I Tested And Reviewed 8 Best Recessed Light Bulbs For Kitchen (2023)
When it comes to lighting up your kitchen, choosing the right bulbs for your recessed lighting can make all the difference. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know where to start. Here are a few key factors to consider to help you pick the best recessed light bulbs for your kitchen.
First, think about the amount of light you need. Do you mainly use your kitchen during the day or in the evenings? Consider the size of the room and how much illumination you require for cooking, cleaning, and other tasks. Brighter bulbs like 5000K to 6500K are ideal for task lighting, while lower 3000K to 4000K lights create a softer, more relaxing ambient glow.
Next, decide on the color temperature that suits your decor. Cooler blue-toned lights create an energizing vibe, while warmer options lend a cozy feel. The right bulb color can enhance your design aesthetic. You'll also want to choose the correct shape and size to properly fit your existing recessed lighting fixtures.
And don't forget–how long will the lights last? Bulb longevity ranges wildly, so opt for LEDs or CFLs that promise at least 10,000 hours over standard incandescent. This saves you the hassle of frequent bulb changes. Finally, dimmable bulbs are useful if you want to control the mood and brightness.
Choosing recessed lighting bulbs requires you to think about your needs and lifestyle. With the right pick, your kitchen can become the heart of your home with a lighting scheme tailored exactly for you. Do you yearn for a kitchen flooded with beautiful, useful light? Take a moment to consider what matters most. You're sure to find options to brighten up your cooking and socializing while creating an inviting space you'll adore.
8 Best Recessed Light Bulbs For Kitchen
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1
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The product is ideal for illuminating recessed lighting fixtures with a bright and dimmable daylight white light.
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2
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The product is ideal for brightening indoor spaces with energy-efficient, dimmable lighting and a long lifetime.
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3
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The product is ideal for indoor use, providing warm white light and energy efficiency.
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4
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The product is ideal for lighting cans and providing a dimmable, soft white flood light in residential and commercial spaces.
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5
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The product is ideal for indoor use as a dimmable replacement for 120W incandescent flood lights.
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6
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The product is ideal for illuminating indoor spaces with its dimmable, high-quality BR30 LED bulbs.
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7
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The product is ideal for providing high lumen, dimmable lighting in indoor spaces such as recessed can lights.
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8
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The product is ideal for indoor flood lighting with high brightness, dimmable feature, and flicker-free operation.
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1. Shinestar 6-Pack Dimmable Led Bulbs – Brilliant Daylight
I am extremely pleased with the blue daylight look of these LED bulbs. Unlike the yellowish lights that always make it seem like evening, these bulbs provide a bright and vibrant illumination that I absolutely love.
One of the things I appreciate about these bulbs is that they are perfect for indoor floodlights and can easily replace existing ones without any issues. Another great feature is that they are dimmable, allowing me to adjust the brightness according to my needs. Additionally, I have discovered that in my region, the power company offers promotional deals through local retailers where they subsidize the cost of LED bulbs. I highly recommend checking if your power company offers something similar before making a purchase.
I personally used these bulbs as floodlights on my front porch, and I must say that the light they emit is a crisp white, which is typical for 5000k. These bulbs replaced some old CFL lights that took forever to reach their full brightness. The LED bulbs, on the other hand, turn on instantly and provide a much brighter light. I have no reason to doubt the claim on the box that they are equivalent to 65w, as they certainly live up to their promise.
These LED bulbs fit perfectly into standard sockets and produce a fine, bright white light. While I am content with their performance, I must admit that I do have a preference for the warm ambiance of incandescent bulbs over the sterile white light that these LED bulbs provide. However, if you're looking for a bright and efficient lighting option, these bulbs are definitely worth considering.
Furthermore, I found the packaging of these bulbs to be well-designed, ensuring that each individual bulb is protected during transportation. Along with providing a great light output, these bulbs have the added benefit of being LED, which means they will last much longer than traditional bulbs. This is particularly advantageous for recessed lights in the kitchen, as changing them can be a hassle. With these bulbs, I can expect a longer lifespan and excellent lighting for all my kitchen tasks.
2. Sunco Br30 Led Bulbs – The Ultimate Indoor Lighting Solution!
I recently completed a kitchen remodel and one of the final touches was replacing my old recessed flood lights with the Sunco 11W LED flood lights. The difference in lighting is absolutely amazing! I was tired of the yellow tint and dullness of my old lights, so I decided to give these a try. I couldn't be happier with the results.
The crystal clear white glow and brightness of these lights completely transformed my kitchen. I was even able to see the difference in the before and after pictures I posted. The new lights made the room much brighter, even without the help of natural daylight. My girlfriend was also amazed at the difference when we switched them out.
