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The 12 Best Closet Lighting Options of 2024

Bright and effective options to illuminate your space

Closet lighting we recommend on a yellow background

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

Adding some great closet lighting can instantly make any closet space easier to use—and more stylish. Chandeliers and detailed lighting are fun ways to enhance the wow factor of your closet while custom setups keep things organized and easy to see. “An overhead light usually works best in a closet space, as it is out of the way and offers general illumination for the space,” says John Barnes, design expert at Lamps Plus.

The best closet fixtures have the right amount of brightness (which is measured in lumens), can be easily installed, and make your closet more accessible. Our top picks include lights suitable for just any space and use, including rechargeable, motion-sensor, and smart options.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Lithonia Lighting LED Motion Sensor Flush Mount Closet Light

Lithonia Lighting LED Motion Sensor Flush Light

Amazon

What We Like
  • Energy-efficient LEDs

  • Multiple sizes available

  • Motion detection sensor

What We Don't Like
  • Requires professional installation

  • May need added junction boxes

The Lithonia Lighting LED Motion Sensor Flush Light will keep your energy costs down while providing plenty of bright illumination for your closet space. It comes in three sizes, so depending on the size of your space, you can select something that will provide the right amount of light without taking up a lot of room. The smallest size can even fit on unusually small walls. 

This light automatically turns on when it detects motion, so you don’t need to worry about fumbling around in a dark, windowless room. To keep energy use in check, it shuts off after it doesn’t detect motion for 30 seconds. Think of it like a keyless entry for your light: Just walk in, find what you need, and walk out without ever having to worry about the light switch.

It comes with all the hardware you need to mount the light fixture vertically or horizontally. It does, however, need to be hard-wired to your electrical system. Depending on your desired placement and current setup, that might mean the added cost of an electrician to run new wires, install junction boxes, or get everything connected safely.

Type: Motion Sensor | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: 575, 925, or 1,225 lumens | Power source: Wired

Best Budget

Brilliant Evolution Wireless LED Puck Lights

Brilliant Evolution Wireless LED Puck

Amazon

What We Like
  • Affordable

  • Customizable spacing

  • Can be controlled by remote

What We Don't Like
  • Remote is easy to lose

  • Batteries require replacing

The Brilliant Evolution Wireless LED Puck is proof you don’t need to spend a ton to get custom lighting in your closet. With this set of three pucks controlled by a remote, you can place lights exactly where you need them in your space. Each of the lights puts out 55 lumens of light and can be hung with just a small nail or screw. They use batteries, so no complex installation or wiring is required.

You can set a timer for the lights, but they don’t include a motion detector or other sensors. To turn them on, either tap the lights or use the included remote. But you may want to consider placement and the possibility of losing the remote. If you put the lights up too high, it can be difficult to reach them to turn on and off without the remote handy. 

Type: Remote | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: 55 lumens | Power source: Battery

Best Splurge

Youtob Motion Sensor LED Ceiling Light

Youtob Motion Sensor LED Ceiling Light

Amazon

What We Like
  • Large lights

  • Can be customized with multiple lights

  • Motion sensor

What We Don't Like
  • Needs professional installation

Install the Youtob Motion Sensor LED Ceiling Light in your closet, and it’ll give you plenty of options to illuminate the space. While its cost is somewhat pricey per light, it’s a great option if you’re looking to create custom lighting without taking up too much of the available space. The sleek light fades right into the background when off and creates a helpful glow when turned on. Whether you’re installing one or a few, these ceiling lights do need to be hardwired. However, once that’s done, you can use a light switch to control them.

These lights also have a handy motion sensor that activates when you’re within a certain range. Depending on the size of your closet, that means you can use nearby lights while keeping the ones deeper inside off. For long, narrow closets, that’s a helpful way to keep energy costs down. 

Type: Motion Sensor | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: 1,200 lumens | Power Source: Wired

Best Track

Globe Electric Black S-Shape Track Lighting

Globe Electric Grayson 4-Light Matte Black S-Shape Track Lighting

Amazon

What We Like
  • Adjustable lights

  • Multiple finish choices

  • Can be dimmable

What We Don't Like
  • Bulbs and dimmable switch sold separately

  • Professional installation needed

Track lighting adds some extra style and function, and the Grayson set from Globe Electric delivers both with the added perk of adjustable lighting. It’s available in two finishes—matte black or stainless steel—so you can easily match the other fixtures in your closet. Each of the four lights can be adjusted to specific angles, putting the direction of the beam in your control. When you’re ready to hang the lights, there’s only one installation point and all of the lights are on a track. However, you may want to have a pro take care of the installation and wiring.

