How to add under-shelf lighting in your garage

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Introduction

A well-lit garage can make all the difference in how functional and enjoyable it is to work in. One of the most practical and affordable upgrades you can make is installing under-shelf lighting. Whether you’re working at a bench, organizing tools, or finding small parts, this targeted lighting brightens up shadowy spots and improves visibility.

Learning how to add under-shelf lighting in your garage is a project that most DIYers can complete in under an hour per shelf, with minimal tools and at a low cost.

Why Under-Shelf Lighting is a Great Garage Upgrade

  • Improved visibility: Direct light exactly where you need it—perfect for detail work.
  • Better organization: Makes it easier to find small items stored beneath shelves.
  • Energy efficiency: LED strip or puck lights consume less power than overhead fixtures.
  • Simple installation: Many options require no wiring skills and plug right into a standard outlet.
  • Enhanced workspace: Transforms dim work areas into productive stations.

Whether your garage serves as a workshop, craft area, or storage space, this upgrade will make it brighter and more functional.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Under-Shelf Lighting in Your Garage

Safety First

If you choose a hardwired lighting option, ensure power is turned off at the breaker before starting work. For plug-in LED kits, you can safely install them with the power on, but always follow manufacturer safety guidelines.

1. Choose the Right Type of Under-Shelf Lighting

The three most common garage-friendly options are:

  1. LED Strip Lights – Flexible, adhesive-backed strips that provide continuous light along the shelf’s length.
  2. Puck Lights – Small, round fixtures ideal for spot lighting or accent lighting.
  3. LED Light Bars – Rigid, linear fixtures that are easy to mount and offer bright, even light.

Pro Tip: For workbench areas, choose bright, daylight-balanced LEDs (5000–6500K) for the most accurate color and detail visibility.

2. Gather Tools and Materials

You’ll need:

  • Lighting kit of your choice (LED strips, puck lights, or light bars)
  • Mounting hardware or adhesive tape (often included in the kit)
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil or marker
  • Screwdriver or drill (if using screw-mounted lights)
  • Extension cord (if needed)
  • Cable clips or zip ties for tidy wire management

3. Plan the Installation

  • Measure the length of the shelf to determine how much lighting you’ll need.
  • Locate the nearest power source.
  • Decide whether you want the lights to be always on, switched, or motion-activated.

Pro Tip: If you have multiple shelves, plan your wiring so all lights can connect to the same power source for convenience.

4. Prepare the Shelf Underside

  • Wipe the underside of the shelf with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt.
  • For adhesive strip lights, ensure the surface is completely dry for proper adhesion.
  • For screw-mounted lights, mark hole positions in advance to make installation easier.

5. Install the Lights

For Adhesive LED Strip Lights:

  1. Peel off the adhesive backing a few inches at a time.
  2. Press the strip firmly along the underside of the shelf.
  3. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for connecting to the power adapter.

For Puck Lights:

  1. Attach mounting brackets with screws or adhesive pads.
  2. Snap each puck into place.
  3. Connect to the power source.

For LED Light Bars:

  1. Screw or clip the bar fixture into place.
  2. Plug in and test before finalizing cable management.

6. Manage the Cables

  • Use cable clips, zip ties, or adhesive-backed cord channels to keep wires neat.
  • Route cables along the underside of the shelf supports or wall edges to avoid tangles.

7. Connect to Power and Test

  • Plug in the lights and turn them on to check brightness and coverage.
  • If using motion-activated or switched lights, test those functions as well.

Optional: Hardwiring the Lights

For a cleaner look, you can hardwire under-shelf lighting to an existing switch or circuit. This option requires:

  • Cutting and stripping wires
  • Connecting black to hot, white to neutral, and green/bare to ground
  • Securing connections with wire nuts and electrical tape

Important: Only attempt hardwiring if you have electrical experience or hire a licensed electrician.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Mistake: Choosing lights that are too dim.
    Solution: Opt for at least 300–500 lumens per foot for task lighting.
  2. Mistake: Ignoring power outlet locations.
    Solution: Plan light placement based on proximity to outlets or prepare to run extension cords neatly.
  3. Mistake: Poor adhesion of strip lights.
    Solution: Clean surfaces thoroughly before applying and press firmly during installation.
  4. Mistake: Overlooking color temperature.
    Solution: Choose daylight LEDs (5000–6500K) for work areas; warm white (2700–3000K) for ambient lighting.
  5. Mistake: Exposed dangling cords.
    Solution: Use cord covers or clips for a professional look and safety.

Extra Garage Tips & Hacks

  • Add a Motion Sensor Plug: Saves energy by turning lights on only when you enter the workspace.
  • Link Multiple Light Sets: Many LED kits allow daisy-chaining for multiple shelves.
  • Combine with Overhead Lighting: A mix of overhead and under-shelf lighting eliminates shadows completely.

For more garage lighting ideas, check out our guide on How to Install LED Lighting in Your Garage for full-room brightness.

Conclusion

Adding under-shelf lighting in your garage is a quick, affordable, and highly functional upgrade. With the right lights and a simple installation process, you can brighten your workspace, improve visibility, and make your garage safer and more efficient.

Final Tip: Invest in high-quality LED lighting—cheap options may dim quickly or fail prematurely.

CTA: Bookmark this guide and start transforming your garage into a well-lit, organized, and productive space today.