I initially purchased a different brand, but I found that the color was inconsistent among the bulbs in the pack. However, with the Sunco lights, the coloring is very consistent. They have a slightly whiter tone than the standard 2700K lights, which I personally prefer. They provide the perfect amount of brightness without making my kitchen look like a hospital or office.
I did encounter a minor issue where one bulb failed out of the 16 that I purchased. However, the customer service from Sunco was great. They quickly sent me two replacement bulbs free of charge. It's reassuring to know that the company stands behind their product and takes care of their customers.
Unfortunately, I did experience another issue where two more bulbs failed recently. They went dim while all the other adjacent bulbs were still working fine. This was a bit disappointing as I had initially given these lights a five-star rating. I have reached out to Sunco regarding this issue and I will update or amend my review based on their response.
3. Sunco 6-Pack Br30 Led Flood Lights: Warm And Dimmable!
After trying different options, we found that the 3000k LED bulbs provided the perfect lighting for our home. The light emitted is crisp and neutral, enhancing the colors of our white walls and cabinets without any blue or orange tint. It brings out the beauty of the wood grains and earthy colors in our rustic kitchen, creating a comforting and inviting atmosphere.
We were also pleased to discover that these LED bulbs worked seamlessly with our existing dimmers, without any buzzing or limitations in their range of operation. However, it's important to note that results may vary with different dimmers, so some experimentation may be necessary.
In terms of brightness, these LED bulbs exceeded our expectations. They provided ample light for our kitchen and work area, even without any windows. This is particularly important for us as we use and cook in the kitchen every day.
Furthermore, we appreciate the promise of longevity that these LED bulbs offer. While we have yet to determine their actual lifespan, we are hopeful that they will last a long time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
4. Energysmart Dimmable Led Ceiling Light Bulbs, 6-Pack
After trying out warm white bulbs, we decided to give these bulbs a try and we were pleasantly surprised by the improvement in the quality of light. We found that these bulbs are particularly suited for use in kitchens or offices due to the bright white light they emit. However, we would not recommend them for use in living rooms or bedrooms.
In comparison to our old LCD bulbs, these bulbs made a noticeable difference in the overall lighting experience. The brightness they provide is exceptional and we hope that they will last a long time.
We installed these bulbs in our kitchen and my wife was thrilled with the results. The brightness they offer was exactly what she was looking for in our recessed lighting fixtures. The fit was perfect and we couldn't be happier with the outcome.
We specifically purchased these bulbs for use in dimmable recessed fixtures and they have exceeded our expectations. The bright white light they generate is exactly what we were hoping for. We rarely have to use them on the maximum setting due to the impressive illumination they provide.
One of the standout features of these bulbs is their dimming capability. We were pleased to find that there is no flicker on the low setting, making them perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere. As for longevity, we will update our review in the future weeks to provide a more accurate assessment.
5. Sunco Bright Daylight Br30 Led Bulbs – 6 Pack
I recently purchased both the 5000K and 6000K SUNCO Lights and although there may be a slight difference in certain circumstances, it is not noticeable in our house. These lights are the perfect shape for "fanlights" and easily replace the previous bulbs.
Here are some of the reasons why we love these lights:
1. Dimmable: It is hard to find dimmable lights that are affordable, but these lights fit the bill. They are not only dimmable but also reasonably priced.
2. Heat Dissipation: These lights do not get as hot as other bulbs, which is reassuring when fitting them into tight spaces like recessed can lights.
3. Energy Efficiency: These lights only use 16 watts to produce the equivalent of 120 watts, resulting in significant energy savings and cost reduction.
4. Longevity: The manufacturer claims these lights are good for 25,000 hours, but even if they last around 20,000 hours, it would be impressive. So far, they have been working perfectly without any flickering issues.
I decided to replace the six 2700K temperature bulbs in my kitchen with these lights along with an LED compatible dimmer switch. The difference is incredible. They are incredibly bright at full brightness but can be dimmed down to a more suitable level when less light is needed. In my small kitchen, these lights illuminate the countertops beautifully. However, it's important to note that they are quite bright, especially when installed in multiple cans. Therefore, using a dimmer switch is necessary to adjust the brightness. The bulbs themselves are of high quality and have not flickered at all.
These Sunco BR30 LED Bulbs are truly high-quality lights. In the past, I have bought the Walmart brand, but the quality can be hit or miss. These bulbs, on the other hand, are well-built and consistent in their light level. In a side-by-side comparison, they look almost identical to a Bright White Walmart bulb. Although this 6-pack is slightly more expensive, it is worth the cost for a higher quality bulb.
