10 Closet Lighting Options to Easily See Your Clothes, Pantry Items, and More (2025)

Our Top Picks

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, 7 inches, could even fit on narrow 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: Walk in, find what you need, and walk out without worrying about the light switch.

The light 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}

The Brilliant Evolution Wireless LED Puck Light is a great way to get the look of custom lighting on a budget. The three pucks are controlled by a remote and you can place them exactly where you need them in your space.

We also love that they come with sticky pads to hang them easily without damaging walls—a great feature for renters. Each puck requires three AAA batteries, which is surprising for their complex size, but we still appreciate the convenience of replacing them compared to complex electrical installation.

You can set a timer for the lights or turn them on by tapping the button on each light. The included remote also allows you to change the temperature between warm white, neutral, or cool white. Be mindful that if you install the lights too high, it will be difficult to reach them without the remote handy.

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

Track lighting adds 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 oil-rubbed bronze—so you can easily match the other fixtures in your closet. The three lights on each bar 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 the lights are on a track. However, you may want a professional to install the light if you don't have an existing electrical hookup in your closet.

This track light requires 50-watt light bulbs, which aren’t as energy-efficient as LEDs and tend to get hot when on for a long time. We love that it is dimmable, but you’ll need to purchase a coordinating switch separately if you don't already have one in your closet.

_{Type: Track | Bulb type: Fluorescent | Brightness: Not applicable | Power source: Wired}

The gorgeous Willa Arlo Interiors Wilmes Chandelier is a standout light fixture with light-catching crystal leaves and twisting iron branches. This chandelier is a great option for larger walk-in closets that may also double as vanity dressing rooms. We also think it's a great way to add interest to a space without getting into the weeds with a custom closet kit or other design elements.

The chain on this chandelier is adjustable to make it anywhere between 58 inches and 18.6 inches long, so it's even compatible with closets with lower ceilings. The mounting plate is also adaptable for sloped ceilings so it could even fit in small attic closets.

The exposed bulbs limit the type of lightbulb you can purchase, and this fixture will require more frequent dusting compared to the enclosed options on our list like the Lithonia Lighting LED Flush Mount (best overall). However, we think its statement-making design is worth the extra care.

_{Type: Chandelier | Bulb type: Incandescent | Brightness: Not applicable | Power source: Wired}

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 and convenient than your average closet light fixture.It’s perfect to use in unheated, uncooled spaces, or damp areas. The light uses a motion sensor to detect movement and turn it on.

We particularly like that this light can be positioned and angled 180 degrees, giving you a beam of brightness exactly where you need it (though it’s best to do this while mounting it). Installation is easy, and since it runs on three AAA batteries, it’s low maintenance.

This compact light is super bright and can be even uncomfortably bright when pointed in the wrong direction. Additionally, the motion sensor and automatic shut-off functionality can drain batteries quickly, depending on how often you frequent the closet.

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

We love the flexibility of the Lightbiz LED Closet Light. This bright, energy-efficient light bar is magnetic, easily sticking to a range hood, a metallic bathroom mirror, or a metal closet rack. A magnetic, adhesive strip is also included to place this light on a closet wall or other non-magnetic surface.

The fixture runs on a rechargeable battery that connects via USB, meaning you never have to swap out the batteries. Each full charge gives up to six hours of continuous light, which isn't that long if you plan to leave this light in its "always on" mode. However, there’s also a motion sensor setting to save battery power. It detects motion within 10 feet and turns off after 20 seconds without movement.

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

The Dalattin Smart Wi-Fi LED Strip Lights are versatile and adjustable, you can light up even the most compact closet. The strip can be placed almost anywhere, like under shelving, on the floor, or around individual hanging areas. There are color settings, and you can sync the lights to music.

These lights are compatible with smart home devices, including Amazon Alexa and Google Home. An included remote and smartphone app also allows you to adjust the settings and color.

However, these strip lights don’t emit strong light compared to an overhead fixture like the Honwell Motion Sensor Wireless Light (best for utility closets). Strip lights provide more of a glow and establish ambiance than actual visibility.

If you want just enough light to be able to see where you’re going or light up individual shelves, these lights are 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}

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 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. It's a dimmable fixture, though you’ll need a separate dimmable light switch to use this feature. Inside the light, LEDs make for an energy-efficient power source requiring minimal power.

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 including the cost of professional installation and extras like additional wiring or junction boxes. However, it’s hard to top its bright illumination for dark closets.

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

Opt for lighting compatible with your smart home for added convenience and adjustability. 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 the smartphone app; or, use voice commands via your Google Home or Amazon Alexa. We love that you can easily adjust the color, brightness, and warmth.

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: 2,000 lumens | Power source: Corded electric}

Create a luxurious and practical in-closet vanity with the Orren Ellis Rectangle LED Wall Mirror. The full-length mirror comes with an LED strip light that borders it, providing a ton of brightness so you can see yourself clearly before heading out for the day.

In addition to the 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 a 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 best overall light, 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. The Brilliant Evolution Wireless LED Puck, our best budget light, is available in a set of three, and you won’t need to perform any complex installation or wiring.

FAQ

• What is closet-rated lighting?

  Because they’re often small, enclosed spaces, closets have strict code rules around appropriate lighting. 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 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.”

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