Best Oil Lamps – 2021 Guide
Brian 
Ana Since the start of human life on earth, our ancestors have made lighting part of their everyday lives. Looking back several thousand decades ago, our forefathers used the same components of an oil lamp that we use today.
However, since the discovery of the fluorescent lamp and LED lamps, people no longer use oil lamps as part of their daily regimen.
These lamps range from rustic type to elegant type, to the traditional lamp that some of us have outgrown. Having them is a great alternative when there is a power interruption. The bright and reliable light of the traditional oil lamp will definitely illuminate your home.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 12 hrs of research
Very cost-efficient with a burning rate of an ounce per hour only
The larger fuel tank can burn up to 45 hours
Two sizes and colors offer more personalization
Larger base offers stability
A reliable name you can trust in terms of lamp making
Top 10 Picks
1. Dietz Little Wizard
Very cost-efficient with a burning rate of an ounce per hour only
The larger fuel tank can burn up to 45 hours
Two sizes and colors offer more personalization
Larger base offers stability
A reliable name you can trust in terms of lamp making
Manufacturing flaws could cause leaks in the seams
It could be difficult to remove the fuel once the lamp is filled
If you are looking for a compact and classic design that can be easily kept away, the Dietz Little Wizard is perfect for you. This classic from Dietz can light for 24 hours. It is fuel-efficient as even after 12 hours of burning, there is very little drop in the level of fuel.
Read moreDurability
This oil lamp is made of galvanized steel. It is enclosed in glass to shield its flame from strong wind and other outdoor elements.
Features
The Dietz Little Wizard comes in a couple of varying designs. You can avail the standard and the one with a smaller fuel container. Aside from its design choices, it is also available in two different colors.
It has a wider base that offers more stability and will not be easily knocked down due to unintended tipping.
Style
This type has a large fuel container that requires little refueling. It offers a longer-lasting light. It can sustain the entire duration of one entire day or one entire night. The 36-ounce fuel container can burn for 45 hours.
Size
This option has a product dimension of 11.8-inches x 7.8-inches x 7.8-inches. It has an overall shipping weight of 1.8 pounds.
2. Glo Brite
Elegant design
Hourglass chimney casts light uniformly and covers wider area
More compact than other lamps in the market
Made of thick glass that can withstand a lot of heat
Has no frame that prevents from burning the user
Does not come with a wick or a base
The Glo Brite made by 21st Century is the ideal lamp if you are looking for an option with a classy and vintage look. Its hourglass design appears to amplify the amount of light scattered uniformly shining in a much wider area.
Read moreDurability
This lamp is made from strong galvanized steel and thick glass. It is shaped like an hourglass that gives it a more classy feel.
Features
The Glo Brite oil lamp has a classic chimney design. It has a couple of systems that require a burner for its base. This feature gives you more ways to customize your lamp according to your taste. It also allows you to choose the type of fuel container and the size of the fuel tank. You can also customize it with a larger fuel tank with a wider base to avoid it getting easily knocked.
Style
The Glo Brite lamp spreads light uniformly. The glass captures the light rays coming from the fire and refracts it across the room.
Size
The Glo Brite has a product dimension of 5-inches x 5-inches x 13-inches. It has a total shipping weight of only 2.4 pounds.
3. Dietz Original 76
9 candlepower that can provide sufficient light
Compact design that allows you to easily carry it
Available in various colors
Can sustain burning for up to 11 hours
Customers complain that the lever used to lower and raise the globe are not easy to operate
Has a narrow base, which could not provide enough stability
The Dietz 76 is the best choice if you are looking for a compact and cost-efficient lamp that retains an elegant and classy look. It comes with a base and a wick and simply requires you to fuel it to make it work. This lamp is available in 6 different colors.
Read moreDurability
This lamp is made from thick glass and galvanized steel that can withstand a lot of heat.
Features
In addition to being an all-inclusive and compact lamp, all of its parts can be individually ordered and replaced. You can be assured that if some of its parts got damaged or broken, you can have it replaced as soon as possible. It is also cost and fuel-efficient. It burns only an ounce of fuel in an hour.
Style
The Dietz 76 is a compact and portable lamp that you can bring with you wherever you go. You can bring it to camping, boating, and other outdoor activities.
Size
The Dietz 76 has an overall product dimension of 6-inches x 4.5-inches x 10-inches. It has a shipping weight of 1.19 pounds.
4. Feuerhand Hurricane
Designed to prevent the flames from flickering and from producing soot
Fuel container is covered with a special material to prevent leaking
Made of galvanized steel
Powder coated to resist rust, water, and rust
Comes with an extra wick
Some customers find the turn knob of the wick hard to turn
Screw for the fuel container is sometimes very tight
The Feurhand Hurricane Lamp is the ideal choice if you are looking for a vintage and classic depiction of the original fuel lamp. It is available in various colors that allow you to choose the color that suits your taste.