I have installed all six of these Sunco BR30 LED Bulbs in my galley kitchen, and the difference in lighting is remarkable. Previously, I had to keep the ceiling lights on all day due to poor natural lighting in the kitchen. However, these bulbs have provided more than enough light. The brightness is a crisp white, which takes a little time for my eyes to adjust to in the morning, but it's not bothersome enough to make me remove them. If and when these lights eventually fail, I may opt for a lower brightness level. So far, I have not experienced any flickering issues with these bulbs.
6. Brilliant Daylight Bulb: Shinestar 65w Led, Dimmable (12-Pack)
I recently purchased this energy-efficient light bulb for my basement and I have been extremely satisfied with its performance. One of the standout features of this bulb is its low power consumption, using only 8.5 watts of electricity. This not only helps me save on energy costs but also contributes to a greener environment.
In terms of brightness, this light bulb does not disappoint. It emits a powerful and intense light, providing ample visibility in my basement. I was particularly impressed by the sturdiness of the bulb, as it feels durable and well-made.
The design of this light bulb is also worth mentioning. The acrylic material used in its construction gives it a premium look and feel. The PVC lampshade ensures that the light emitted is soft and not dazzling, creating a comfortable lighting environment. Additionally, the dimming process of this bulb is smooth and free of any stroboscopic effects.
One of the standout qualities of this light bulb is its true cold light. Even after being turned on for 30 minutes, it only emits a slight warmth, unlike traditional bulbs that become hot within a minute. This feature adds to the safety and longevity of the bulb.
I also decided to replace the bulbs in my bathroom with this particular light bulb. Although I found one bulb to be too bright for my liking, I appreciated the brightness it provided in my front room where I work. The blue-white light emitted by this bulb is excellent and creates a vibrant atmosphere.
Installation of this light bulb was a breeze, and I was pleased to find that none of the bulbs were dead upon arrival. The packaging was well-done, ensuring the bulbs arrived in perfect condition. Furthermore, this bulb is compatible with my Kasa dimmer, allowing for smooth and progressive dimming.
In terms of color, this light bulb closely matches the few incandescent bulbs I still have. This was exactly what I was looking for, as I wanted consistency in the lighting throughout my home.
7. Torchstar Br40 Led Bulbs: Bright, Dimmable Indoor Lighting
I recently purchased the Torchstar bulbs for my 10-year old dimmer system and I am extremely satisfied with their performance. Despite my initial concerns, these bulbs dim flawlessly and have seamlessly integrated into my studio/office setup. With 15 bulbs in a 12-foot ceiling, replacing my old incandescent bulbs was a necessity. The Torchstar bulbs not only matched the size of the previous Philips bulbs, but they also provided a significantly brighter light output. Now, I only need to turn on one row of 5 bulbs to achieve the desired brightness, whereas before, I had to illuminate all 15 bulbs.
One of the most pleasant surprises was how well these bulbs dimmed in sync with my old school Leviton (sliding) dimmer in the dining room and my Lutron infrared 3-way dimmers in the studio/office. Despite the concerns I had read about compatibility issues between old dimmers and LED bulbs, these Torchstar bulbs dimmed perfectly alongside my incandescent bulbs. The quality and quantity of light they emit are also commendable.
I must mention that this review pertains to the 3,000K bulb variant. However, I feel obligated to caution potential buyers about the brightness of the daylight (5000K) variant. When they describe it as "daylight," they truly mean it. These bulbs emit an intense brightness that is akin to having the actual sun in your room. It is important to have a large room that can accommodate such lighting. For my needs, these bulbs were a perfect fit. But if you are not prepared to experience the full glory of the sun in your space, I would advise against ordering the daylight variant.
One aspect that I particularly appreciated was the exceptional brightness of the Torchstar bulbs. They significantly illuminated my basement, as depicted in the accompanying pictures. In the second picture, you can see a side-by-side comparison of the BR40 17W bulb (left) and our current 65W bulb (right). The difference is striking, resembling a sunny day indoors. However, it is worth noting that I overlooked the detail about the bulbs requiring a 6-inch receptacle for recessed installation. Unfortunately, they did not fit in our ceiling, so I will be returning them in search of a suitable alternative that still offers the desired brightness.
In regards to the color temperature, I ordered the warm light (2700K) but received the daylight (5000K) instead. While I could have returned them and requested the correct variant, I found that I actually enjoyed the brightness of the daylight bulbs, especially when combined with the warm light in the room. It created a great ambiance.
8. Sunco Br40 Led Bulbs: Bright, Dimmable Indoor Floodlights
I recently installed these Sunco LED bulbs in my vintage porcelain enamel shades in the garage, and I must say, I am highly impressed. My main goal was to find a bulb that would provide brighter and more luminous light while consuming less power than the previous halogen bulbs. These bulbs have exceeded my expectations in every way.