Keep in mind this track light doesn’t come with bulbs, which you’ll need to purchase separately. It requires 50-watt light bulbs, which aren’t as energy-efficient as LEDs and tend to get hot when on for a long time. This closet lighting fixture is dimmable, but you’ll need to have a dimmable switch, which is also sold separately, installed for the feature to work.

Type: Track | Bulb type: Fluorescent | Brightness: N/A | Power source: Wired

Best Motion Sensor

Mr. Beams Motion-Sensing LED Ceiling Light

Mr. Beams Indoor/Outdoor Motion-Sensing LED Ceiling Light

Amazon

What We Like
  • Long-range motion sensor

  • Automatic shut-off

  • Energy-efficient LED bulb

What We Don't Like
  • Smaller size

  • Limited brightness

The Mr. Beams Motion-Sensing LED Ceiling Light will automatically brighten up your closet when it picks up motion from up to 20 feet away. This makes it a breeze to get light as soon as you walk into your closet, regardless of size. It’s big enough to light most closet spaces with just one light, though it does have a more limited output of 100 lumens. The light automatically turns off when there’s no motion detected for 30 seconds—meaning you never need to worry about turning off the light. 

Thanks to its included LED light, this product has a long lifespan and is very energy-efficient. It is battery-powered, but the battery runs for up to 35 hours. The light fixture itself is a bit small, so if you need increased brightness, you may want to combine multiple lights in larger spaces. Just keep in mind that each will turn on separately, as they detect motion independently.

Type: Motion sensor | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: 100 lumens | Power source: Battery

Best for Walk-In Closets

Willa Arlo Interiors Wilmes 4-Light Dimmable Chandelier

Willa Arlo Interiors Wilmes 4-Light Dimmable Chandelier

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Unique style

  • Affordable chandelier

  • Statement-making designExposed bulbs

What We Don't Like
  • Exposed bulbs

  • Bulbs and switch sold separately

Add some extra style to your walk-in closet with the gorgeous Willa Arlo Interiors Wilmes Chandelier. It’s a standout light fixture that features four lights, light-catching crystal leaves, and twisting iron branches that illuminate while looking like a delicate cascade of flowers. If you want to make your closet brighter and more of a statement, this is the fixture that’ll do it. Fortunately, it’s also very affordable for a chandelier, especially given its extra style and detailing.

The lights are exposed in this chandelier, so you’ll need to pick bulbs that match the aesthetic. This might eliminate some more energy-efficient or budget-friendly options. Whatever bulbs you choose, you’ll need to purchase them separately. Additionally, while you can dim this closet light fixture, you’ll need to get dimmable bulbs and have a dimmable switch installed to be able to do so.

Type: Chandelier | Bulb type: Incandescent | Brightness: N/A | Power source: Wired

Best for Utility Closets

Honwell Motion Sensor Wireless Light

Honwell Motion Sensor Wireless Light

Amazon

What We Like
  • Adjustable light position

  • Battery-powered

  • Indoor/outdoor durability

What We Don't Like
  • Very bright directional light

  • Batteries can get depleted quickly

For closets that are a bit more rugged, like utility closets, the easily positionable Honwell Motion Sensor Wireless Light is a good option. Designed as an indoor and outdoor light, it’s more durable than your average closet light fixture—and it’s super convenient, too. It’s perfect to use in unheated or uncooled spaces, as well as areas where moisture is common. The light uses a motion sensor to detect movement and turn on. It can be positioned and angled 180 degrees, giving you a beam of brightness exactly where you need it (but it’s best to do this while you’re mounting it). Installation is easy, and since it runs on 3 AAA batteries, it’s low-maintenance.

This compact light is super bright, and it can be uncomfortably bright when pointed in the wrong direction. Additionally, the motion sensor and automatic shut-off functionality can drain batteries quickly, depending on the batteries you’re using.

Type: Motion sensor | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: 200 lumens | Power source: Battery

Best Battery-Powered

Lightbiz LED Closet Light

Lightbiz LED Closet Light

Amazon

What We Like
  • Rechargeable battery

  • Customizable

  • Multiple installation options

  • Motion sensor

What We Don't Like
  • Recharging can be tricky

  • Not for damp environments

Configure your closet lighting in any custom manner with the Lightbix LED Closet Light. These bright, energy-efficient light bars are a breeze to install and place, either via the adhesive strips or magnets. You can attach them to walls, under shelving, or just about anywhere else inside your closet. Each light fixture runs on a rechargeable battery that connects via USB, meaning you never have to swap out the batteries, either. Each full charge gives up to six hours of continuous light. Plus, there’s a motion sensor that detects motion within 10 feet and turns off after 20 seconds without movement.

Because of their simple installation options, this closet light isn’t the best for spaces with a lot of moisture. And you’ll want to keep in mind that wherever you install the light, you’ll need to bring your charging source—or replace the adhesive strip each time you need to recharge.

