Whether you want to add a dash of color to your relatively understated, Nordic-style living room or bring a sprinkle of retro charm to your bedside table, you should get a large lava lamp. These adorable accessories combine wax and mineral oil or water to create a dynamic light show that livens up any living space, enthralling your family and friends.
Most lava lamps are corded electric units, but some are battery-operated for better portability. Either way, you'll find these colorful light fixtures easy to set up and simple to maintain. They're a characterful addition to any home.
Standard models tend to range in height between 10"-14", so anything bigger than that is considered a large lava lamp. These lamps come in a wide range of prices, so it's important to think about what you're looking for to select the best option for your needs.
Consider the shape and style of the lamp. There are many types to choose between, from the classic rocket or tornado-shaped models to the lamps that follow the original Astro Baby design. You can also find cube or cylinder-shaped products with an innovative remote-controlled function that allows you to customize the light's color.
To ensure a cohesive look in your living area or bedroom, think carefully about the color scheme you want. Those looking for a product that can light up a slightly dull room should opt for something with vibrant, vivid, and warm colors like red, yellow, or orange. If you're searching for something a bit more understated and calming, try a blue, teal, or light purple model.
You should also think about the material type of the lamp's shade. The original Astro Baby model uses a sleek, commercial-grade aluminum that's easy to clean, odorless, and lightweight. Many modern units also use aluminum, but some have a heavy-duty plastic construction that's heat and weather-resistant.
If your lava lamp is battery-operated, you'll need to check whether the package comes with a suitable battery or a rechargeable unit. You should also check the product's battery life so that you're not buying something that requires new AAs every couple of weeks.
Make sure you don't leave your lava lamp on overnight. When these products are left on for more than 6-8 hours, they can overheat, potentially blowing out the bulb and permanently damaging the unit. An overheated lava lamp can also stop producing amoeba-like globules, with the wax instead forming a singular, slow-moving mass.