Read moreDurability
The Feurhand Hurricane lamp is made of galvanized steel and thick heavy-duty glass. Its part made of galvanized steel is painted with a powder coat that will resist rust, scratch, and even heat. It is built to withstand all types of weather conditions.
Features
This type of lamp provides an impressive source of light. It is very helpful in times of emergencies. It has a large fuel container that can accommodate 10-ounce of fuel. It comes with an extra wick to make sure that you can use it in case of an emergency.
Style
This option comes in a traditional style and is available in 6 different colors. It is built to withstand tough environments. It is powder-coated that can resist all types of weather. The oil lamp contains burner elements that restrict the flickering and sooting of the burning flames.
Size
The Feuerhand Hurricane lamp has a product dimension of 6-inches x 6-inches x 10-inches. It has a weight of only one pound and has a total shipping weight of 1.1 pounds.
5. Firefly Fuel
Made of hand-blown glass
Has an opening the same as the size of a wine bottle
Comes with a PDF version of users’ manual
Made with a fiberglass wick that can last longer
The globe makes the product bulky
The glass design is more fragile since it is thinner compared to other glass
The Firefly Fuel wine bottle lamp is the ideal option if you are looking for a unique item that you can also use for decorating your house. Since it is hand-blown, it means that it is smooth and thin. This restricts any blemishes or glare on the glass.
Read moreDurability
This is made from borosilicate glass. It is uniquely made to be on top of a glass wine bottle and a wick that can be lowered down into the bottle where the fuel is stored. The globe of this lamp is hand-blown, which amplifies the unique features.
Features
It is designed with a large globe that encloses the wick to allow more air circulation. The air circulating within the globe allows the creation of a larger flame. The globe can be easily stored when not in use. It provides an untainted and bright light. It is also cost and fuel efficient.
Style
The style of this lamp is very unique. It is fairly priced with its simple design that complements its price and value.
Size
This can fit regular sizes of wine bottles. Height is 6 inches tall, the width of the neck is 1-3/8 inches, the height of the neck is 2-1/2 inches and the globe’s widest point is 3-7/8 inches.
6. Lamplight 52664
Made of copper metal
Can continuously burn for 15 hours
Can be used as a table lamp and can be wall mounted
Very affordable
Some customers complain about the packaging used in shipping
The Lamplight 52664 is the ideal lamp if you want something that is best for an outdoor setting. It does not easily run out of fuel so you are assured that it can burn for long hours. In fact, it can shine up to 15 hours.
Read moreDurability
This option is made of copper metal which assured durability and safety when it comes to use.
Features
The lamp has a fuel container that can hold up to 5 ounces of fuel. It isn't one the largest containers that we've seen so far, but it still grants 12-15 hours of burning.
Style
This type can be used as a table lamp and it's perfect for gardens. It is versatile and can be mounted to the wall for additional design. On normal days, you can utilize it as a source of your everyday light.
Size
The size of the lamp is 4.69 x 4.69 x 12 inches. It has a total weight of 5 pounds only.
7. Vermont Lanterns
Screw in the mounting bracket can be easily moved so you can reposition it anywhere you like
Comes in four various styles
Can continuously burn for 10 hours
Has a small fuel tank that requires you to refuel it frequently
Only has 2 candle power, which provides just enough light
The Vermont Lantern Brass Mini is the ideal choice if you are looking for a simple and well-balanced option. It can provide light for 10 long hours. You can use it on your table or use a mounting bracket to mount it on the wall.
Read moreDurability
This lamp is made of high-quality solid brass that is resistant to proof and corrosion. It has a thick glass that can withstand long hours of exposure to heat caused by the burning flame.
Features
The Vermont Lantern Brass Mini is one of the best-selling lamps by this brand. It is simple and can conform to any type of home. The parts in this lamp were made to make sure that it is easy to operate.
Style
This type of lamp has impressive functionality despite its size. It can be both walls mounted and could be a table lamp. It can also be easily lifted and can be used as a good source of light for bathrooms and hallways. It only has 2 candlepower and can hold 2.5 ounces of fuel.
Size
This oil lamp's size is 3-inches x 3-inches x 6.5-inches. It has an item weight of 10.1-ounces and has a total shipping weight of 12 ounces.