Type: Motion sensor | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: 250 lumens | Power source: Battery

Best Strip

Dalattin Smart WiFi LED Strip Lights

Dalattin Smart WiFi LED Strip Lights

Amazon

What We Like
  • Control via remote, app, and smart devices

  • Custom light colors

  • Sync with music

  • Versatile mounting options

What We Don't Like
  • Dim illumination

  • Adhesive wears out over time

Strip lighting gives you plenty of customization power, and the Dalattin Smart WiFi LED Strip Lights are supremely versatile and adjustable. This 50-foot-long strip light can light up your closet and be placed almost anywhere, like under shelving, on the floor, or around individual hanging areas. You can choose from an array of different colors and settings, including syncing lights to music. They’re also compatible with smart home devices, including Amazon Alexa and Google Home. An included remote and smartphone app also allow you to adjust the settings and color.

However, these strip lights don’t give off a ton of light and aren’t as bright as an overhead fixture. They tend to provide more of a glow rather than actual visibility. If you want just enough light to be able to see where you’re going or light up individual shelves, they’re great. But for spaces without any other lighting, they may not be enough. Installation is easy, thanks to the included adhesive backing. But it can wear out and need replacing over time to prevent sagging.

Type: Strip | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: Not listed | Power source: Corded electric

Best Dimmable

Hampton Bay 12-Inch Round LED Ceiling Puff

Hampton Bay 12-Inch Round LED Ceiling Puff

Home Depot

What We Like
  • Energy-efficient

  • Bright illumination

  • No bulbs required

  • Long lifespan

What We Don't Like
  • Pricey

  • Needs professional installation

The Hampton Bay LED Ceiling Puff light is a mid-sized light fixture that works great for most closets as a single light source. It measures just 12 inches in diameter and has a white opaque cover, but it’s bright enough to deliver a whopping 1,000 lumens so you can see clearly. The fixture is dimmable, though you’ll need a separate dimmable light switch to use this feature. Inside the light, LEDs make for an energy-efficient power source that uses minimal power.

Keep in mind this closet light does need to be hard-wired, so it’s best to have it professionally installed. The fixture is a bit pricier than other alternatives, especially when you factor in the cost of professional installation and extras like additional wiring or junction boxes. However, it’s hard to top its bright illumination, especially in dark closets.

Type: Dimmable | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: 1,000 lumens | Power source: Wired

Best Smart

TALOYA Smart Ceiling Light Flush Mount

TALOYA Smart Ceiling Light

Amazon

What We Like
  • Smart home compatible

  • Adjustable and dimmable

  • Multiple colors available

What We Don't Like
  • Requires Wi-Fi connectivity

For added convenience and adjustability, opt for lighting that’s compatible with your smart home. Delivering an impressive 2,000 lumens, this ceiling light offers a ton of brightness to illuminate your space. You can control the TALOYA Smart Ceiling Light Flush Mount through their smartphone app; or, use voice commands via your Google Home or Alexa. We love that you can easily adjust the color, brightness, and warmth of your light with ease. And while the smart light may not come with a built-in motion sensor, you can save on your electricity bill by setting a schedule or timer.

The product is designed with a dual-light system, as the front controls the white-colored light while the back controls the multicolored light. Although self-installation is required, the manufacturer provides an easy-to-follow tutorial video for added convenience. Note that you can only install this light in areas of your home that are covered by Wi-Fi. Depending on your needs, you can purchase this light in a 12-inch, 15.8-inch, or 18-inch size.

Type: Smart | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: 2000 lumens | Power source: Corded electric

Best Mirror Light

Orren Ellis Rectangle LED Wall Mirror

Orren Ellis Rectangle LED Wall Mirror

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Multiple colors and color-changing modes available

  • Controlled via remote or built-in touch buttons

  • Can be wall-mounted or door-mounted

What We Don't Like
  • Pricey

  • May not be suitable as standalone closet lighting

Create a luxurious and practical in-closet vanity with this Orren Ellis Rectangle LED Wall Mirror. The full-length mirror comes with an LED strip light that borders the entire perimeter, providing a ton of brightness so you can see yourself clearly before heading out for the day. In addition to your standard white light, you can also choose between seven static colors and seven dynamic light modes for even more versatility and adjustability. Plus, you can easily adjust the brightness depending on your preference. Control the LED mirror using the included remote or built-in touch buttons.

We appreciate that it can be mounted on either your wall or door, making it the perfect addition to any walk-in closet. Depending on your closet’s size, it may not be suitable as a standalone lighting option, but it’s a functional addition to most spaces. 

