree lights is just as important as buying your tree decorations. You need lights that coordinate with our theme and match the overall décor of your room. While your baubles and ornaments make your tree your own, it’s the lights make it stand out and create a welcoming glow that we all associate with the festive season.
There are 6 main types of Christmas tree lights you can choose between:
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String lights: The most popular option and suitable for all tree types, available in different shades of white and multicolour variants.
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LED lights: An energy-efficient option that gives you a bright colour payoff without heating up the bulb. It’s an ideal option to maximize the luminosity of your tree lights.
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Cluster lights: Similar to string lights but with the individual lights packed closely together to give you more brightness and sparkle. It’s a high-impact option and makes your tree look like it’s glowing.
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Fairy lights: One of the most versatile options and a more delicate alternative to string lights, ideal for smaller trees with a subtle sparkle.
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Net & curtain lights: Ideal for backlighting your Christmas tree as they’re usually placed around a window or staircase, perfect for flat-back trees.
How Many Lights Does Your Christmas Tree Need?
One of the practical things to consider when choosing your Christmas tree lights is exactly how many you need. As a general rule of thumb, you want at least 100 lights per 1.5 feet of your tree. If you want a brighter effect from your Christmas tree lights, swap this for 200 lights per foot.
After figuring out how many lights your Christmas tree needs, make sure to check the exact type of light fixture. Cluster lights will give you a brighter glow and need fewer strings due to their denser placement. If your tree has fuller branches, you’ll need longer lights to accommodate the extra width of your Christmas tree.
Choosing the Right Colour and Tone for Your Christmas Lights
Your lights are what sets the tone for your Christmas tree. Most Christmas tree lights will be available in at least a warm or cool white. You’ll get a more classic look with a warm white light, creating a cosy feeling. By comparison, a cool white will give you an icy aesthetic and a sharper look to your Christmas tree.
Don’t rule out the option of multicolour lights! They’re a great choice if you’re going for a retro or traditional look for your Christmas tree. They add a fun twist that is perfect for your family Christmas tree. If you’re leaning heavily toward a theme or aesthetic for your Christmas tree, consider using lights that match your colour palette for a more cohesive look.
How to Place and Layer Your Christmas Tree Lights
Once you’ve found the right Christmas lights for your tree, it’s time to assemble them. Before decorating with your lights, take them out of the box and plug them into a socket. Look out for broken light bulbs and change them with the spare lights you should have received in your box.
After checking your lights, start by wrapping them from the bottom and working your way up, going one branch at a time. You can create a layered effect by pushing some of the lights closer to the tree trunk, while leaving others on the edge of the branch. If you want to add an extra dimension to your Christmas tree, try adding two different types of lights, such as cluster lights and fairy lights for extra sparkle.
Bringing Your Christmas Tree to Life
Choosing the right lights for your Christmas tree can completely transform your décor, adding warmth and sparkle to your holiday celebrations. Whether you opt for LEDs, cluster lights, or something in between, the key is to choose a style that fits your home and enhances your overall decorating theme.
When you're ready to decorate, find a variety of lights that fit your style and budget, whether you're after something simple or looking to create a stunning display. Explore our collection of Christmas tree lights to find the perfect fit for your home and make your Christmas tree shine bright this season.