Okay, so let’s talk neon lamps. Not just any neon lamps, though—the kind that can take your room from “just a bedroom” to the coolest space you’ll ever call your own. Now, whether it’s neon light signs spelling out your favorite word, an organic shape, or whatever, a neon sign lamp that adds just the right touch of glow, or a fun shape that brings some personality to your walls, neon is here to stay—and we’re here for it.
So, this guide will help you pick the perfect neon sign, get it hung up safely, and even show you how to make it last. Get ready, because your room is about to become everyone’s favorite hangout spot.
Why Neon Signs are the Ultimate Room Essential
Seriously, there’s something about neon signs that just feels right in any room. They’re not just lights; they’re mood-setters, art pieces, and statement-makers all at once. It doesn’t matter whether you’re adding a small neon sign lamp to a shelf or going all out with neon light signs that cover an entire wall, these lights bring out the coolest vibes and make a room instantly Instagrammable (or TikTok-perfect). Plus, neon signs are the easiest way to take your room from basic to brilliant.
But the best part? Well, there are endless styles and colors that you can choose, and yeah, here at Roomtery, we have quite a few that you’re gonna love!
Modern Neon Lamps vs. Traditional Neon Signs: What’s the Difference?
Now, if you’re new to neon lights, it’s easy to think they’re all the same. But here’s the thing, the neon lamps you’re adding to your room are totally different from the heavy-duty, outdoor signs you see on business buildings. Yes, the ones you see on the Vegas strip are not the ones you’d be having in your room. So, let’s go ahead and see what sets them apart!
Materials Used
For starters, traditional neon signs are made with glass tubes filled with gases like neon or argon that create a super bright glow. These classic signs are cool but can be fragile and hard to repair (and super expensive). But modern neon sign lamps, especially those designed for decor, usually use LED technology. They’re made with flexible, durable materials like silicone, making them safer and way more lightweight for indoor use. They’re called “neon” only due to their appearance, but they’re actually just LED lights.
Brightness and Heat
Okay so the old-school neon signs are bright enough to be seen from a distance, so they’re designed to really stand out. But they can get warm, which is why they’re more common outdoors.
But indoor neon sign lamps, on the other hand, are soft and ambient, giving off just the right amount of light for a cozy room vibe. Plus, LED neon lamps barely generate any heat, so they’re safe to touch—even if you leave them on for hours.
Energy Usage
While yes, traditional neon signs are beautiful but can consume a lot of power due to their design. Modern LED neon lamps, however, are super energy-efficient and use just a fraction of the electricity, so they won’t hike up your electric bill.
Safety
LED neon lights are incredibly safe for indoor use, especially in places like bedrooms. Unlike traditional glass neon signs, LED versions don’t contain gas or breakable glass tubing. This means you don’t have to worry about high voltage or any risk from broken glass. Basically, you’re 100% totally safe!
💡 Good to know: Modern neon lamps are specifically designed for home decor, making them safe, lightweight, and super easy to install. If you’ve been avoiding neon because you thought it was dangerous, these new lights will completely change your mind!
Picking Out the Perfect Neon Sign Lamp for Your Vibe
When it comes to choosing neon, there’s a perfect sign out there for everyone. But here’s what to think about:
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Style: Are you into simple words or shapes, or do you want something custom that screams you? Here at Roomtery, we offer signs that fit a variety of aesthetics, but you can even buy LED lights and DIY something if you’re felling extra creative.
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Color: Neon signs aren’t just limited to electric pink and blue (though, honestly, we love those). You can choose from tons of colors, like chill pastels or bold reds, to match the energy you’re going for.
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Size: Okay, so, think about your space. A smaller neon sign lamp is perfect for a cozy shelf or tabletop, while a large neon sign can make a big impact on a blank wall. (Hello, statement piece!)
Where to Place Your Neon Signs for Maximum Glow
Alright, so is there a designated spot where these should even go? Well, nah, not really. The thing is, it’s really going to be where you think is the most appropriate since this is your space.
But generally speaking, neon signs are meant to stand out, so placement is everything! But it’s entirely understandable if you still just don’t have a clue where to put them at. So, here are some ideas for creating the best neon-lit spots in your space:
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Above your bed: This is a classic neon sign spot—perfect for a low-key glow while you chill or vibe.
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In a cozy corner: Do you have a reading nook? How about a desk? Well, you could consider adding a neon light sign with a simple phrase or shape above it for that extra-comfy feel.
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Near your mirror or vanity: If you want, you can add a neon sign lamp near your mirror for the coolest getting-ready vibe.
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In a gallery wall mix: Okay, so you 100% can’t go wrong with this! You just need to combine neon signs with other wall art, photos, and prints to make a gallery wall that truly glows.
💡 Tip: If you’re into a more subtle look, try placing a smaller neon sign on a bookshelf or dresser instead of hanging it. It’ll still add a glow without stealing the entire spotlight.
How to Hang Neon Light Signs
So, you’ve found the neon sign of your dreams. Great! Well, thankfully, hanging it isn’t going to be as hard as you might have expected (seriously, these aren’t heavy at all).
Plan your placement
For starters, just figure out where you want it (see above). Generally, eye level or slightly above works best to make it the center of attention. But honestly, it’s really where you’d want it to be.
Mounting options
Most neon signs have pre-drilled holes for wall mounting, so all you need are screws or hooks that can hold the weight. If you’re worried about damage (or you can’t drill such as a dorm or renting a space), then Command Hooks or heavy-duty adhesive strips work too (just make sure they’re rated for the sign’s weight). They hold up surprisingly well and make it easy to remove without leaving marks.
Hide the cords
Don’t forget that neon signs need power, so make sure an outlet is nearby. Use cord concealers to keep things neat.
How to Clean Neon Sign Lamps
Neon lights might be low-maintenance, but dust and fingerprints can dull that glow. Here’s how to keep them looking fresh:
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Turn off and unplug: Safety first! Always turn off and unplug your neon sign before cleaning.
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Dust with a microfiber cloth: Neon signs collect dust, so a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth will keep it looking clean and bright.
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Skip the chemicals: You’ll want to avoid any strong cleaners, which can mess with the glow and damage the surface. So, a soft cloth is all you need!
💡 Tip: Give your neon sign a quick dusting every couple of weeks to keep it looking brand new. It doesn’t take much, but it makes a huge difference in brightness.
FAQs About Neon Sign Lamps
Are neon lights safe to keep on in bedrooms?
Absolutely! Most decor neon signs use LED technology, which doesn’t heat up and is totally safe to keep on.
Can I leave my neon sign on all night?
Yes, especially if it’s LED-based. If you like a little nightlight, a dimmable neon sign is perfect for creating a soft glow while you sleep.
Do neon lights use a lot of power?
Nope! LED neon signs are super energy-efficient, so even if you leave them on for a long time, they won’t hike up your bill.
How fragile are neon signs?
Traditional glass signs are fragile, but most home neon signs are made of LED flex, which is way more durable and ideal for bedrooms or dorm rooms.
Can neon signs go outside?
Some can, but always check the label. If it’s not rated for outdoor use, keep it inside to avoid weather damage.
Does it work with any aesthetic?
Well, not every aesthetic out there, but a good chunk of them it does. For example, it doesn’t make since to have a neon sign if you’re doing something like cottagecore, grandmacore, or even any sort of whimsy natural theme. But for modern and future base aesthetics (including Grunge, Y2K, and even Hollywood Glam) then yeah, these lamps can complement beautifully!
