TikTok's IKEA Hack Completely Disguises Dreaded Flush Mount Light Fixtures

Depending on your tastes, a flush mount light fixture can be an eyesore, but how can you get rid of it? Thankfully, rather than removing the entire apparatus and spending a pretty penny, you can utilize a hack from TikTok user @stephaniemichelle_athome, who showed viewers how to use an IKEA NYMÖ lampshade to mask the unsightly fixture. Apply this trick in your own home and your space will look infinitely more put-together. The alternative — removing the fixture and replacing it with a new one — may seem like an attractive option, but it may not be within your budget.

This hack doesn't just save you potential dollars, though — it's also pretty stylish and renter-friendly. If you have several flush mount lights around your home, this provides a quick, easy solution, and you can use it in as many rooms as you want. All you'll need is an IKEA NYMÖ lampshade (though you'll need a few if you're covering multiple lights); the retail chain sells these for $58 apiece, but @stephaniemichelle_athome claims to have found theirs for $10 on Facebook Marketplace. Let's break down how you can use this lampshade to get the job done.

Once you have your lampshade, you just have to attach it to your flush mount fixture. To do so, remove the glass dome covering the light and set the hardware aside. Place the lampshade on the rod and reconnect the hardware so it holds the shade in place. If you don't have much DIY experience, move cautiously and don't rush; fortunately, if you don't get the placement right the first time, re-adjust the shade should be easy. As for the original glass, stow it away somewhere safe in case you need to return it when you move house. While you're completing this hack, remember to keep the light switched off, as this will prevent you from scalding yourself on a hot bulb.

Now that your lampshade is secure, you should be left with a light fixture that easily disguises your original flush mount and provides a more stylish effect. If you can still see the flush fixture above the lampshade, try adjusting its height. Even if you're not a fan of the particular shade design @stephaniemichelle_athome used, there are other options out there that can help you achieve the perfect lighting for your space.

One way to customize this hack is to experiment with different product styles, such as IKEA's RINGSTA shade for $17.99 or the VINGMAST for $45.99. These are just two other options, but there are plenty of others on the company's website that may better suit your interior. Your choices will also depend on your budget and your desired aesthetic for each room where you intend to use this trick. Of course, if you have one, you can always upcycle an old lampshade. This is a great way to save money and hide your unsightly light fixture at the same time.

One caveat to keep in mind before you spend any money, though, is that this hack may not work for all fixture types, particularly those that don't have a rod. Without this feature, connecting a shade will be much more challenging, and you may want to seek out easy ways to replace your light fixture. Likewise, if your fixture does have a rod, make sure it's not too small for the shade; otherwise, it may not effectively create your desired look. If you're unsure about a specific lampshade, you might want to consider buying a few, testing out which one works best, and returning the rejects.