How to Buy an Oil Lamp

With the flickering of the flame, an oil lamp can help create a welcoming mood. Oil lamps are available in a variety of styles and materials, from contemporary to traditional. Here are some ideas to warm your outdoor or indoor living space with style.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Check out the two types of wicks available. The types will be either cotton or fiberglass. The fiberglass types usually will last longer than the cotton.

2. Decide if you want to use it indoors or outdoors. Outdoor types will be made of durable materials such as brass, aluminum or copper. Typically, indoor types are smaller than outdoor types.

3. Look at comparison shopping websites. These sites will provide you with reviews of various types of lamps at once. Some of these websites will also provide consumer opinions of products for your review.

4. Buy from manufacturers that include oil and wicks with your purchase. You won't have to make a separate trip to pick up supplies and you can test their oil to see if you like it.

5. Base the kind that you choose on your current decorating style. If you tend to have a contemporary feel in your house, then buy an oil lamp with sleek lines and simple form to light up your patio. Replicas of biblical lamps are available for an old feel look. Also, decide whether you prefer metal or colored glass.

6. Look for antique styles at garage sales or antique stores. The glass globes have probably been replaced over the years, but the lamp itself will still be useful and interesting.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that it's the oil that's actually burning and not the wick.
• If you buy scented oil, you'll only smell the aroma after you blow out the wick and not during the burning process.