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LED string lights can add a finishing touch to living rooms, children’s bedrooms, balconies, patios and Christmas decorations. But looks aren’t the only thing to consider when buying. Unclear IP ratings, a lead that’s too short or an unsuitable power supply can all lead to disappointing purchases.
Look out for these three common pitfalls:
The IP rating describes how well a product is protected against solid objects and water. IP20 string lights may be suitable for dry indoor spaces. For example, you could use them on shelves, beds or windows, or in a child’s bedroom, provided they’re kept out of reach of young children.
For a balcony, patio or garden, the product description should explicitly state that the lights are suitable for outdoor use. IP44 string lights are protected against splashing water, but aren’t automatically fully waterproof. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions if the lights will be exposed to persistent rain, standing water or snow.
Light colour is often measured in kelvin:
LED string lights with lots of LEDs can provide more even coverage over a larger area. However, the number of LEDs alone tells you little about how bright the lights will actually be. Also consider the spacing, illuminated area, light output and intended installation.
Battery-powered string lights can be placed anywhere, without needing a plug socket. They’re handy for display cabinets, shelves, party tables or areas without a power point. Check whether batteries are included, what type they need and whether the lights have a timer.
Mains-powered models are a better choice for longer periods of use. Check the cable length, where the power supply will sit and whether there’s an on/off switch. When checking the stated length, distinguish between the total length, illuminated length and power lead.
Why this product suits this need: These mains-powered globe lights feature 20 coloured globes that give off a warm white glow, and measure 435 cm in total. They’re designed for dry indoor spaces such as living rooms and children’s bedrooms.
The product details list the total length, the 385 cm illuminated length and the 50 cm power lead separately. The IP20 rating clearly indicates that the lights are for indoor use only.
20 lights, 6 cm globes, an on/off switch on the product and a warm white glow.
Why this product suits this need: These meteor shower lights are designed to cover larger decorative areas. They feature 720 warm white LEDs with a colour temperature of 3000 kelvin and 15 hanging light tubes.
The specifications give a coverage area of 10 × 0,5 m, a 5 m extension cable and an IP44 rating. This makes it easier to plan for outdoor areas, but doesn’t mean the lights are protected against direct immersion.
720 LEDs, 15 hanging points spaced 70 cm apart and a memory function to save your preferred setting.
Why this product suits this need: With eight hanging points and a stated coverage area of 5 × 0,3 m, these meteor shower lights are well suited to smaller façades, windows or seasonal Christmas displays.
The compact design helps you avoid choosing too few light tubes for a large area or too many for a window. The IP44 rating indicates protection against splashing water.
192 LEDs, 8 hanging points, a 5 m extension cable and a 6-watt power supply.
Why this product suits this need: These battery-powered string lights feature 10 warm white LEDs and can be placed anywhere, without needing a plug socket. The transparent wire is ideal for subtle decorations.
The power supply is clearly stated: two AA batteries. If you use the lights outdoors, don’t immerse them in water and protect the battery compartment from moisture.
2,3 m total length, 10 LEDs, warm white light and flexible placement without a mains connection.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Before putting the lights up, check for damaged cables, loose bulb holders or cracks. Mains-powered models should be plugged into a suitable socket; don’t overload extension leads. Make sure cables aren’t trapped under rugs, doors or furniture.
For outdoor models, keep the power supply and connections protected in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t place string lights near naked flames, hot surfaces or easily flammable materials. Don’t put batteries in household rubbish, and remove them if the lights won’t be used for an extended period.
Their actual lifespan depends on the LED components, power supply, how long they’re used for, how they’re stored and the conditions they’re used in. Moisture, significant temperature changes and physical strain can shorten their lifespan. That’s why the manufacturer’s guidance on operating time and care is more useful than broad marketing claims.
Their energy use depends on their electrical power in watts and how many hours a day they’re switched on. Battery-powered models also have battery costs. For a rough comparison, multiply the stated power by the number of hours used and your local electricity price.
That depends on the IP rating and the manufacturer’s instructions. IP20 models are for dry indoor spaces only. IP44 string lights are designed to withstand splashing water, but not immersion. Before installing lights outdoors for an extended period, check all connections, the power supply and the fixings.