Clap lights feel so nostalgic. Growing up, I saw them in reruns of '80s sitcoms and later used as a gimmick on channels like Disney. The idea is a little corny, sure, but fun? You bet. The notion of commanding the room with the clap of a hand blew my adolescent mind. Of course, now that we've digitized everything, there are lights that can be controlled from a phone. But what these lights lack is the drama of a clap — you simply can’t beat it!
I had all but forgotten about the bedroom lighting idea until I came across a video by TikTok creator Anna Barger. She’s in the process of decorating her room, having just recently purchased a new bed frame that looks great but, due to its awkward shape, doesn’t bode so well for her shins. Her solution? Don’t get out of bed. But how then will she turn her bedroom lights on and off? And then it hit her.
@annabarger clap lamp nostalgia level 10000
♬ Can I Call You Tonight? - Dayglow
A clap light! More specifically, The Clapper — a sound-activated light switch that first came onto the market in 1984. It works with not one, but two home devices at once, so it's perfect for Anna’s need of controlling the lights flanking either side of her bed.
But consider the possibilities! Come Christmas, imagine never having to return to that awkward hunched position to turn off your tree lights. Or not having to leave the sofa to switch on a fan during a swelteringly hot day. And laziness aside, The Clapper really is a godsend for anyone with limited mobility.
The Viral Clap Light
The device is remarkably easy to use. Simply set your noise sensitivity level, plug a device (or two) of choice into The Clapper, and then plug The Clapper into a wall outlet. Voila! Lights are controlled like magic.
Free from issues? Well, in the TikTok, Anna did get off to a bit of a rough start, but she got the hang of it after a few tries. Also, be aware that the device doesn't selectively listen to claps — there is always the chance that The Clapper turns on or off in response to loud noises in your environment.
Despite the slightly finicky nature of this very '80s device, all in all, it works quite well (4/5 stars out of 13,722 ratings). Plus, at just $20, it’s well worth it for the sake of entertainment.
More Wireless Lights
If you're as intrigued by unconventional lighting ideas as I am, I've compiled some additional options below.
Price: $33.99
These Smart Switches are like the ultra-modernized version of The Clapper. They can be controlled via app, but also Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, allowing you to command the room with just your voice.
Price: $89.99
These sconces not only look great, but they don’t require any wiring. Amazingly, they magnetically attach to your wall and can be controlled via remote, thanks to a battery-operated design. Perfect for renters or for elevating an office space.
Price: $16.99
Was: $22.99
These LED light plug-ins offer a white ambient glow in response to dusk and dawn, providing the perfect level of light needed for your space — never too soft, and never too bright. If you’re looking illuminate your path in the evening, they also make for wonderful hallway lights.
Price: $149.92
Was: $174.99
If you thought The Clapper was magical, then get a load of this: a light switch that operates without batteries, wires, or wifi. How? Kinetic energy, so it won’t run out of power — ever. Mount one to any hard surface (even the arm of a chair) and prepare to be amazed.
Price: $16.99
This elegant motion sensor light adds a sense of serenity to any space, indoors or outdoors, due to its battery-operated design. Easy on the eyes, it’s an ideal night light option that also looks great during the day.
Price: $150
Let’s face it: cords are clunky. Most lamps use them, especially classic ones like this. But Pooky’s rechargeable table lamp changes the game with its portable beauty. Choose from a range of stylish lamp shades to suit your preferences.
Price: $26.99
Was: $31.98
This motion sensor light is a warm welcome to any room. It turns lights on upon arrival, without the need of reaching around for a switch. Particularly well-suited for large, dark spaces like a basement or garage.
Price: $28.99
Was: $35.99
A painting light instantly elevates even the simplest of pieces. If you’re not looking to hire an electrician, then this wall-mounted light is an absolute godsend. Its experience is also highly customizable with its remote-controlled lighting intensity and movable head — just perfection.
Price: $29.98
Was: $34.91
Rounding off this list is an absolute game changer: under-cabinet lighting. And these strips are remarkably easy to install: simply stick and voila! An ambient, showroom-like kitchen lighting upgrade that only needs to be recharged every 4-6 weeks. Oh, and they detect motion, too.
This viral Nate Berkus-designed kitchen organizer quickly declutters a counter — chicly, I might add.
