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LED string lights can add a decorative touch to your living room, bedroom, balcony or patio. But there’s more to consider than just the light colour and price. Unclear product information can often lead to disappointment: the lights may not be suitable for outdoor use, the battery compartment could get wet, or the stated length may not cover the area you had in mind.
IP44-rated string lights aren’t automatically suitable for submersion. The IP44 rating indicates protection against solid objects larger than 1 mm and splashing water from different directions. However, the battery compartment, connectors and controller may still be more sensitive to moisture.
So, if you’re choosing balcony or garden lighting, or string lights for indoors and outdoors, check the following:
With LED string lights, the connecting cable, the gaps between bulbs and the actual illuminated length can all vary. So, a set with a total length of 5 metres won’t necessarily be illuminated along its entire length.
Before buying, check the total length, spacing between bulbs and length of the connecting cable. A short set of string lights is often enough for a railing or narrow shelf. For a patio or larger area of the garden, measure the space before deciding where to put them.
Battery-powered LED string lights are easy to hang wherever you like, but you’ll need the right batteries and will need to check them regularly. If you plan to use the lights often, a mains-powered option may be more practical. A set of LED string lights with a timer means less need to switch them on and off manually, but this feature isn’t available on every model.
The controls also vary. An RGB LED strip, 5 m with an infrared remote lets you change the colour and brightness, but it needs a socket and, with an IP20 rating, is for indoor use only.
“RGB” stands for red, green and blue light. Depending on the controls, these colours can be mixed to create other shades. An RGB strip isn’t the same as a set of warm white string lights.
For battery-powered models, the product description should tell you which type of batteries you need. If batteries aren’t included, remember to add them to your shopping list. Don’t mix old and new batteries. If you’re storing the lights for a longer period, it’s a good idea to remove the batteries to help prevent damage from leaks.
Mains-powered models, on the other hand, need to be within reach of a socket. The 5 m LED strip in the selection below comes with a 24-volt power supply and an infrared remote. According to the product description, its stated power consumption is around 12 to 18 watts.
For many indoor uses, you won’t need a model with extra protection against moisture. Such products shouldn’t be used on a balcony, patio or in the garden. This applies, for example, to products with an IP20 rating.
For outdoor lighting, consider where you’ll install it, the direction rain may come from and where the battery compartment will be positioned. Don’t cover the bulbs or hang them near open flames or strong sources of heat.
Why it suits this profile: This battery-powered garland is designed for indoor decoration. You can place it on shelves, chests of drawers or in baskets without needing a nearby socket.
The stated total length is 165 cm, so you can get a realistic idea of the area you’ll be decorating before you buy, rather than choosing based only on the number of LEDs.
Ten illuminated balls, weighing 0.09 kg, with battery power for flexible indoor placement.
Why it suits this profile: With its firework design, 90 coloured LEDs and 30 hanging points, this light is ideal for eye-catching seasonal decorations indoors or in a sheltered outdoor space.
The IP44 rating is specifically described as protection against splashing water. This helps avoid mistaking the product for a completely waterproof model.
Eight lighting modes with a memory function, a total height of 77 cm and power from four AA batteries, sold separately.
Why it suits this profile: These warm white string lights with a timer are designed for balconies, patios, garden parties, barbecues and celebrations. They can also be used indoors.
The product details state a total length of 5 m, 50 cm spacing between bulbs, an IP44 rating and a 6-hour timer. This makes it easier to plan where to hang the lights and means less need to switch them on and off manually.
Warm white light, ten ball-shaped LEDs with an 8 cm diameter and battery power from three AA batteries.
Why it suits this profile: This flexible RGB LED strip is ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, home bars or party rooms if you want to change the colours and adjust the brightness.
The IP20 rating makes it clear that these lights are for indoor use only. Don’t plan to use this model on a balcony or in the garden.
5 m length, 150 type 5050 SMD LEDs, infrared remote, dimming function and 24-volt power supply.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations in force in the EU.
First, measure the length of the railing, wall or canopy. For outdoor spaces, choose suitable fixings without sharp edges. If you’re using battery-powered lights, keep the battery compartment out of direct rain, even if the string lights are rated IP44.
Their actual lifespan depends on the LED components, power supply, storage and how long they’re used for. To help them last longer, remove the batteries if you won’t be using the lights for a while, and store them somewhere dry. Don’t cover the product or expose it to intense heat.
Battery-powered models have ongoing costs because the batteries need replacing. These depend on battery quality, the number of LEDs, brightness and daily usage time. You can compare mains-powered models by looking at their stated power consumption. A 12- to 18-watt model uses more energy over a longer period than a small set of decorative lights with just a few LEDs.