8. Light of Mine
Has a unique design
Can use dye to add colors and style to your lamp
With 10 candlepower that can sufficiently supply you with the light that you need
Some customers complain that the wick holder is hard to use
Expensive
The unique oil lamp is the perfect choice if you are looking for an exquisite, colorful option with a touch of a vintage look. It can be placed outdoors but it is best suited in an indoor setting. It has an adjustable flame so you can choose the intensity of the light that you want.
Read moreDurability
It's made of thick glass that can withstand long hours of heat from the burning flame.
Features
The oil lamp features an antique design that is appealing and represents a combination of a rustic and modern vibe. It has a fuel reservoir that can hold up to 40 ounces, giving you the ease of not refueling frequently. It comes with a free 6-inches wick to make sure you do not run out of light especially in emergency situations.
Style
The Crisa Clear Pedestal Lamp is designed with an antique look that makes it stunningly beautiful. It comes with a pedestal lamp base, a glass globe, and a brass burner.
Size
Keep in mind that this option is quite heavy, coming in at 8 pounds.
9. DANFORTH
Holds 5 ounces of oil
Burns for an impressive 15 hours
Pewter for long term durability
Hand blown glass chimney
Hand made in the USA for top quality
The price is higher than some other lamps but it is hand made in the US and built to last
If you are looking for something that offers class and functionality combined with seriously good style? Then, the Pewter Skipper from Danforth will have you pay more but you get more for your money. This lamp hits top marks for performance and it goes further, it is a stylish art deco piece that will light up your home.
Read moreDurability
Not only designed and built to look great but this offers long term durability blended with thoughtful stability and design. The base is pewter, this durable material has been in use as far back as the Romans and that is because it is undeniably durable.
Features
Featuring a pewter base with pleasing contours and seated on a stability dish while topped off by a glass chimney which is hand-blown, this elongated style means broad bathing of light either in the home, on the porch or in the garden. Featuring a tank that can hold five ounces of oil, this means you get a whopping fifteen hours performance.
Style
This lamp is hand-made in the US; care, attention is given priority along with selected durable materials that are crafted to exude lots of individual style.
Size
At slightly over eight inches tall, this slender design can hold good storage of oil and sits in a stable base to ensure it cannot be easily knocked over.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Durability
An oil light has unparalleled power compared to the traditional candles if it has a sufficient fuel tank.
However, the type of fuel utilized as an accelerant is very harmful to the lamp itself that could damage it over time. In order to find better quality lamps, it is important that you consider their resiliency to wear and tear.
For instance, kerosene is a very destructive accelerant. This can be amplified when mixed with extreme temperature making it damaging to your lamp. Among the materials resilient to corrosion are steel and glass. If your lamp has steel, make sure that it is galvanized to withstand potential corrosion.
In addition, you should also choose a lamp that has a wide base. This way, it can provide added stability. You can also choose a wall-mounted lamp which is one of the safest options.
A good lamp should be capable of maintaining the flame. It should be capable of sustaining light without becoming dangerous or unsafe.
Features
In addition to the quality and the material components of the product, another important criterion included in this buying guide is the features of the product.
This aspect will highlight the unique characteristic that it could offer to its users. One important feature of a good lamp is the manufacturer’s warranty. Through time, its components like the glass and other parts will break.
If the manufacturer is confident about the product it is offering, it is highly likely that it will give a warranty.
A manufacturer that offers free wicks and spare parts is also a synonym for quality service. These bonus items play a crucial part in standing out from the rest of the products available on the market today.
Style
Some of you may keep this lamp around for emergency situations, while others may be using it as a daily fixture in the house.
If daily use is the case, the style of the lamp is important. An extremely modern piece won't exactly fit in well with rustic decor. The design of the lamp will also help you to decide if it is a piece that you would prefer to use indoors or outdoors.
The style could also include the different types of oil lighting available today. The type that you use is greatly dependent on the purpose as well as your preferred taste.
A floating wick lamp is typically made of a thin wick that passes through a cork or other material. It is put in a fuel tank or a combination of water and oil. Most often, this type of lamps is utilized as decorative or ornamental lamps.
Another type of oil lamp is the round wick or adjustable flat type. In this type, you will see that the wick is transmitted from the metal burner and into the fuel tank. This type has an adjustable wick that controls the amount of light or flame. Most often, this type of oil lamp has a globe or glass that encloses it to protect the flame from wind and other elements.
Another type of oil lamp is the classic type used in camping. This type of lamp usually uses a fabric mantle enclosed inside the glass and detained by a metal or steel frame. It usually looks like a classic teapot without the cover. It also has a stream for the wick and a handle. The handle can be used to carry the lamp.
Size
Another criterion included in this buying guide is the product specifications.
This includes the overall dimension of the oil lamp. It will also contain the packing details and the shipping weight of the product.