Type: Strip | Bulb type: LED | Brightness: Not listed | Power source: Corded electric

Final Verdict

Our top pick, the Lithonia Lighting LED Motion Sensor Flush Light, comes in multiple sizes, includes a motion sensor for automatic on and off, and gives out plenty of light for your closet. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Brilliant Evolution Wireless LED Puck. Available in a set of three, you won’t need to perform any complex installation or wiring.

What to Look for in Closet Lighting

Power Source

Closet lights can be hardwired or battery-powered. A few options are also corded electric. When choosing the right kind of light for your space, consider if you have access to outlets or junction boxes. If not, you may need to hire an electrician to run extra wires, which adds to the overall cost. Battery-powered lights, such as the Lightbix LED Closet Light, are easier to install, but there may not be as many style options.

How easy a closet lighting unit is to install ultimately depends on your unique closet, so you'll want to look for features that make sense. For example, if your closet has really high ceilings, you may consider a motion-sensor light (like the Mr. Beams Motion-Sensing LED Ceiling Light) or a stick-on light (like the Imenou LED Closet Light) that can go on a wall. Also, consider how easy a particular light is to install and remove for charging or changing out batteries.

Dimmable lights could be convenient if you have a mirror in your closet and you want to see yourself in different levels of lighting. And if energy efficiency and lifespan are more important to you than fancy features, you may want to stick with an LED light in your closet.

Ease of Use

Motion sensors, remotes, and push buttons all make closet lighting a breeze to turn on and off. Look for features that work for your space. It’s important to consider light placement when deciding. If you plan to put the lights up high, push buttons won’t be as helpful as remotes or motion sensors. For large spaces with multiple lights, sensors that turn on and off based on ambient light can result in light interference. Additionally, lights with smart-home compatibility like the TALOYA Smart Ceiling Light Flush Mount can make for easy hands-free use.

Type of Lighting

Motion sensor lights are some of the most popular options because it makes illumination super simple. Track lighting, like the Grayson set from Globe Electric, can be directed to specific places in your closet, which is ideal if you have a larger space or want to highlight certain areas. Strip lights, like the Dalattin Smart WiFi LED Strip Lights, create a fun glow effect and can often be customized with color and pattern. Recessed and globe lighting are the simplest solutions, although they do require hardwired installation.

Closet Space

Larger spaces may need multiple lights or a light with increased brightness. Brightness is measured in lumens; the higher the number, the more light a bulb or fixture creates. If you prefer a softer glow, directional or adjustable lighting, such as track lighting, lets you decide where you want more (or less) illumination.

“Close to ceiling lights, especially flush mount style lights, are most commonly seen in closet spaces,” said John Barnes, design expert at Lamps Plus. “Look for a design that sits very close to the ceiling so it doesn't interfere with your activity in the space.”

Brightness

Look for lighting with enough light for your needs. If you apply your makeup or other tasks in your closet, brighter lights can help you see better. If all you need is enough light to pick out clothing, less light will probably be fine. In addition to lumens, consider the temperature of the bulbs. Installed lights may not have much variety, but you can look for bulbs or lighting that’s warm white, bright white, or cool white. This scale is based on the hue or variations of light.

FAQ
  • What is closet-rated lighting?

    Because they’re often small, enclosed spaces, closets have some strict code rules when it comes to lighting. Closet-rated lighting is safe for closets and now includes LED bulbs and fixtures. There are also steps you should take, such as storing items a minimum distance away from all fixtures, to make sure your closet is safe. It’s important to check the most recent code regulations or work with a knowledgeable professional to ensure your closet lighting is up to code.

  • How many lumens does a closet light need?

    Most closet light fixtures range from 500 to 2,000 lumens. Larger closets will need more lumens or multiple fixtures to get the desired amount of light. Small fixtures with less than 500 lumens can work in closets, but you may need to install more than one. They can be a great way to create multiple zones within a large, walk-in closet or illuminate shelving and clothing bars.

  • What type of light fixture cannot be used in a closet?

    Exposed bulbs cannot be used in closet spaces because they can be a safety hazard. These are most common in older utility closets. If you have bare hanging bulbs in your closets, adding a simple-to-install puck light or strip light can be an inexpensive upgrade that keeps your closet within code.


    “Don't use any light source or fixture that has a high heat output, as there's a chance that clothes or other items stored in the closet space could accidentally be placed near it,” said Barnes. “LEDs are a great choice, as they have a very low heat signature, even when left on for an extended period of time.”

Why Trust The Spruce

This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. She has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. To compile this list, she looked for closet lighting that could work in a variety of spaces, from large walk-in closets to smaller coat closets. Melynn also considered energy efficiency, brightness, and installation.

Our Experts:

  • John Barnes, design expert at Lamps Plus
  • Bianca Pineda, commerce writer for The Spruce, provided additional product updates.
Updated by Ashley Abramson
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