Guide to Christmas lights
There's nothing quite like the twinkling glow of decorative lights to let you know that Christmas is almost here! With so many types to choose from, our essential guide will help you pick the perfect lights to create a dazzling display indoors and out. It’s one of the simplest ways to bring the magic of Christmas into your home, no matter the size of your space
At Dobbies we have a huge selection of Christmas lights to choose from, such as string lights for your Christmas tree or novelty characters for your doorstep. All our lights are LED, which is safer and brighter than old-style bulbs. Not only does this give you the best-looking displays, but also keeps your Christmas energy and cosy efficient
Since it can often be hard to find exactly what you’re looking for, we’ve put together this handy guide to hopefully help you discover the right lights for your home and create dazzling displays that ensure your home stands out from the rest this Christmas
TOP SAFETY TIP: Before buying your Christmas lights, check whether they’re designed for indoor or outdoor use. You can often use outdoor lights both outdoors and in, but using indoor lighting outside could potentially blow a fuse
Each type of Christmas light is suited to different parts of your home and garden, so before you start buying, make sure to decide first where you’d like to put your lights
Make sure to also consider if you have a preferred colour scheme. Our range of Christmas lights are available in many different colours. You might prefer the classic bright whites and icy blues inspired by our Snow and Sparkle theme. Or maybe a flash of multi-coloured magic like our Colour Pop theme is more your style
If you’re still not sure what style you’re looking for, then this guide is sure to spark some inspiration!
Battery Operated Christmas Lights
Battery powered lights are preferred by most people as they’re easy to set up and use. You don’t need a power socket for them to function. Most of our Christmas lights are battery operated, which is especially useful for creating outdoor light displays where you don’t have access to an external power socket. Indoors, they’re perfect for lighting up hard to reach areas such as table centrepieces or shelves, without having trailing wires across the room
Mains Operated Christmas Lights
If you have an easy to access outdoor power socket you can use mains-powered lights. These are a great option and give you a diverse choice of decorations to choose from for indoor and outdoor displays
TOP SAFETY TIP: Think about weatherproofing your outdoor sockets to protect plugs and cables from the rain and snow
Timer Switches
Take away the hassle of turning your lights on and off with the use of timer switches. Timer switches automatically control your indoor and outdoor lights, saving you worry, time and energy. Many of our lights are compatible with the EasyTimer by Noma. You can find instructions on how to use this timer alongside a video demonstration in our guide.
Some of our other Christmas lights have a built-in timer function, meaning you don’t have to invest in extra equipment to achieve a scheduled lights display
Christmas String Lights
String lights are classic Christmas lights, most often used to decorate Christmas trees. They can be used in other area of the home too, such as wrapped around a staircase, or even outdoors on fences. String lights are quick and easy to hang. As well as having different lighting effects, such as a consistent glow or shimmering sparkle, they come in many fun and festive shapes like stars, berries, and icicles. We have string lights available in different colours too that will really transform your home into something enchanting, from multi-coloured fairy lights to bright or warm white cluster lights
Curtain Lights
Curtain lights are strings of twinkling fairy lights that can be draped over windows, doorways or walls to enhance your holiday decor. They come in many different shapes, colours and patterns to create a cascading effect that also adds a touch of Christmas magic and warmth to any room
Novelty Lights
Make a fun statement in your garden and capture the true meaning of festive joy with our Novelty Christmas lights. We have several Christmas 3D shapes and figures to choose from such as reindeers, snowmen, penguins and robins. Group two or three figures together to build a festive scene in your front garden that will spark joy to those passing by. Why not go the extra mile and create a show-stopping display on your roof? Just remember to be careful with ladders and cables!
Lit Garlands
Make sure every area of your home is sparkling this Christmas with our light-up garland lights. These lights are twig-like in shape, with some varieties mixed with faux foliage to add a touch of nature to your decor. Dangle garland lights from your mantlepieces in your sitting rooms and bask in their warm festive glow as you watch your favourite Christmas film or dive into your Christmas Eve box with the family
Infinity Lights
Your outdoor Christmas light displays will have brand new dimension with infinity lights. When lit up at night, these lights create a magical infinity mirror effect which never fails to look magnificent. They come in fun, bright colours and novelty shapes such as a Christmas Gonk, robin and even a festive dog! Just one or two of these lights will give your garden the wow-factor this year
Pathfinder Lights
Light up your pathways or driveway and give your guests a warm welcome with pathfinder stake lights. These lights are designed to provide a cheerful illumination to your outdoor decor, offering a variety of lighting modes – from a steady glow to twinkling effects. We have a selection of pathfinder lights available in the shape of candy canes, Christmas trees, stars, and many more joyful designs
Neon Lights
Create a unique and vibrant twist to traditional Christmas decorations with neon lights. Their bold, eye-catching colours and festive shapes are perfect for creating a Christmassy yet retro atmosphere when hung on walls, both indoors and out. Neon lights make for dazzling, memorable displays that really captures the warm fuzzy feeling of Christmastime
TOP SAFETY TIP: Keep pets and little ones away from Christmas lights – remember that plugs, cables and active electricity can be dangerous! Hang your lights out of reach or conceal cable and sockets if possible
For more ideas on styling your home this year, make sure to read through our dedicated Christmas inspiration and advice hub or shop with us in-store to uncover our full range of Christmas lights