The size of the tank will help to define the amount of oil that you need to put inside the tank. It will also tell you the weight of the entire lamp and the frequency to refuel.
It is important to remember that lamps that require more refueling will be very discouraging to use since it means a lot of effort on your part.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Durability Features Style Size
A concern in choosing a great lamp is that it can provide safety. Try to look for lamps that have adjustable wicks to maintain a small flame. Choose a product that consumes less fuel so in case it is dropped, it is easy to manage.
Always be cautious when you have an oil lamp, especially if it is burning around children. Not only is the flame dangerous, but most of these lamps are made from glass and easily broken if knocked or thrown.
Other Factors to Consider
Ease of Use
A great lamp should be easy to maintain. From its wick which changes its lighting, to its refueling necessities, it should have at least lesser drawbacks. Most lamps are capable of storing sufficient fuel. Others utilize fiberglass filled with a wick which can burn for longer hours.
It is also important to take a look at how easily this lamp can be refueled. If the lamp can light the room but could use up 15 minutes for just refueling, most likely, it will become a pain rather than a solution.
Choose the one that will provide you ease of use especially when refueling it. There are lamps that even provide extra funnel to give its user more convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How much heat can these lamps give off?
The flames of the oil lamp can produce heat that can go beyond 1400 degrees Fahrenheit. In choosing a lamp, make sure that the other components can withstand this kind of heat and can offer you or any user protection from unexpected burns.
Although most of these lamps offer some kind of protection, it is important to use your common sense when utilizing an oil lamp.
q: What types of fuel can I use with it?
You can make a lamp with any oil and wick. However, most modern lamps utilize liquid oil. The most common type of oil is usually called lamp oil. It is actually liquid paraffin.
Most oils made for lamps used in the outdoors include citronella and other added ingredients to produce a scent. These additives are used to fight or ward off bugs.
Other types of lamps employ kerosene, which is often called water clear. Kerosene lamps are most of the time used outdoors because of the smoke they produce.
Keep in mind that the most common type of fuels used is olive oil, paraffin oils, and kerosene oil.
q: What is the role of wick?
The wick is used to transmit the fuel from the fuel tank to the flame. Because of the capillary action, the liquid fuels the wick. This inhibits the wick from totally burning to allow the flame to burn above the surface of the wick. The heat produced singes the top part of the wick. Most users trim the wick regularly to prevent it from smoking. A regularly maintained wick also produces the cleanest and smokeless flame.
There are different types of wicks. It is dependent on the type of lamp and the amount of space available for the wick.
Usually, a round wick gives a clean burn compared to a flat wick.
q: How large of an area can a lamp cover?
The area of the lamp’s coverage is largely dependent on many factors. This includes the ventilation and the layout of the area. Generally, a lamp can cover a thousand square feet in about 30 minutes.
q: How to use an oil lamp?
The beauty of oil lamps is that they are easy to use. Fill up the reservoir with oil and be sure to secure the sealing cap. Adjust the built in wick after lighting it to get the right balance of burn and light. You will know when the balance is right because the wick will not create smoke.
Over time, a wick will burn down so you need to keep an eye on it and adjust it. Lamps tend to use paraffin oil so be sure you buy the correct fuel for your lamp. Using a lamp is simplicity and this is why it has remained practical and popular for thousands of years.
q: How does an oil lamp work?
Oil is held in an airtight chamber and the oil soaks into the wick. When you light the weak and adjust it, there will be a steady smoke free flame and as the oil burns, it is constantly absorbed by the wick at a steady rate.
The wick is encased in a glass chamber which allows light to be dispersed outward's and bathe the immediate surrounding area in light. This design is simple and highly cost-effective.
q: How to remove the burner from an oil lamp?
The burner also known as the wick is very easy to remove. Simply turn the key which operates mini cogs that grip the wick and feed it out of the base container.
To install a new wick, feed it into the top opening until the cog teeth bite, then turn the key to feed the wick into the oil storage chamber.
q: How to dispose of lamp oil?
Lamp oil cannot be disposed of in rivers or natural environments. If you are using a lamp, the issue of disposing of oil is reduced because the oil is used up for burning. Any oil you do want to dispose of must be taken to a recognized waste disposal center.
You can go online to locate places to dispose of lamp oil via safe centers. You can also contact the local government in your city or town and they will direct you to facilities where you can dispose of lamp oil.
However, keep in mind if you are using an oil lamp you are most likely to burn up the oil and not face oil disposal issues.
Sources
- , Oil Lamps and Lamp Oils, Prepper's Blog
- , Kerosene Lanterns – The Best Lamps to Have in an Emergency, Survival Blog
