A salt lamp is an ambient lamp like any other lamp. Used correctly, it is not dangerous. There are, however, a few points to pay extra attention to with a salt lamp, because it is made of real salt: salt attracts moisture, the bulb makes it warm and animals like the taste of salt. In this article you will find the 7 most important points.
In short: use a good cable with a switch, place the lamp in a dry spot with a coaster, keep it away from children and pets, and switch it on regularly.
1. Use a good cable and bulb holder
A damaged cord, a loose switch or a corroded bulb holder is the biggest risk with any lamp. Check the cable now and then. Do you see cracks, exposed wire or salt deposits on the bulb holder? Then stop using the lamp and replace the cable with a white or black power cable with on/off switch.
2. Use the right bulb
Use an E14 incandescent bulb with the wattage that suits your lamp (7, 15 or 25 watts) and never more than stated on the bulb holder. Read more in Bulbs for your salt lamp: which bulb and how to replace it?
3. Place the lamp in a dry spot
Salt attracts moisture from the air. In a damp room, a salt lamp can start to 'sweat' and release droplets. That moisture should not reach the bulb holder or the cord. So don't place a salt lamp in the bathroom, in the kitchen next to the kettle, in the cellar or next to a humidifier. Don't run the cord underneath the lamp. Read more in Why is my salt lamp leaking?
4. Use a coaster
Place the lamp on its wooden base and, if you like, on a coaster made of cork, glass or wood. This keeps moisture away from your furniture and keeps the lamp stable.
5. Keep space clear around the lamp
The bulb warms up the salt stone. Don't place the lamp against curtains, cushions or other fabric, and don't cover it. That way the heat can escape.
6. Keep away from children
A salt lamp is heavy and gets warm. Place it in a stable spot where young children can't pull it over, and tuck the cord away. For a child's room, a small night light is often more practical. Read more in Salt lamp in the nursery or child's bedroom.
7. Take care with cats and dogs
This point is often overlooked. Cats and dogs like the taste of salt and may start licking a salt lamp. Ingesting too much salt is dangerous for animals and can lead to salt poisoning. So place a salt lamp where your pet can't reach it, or choose a different lamp if your cat jumps on everything. Do you notice your pet drinking a lot, vomiting or becoming lethargic after contact with the lamp? Then contact your vet.
Can a salt lamp stay on all night?
Yes. A salt lamp can stay on for long periods, provided the cable is in good condition and the lamp has space around it. Leaving it on regularly is actually good for the lamp: the warmth keeps it dry.
Frequently asked questions
Can a salt lamp cause a fire?
A salt lamp itself is not flammable, but as with any lamp, a damaged cable or bulb holder can pose a risk. Check the cable and don't place the lamp against fabric.
Is a salt lamp harmful to your health?
No. A salt lamp is an ambient lamp. Read about the claims you come across online in Are salt lamps healthy? Facts and myths.
My salt lamp is leaking. Is that dangerous?
The moisture itself is not dangerous, but keep it away from the cord and bulb holder. Place the lamp in a dry spot and switch it on more often.
