IKEA Is Selling a $22 Sconce That Requires Absolutely No Tools

Cullen OrmondHouse Tours Editor
Cullen OrmondHouse Tours Editor
I write about house tours (but I love a good kitchen and kids' room article). My work can be found across AT Media, including The Kitchn and Cubby. I’ve been writing about home-related topics for nearly five years and love seeing how people make their homes unique.
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IMO, one of the worst parts of renting is drilling holes into the walls. It’s the one project that makes my security deposit quiver, and one I avoid at all costs (hello, Command strips!). But IKEA has a best-selling light that is drill-free, easily movable, and blends into any room: the NÄVLINGE clamp spotlight

What Is IKEA’s NÄVLINGE Light?

IKEA’s NÄVLINGE clamp spotlight is a light fixture with a (surprise!) clamp on the bottom that lets it be moved anywhere around the home — no tools necessary. It’s perfect for renters and college kids who want their security deposits back. Instead of having to drill a hole to install permanent fixtures, you can simply clip it onto a shelf, table, desk, headboard, countertop, or cabinet. But it turns out, it also looks wonderful in permanent homes, too. 

I first spotted the clamp spotlight in the video above, which tours Elisabeth Riksen’s light-filled factory apartment in Oslo (among several other international-based homes). Although Elisabeth has a collection of over 1,000 books and cares for over 100 indoor plants, the space doesn’t feel cluttered. I believe that’s in large part due to her minimalist-inspired decor, including the clamp spotlight and another NÄVLINGE tabletop lamp.

The spotlight has an almost five-star rating and is listed as one of IKEA’s best-selling products (the same goes for the tabletop version). It comes in three colors, including white, black, and a lilac-green combination. Speaking of green, the Swedish brand boasts its light source uses up to 85% less energy and lasts 20 times longer than a traditional incandescent bulb. The best part? It fits in everywhere because it’s so slim and minimalist. 

On IKEA’s website, reviewers say the direct light is great for hobbies, including reading. “I love the ease of just clamping the light on my headboard without the need of drilling any holes on the wall for a lamp,” Susan, an IKEA shopper, wrote. “The lamp was exactly what I needed!” 

Lawrence, another IKEA shopper, added: “This is a perfect light for small area. It is not big and does not use any space valuable space. Concentrated light where you need it.”

IKEA’s NÄVLINGE clamp spotlight simply makes life easier. No tools necessary, no dreadful wall holes, and the ability to move it wherever you want. One reviewer even mentioned using it next to their stove while cooking. If you want a light that works well in any space, for any activity, consider this clamp spotlight. 

There are many more clever products to discover than just this spotlight. Check out all the House Tours featured in this post’s video roundup.

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