Firstly, they work incredibly well with the vintage shade style, casting light much better and enhancing the overall aesthetic. The color temperature of the bulbs also matches seamlessly with the other lights in my garage, creating a cohesive and visually pleasing environment.
In terms of performance, I have been pleased to find that these bulbs are not harsh on the eyes and I haven't experienced any issues with flickering. Additionally, the lifespan of the bulbs has been impressive so far, with no signs of deterioration or reduced functionality.
One of the bulbs did stop working after three years, which was disappointing. However, I was delighted to discover that the bulbs come with a 5-year warranty. I promptly reached out to the company through their website and submitted a claim. I was pleasantly surprised by the quick response and exceptional customer service. Not only did they send me a replacement bulb, but they also included two additional bulbs as a gesture of goodwill. This level of support and care has won my loyalty, and I will now exclusively purchase LED bulbs from Sunco.
In terms of value, these bulbs are an excellent investment. I only needed three of them to sufficiently light up my entire kitchen, which is impressive considering their brightness. If they live up to their promised lifespan, then they are undeniably a top-notch product.
I cannot stress enough how satisfied I am with Sunco's customer service and products. When I encountered an issue with the warranty, their team resolved it promptly and efficiently. I wholeheartedly recommend Sunco to anyone in need of exceptional LED bulbs. They have truly earned more than a 5-star rating in my book.
FAQs
Are dimmable recessed light bulbs recommended for a kitchen?
Yes, dimmable recessed light bulbs are highly recommended for a kitchen. They offer a great deal of flexibility and control over the lighting in your kitchen space. Dimming the lights allows you to create different atmospheres and adjust the brightness according to your needs and preferences.
For instance, you can have brighter lighting when cooking or performing tasks that require more visibility, and then dim the lights for a more relaxed and cozy ambiance during meals or gatherings. Dimmable recessed light bulbs also help to reduce glare, which can be especially beneficial in a kitchen where you might be working with shiny surfaces or using the space for various activities.
Additionally, dimming the lights can contribute to energy savings by lowering the overall wattage and extending the lifespan of the bulbs. Overall, dimmable recessed light bulbs provide versatility and enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen.
Are there any energy-efficient recessed light bulbs recommended for the kitchen?
Yes, there are several energy-efficient recessed light bulbs that are recommended for the kitchen. LED (light emitting diode) bulbs are considered to be one of the best options for energy efficiency. They use significantly less energy compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, while providing the same level of brightness.
LED bulbs also have a much longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, LED bulbs do not emit as much heat as incandescent bulbs, making them a safer option for kitchen use.
When selecting recessed light bulbs for your kitchen, look for LED bulbs that have a high lumens output to ensure ample lighting. It is also important to consider the color temperature of the bulb. For kitchens, a color temperature in the range of 2700K to 4000K is recommended, as it provides a warm and inviting ambiance while still offering sufficient brightness for tasks.
Other energy-efficient options for recessed lighting in the kitchen include compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and halogen bulbs. However, LED bulbs are generally considered to be the most energy-efficient and cost-effective choice.
Can LED recessed light bulbs be used in a kitchen?
Yes, LED recessed light bulbs can definitely be used in a kitchen. In fact, they are a popular choice for kitchen lighting due to their numerous advantages. LED bulbs are highly energy-efficient, which means they consume less electricity and last significantly longer compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
This is especially beneficial in the kitchen, where lights are often used for extended periods.
LED recessed light bulbs also offer excellent brightness and color rendering, ensuring that your kitchen is well-lit and vibrant. They come in a variety of color temperatures, allowing you to choose a warm or cool light to suit your preference and kitchen decor.
Additionally, LED bulbs emit very little heat, making them safer to use in confined spaces like recessed lighting fixtures. They are also available in different beam angles, allowing you to focus the light precisely where you need it.
Overall, LED recessed light bulbs are a fantastic choice for kitchen lighting due to their energy efficiency, longevity, brightness, and versatility.
Can recessed light bulbs in the kitchen be used with a dimmer switch?
Yes, recessed light bulbs in the kitchen can be used with a dimmer switch. Dimmer switches are designed to control the brightness of a light fixture, allowing you to adjust the level of illumination according to your preference or the mood you want to create in the space.
Recessed light bulbs, also known as can lights or downlights, are commonly used in kitchens for their sleek and modern look. They can be fitted with dimmable LED or incandescent bulbs, depending on your preference and the type of recessed fixture you have installed.
It is important to ensure that both the recessed light bulbs and the dimmer switch are compatible with each other to avoid any issues or potential damage. It is recommended to consult with a professional electrician or refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for specific instructions on dimming capabilities and compatibility.
How do I choose the right size of recessed light bulbs for my kitchen?
To choose the right size of recessed light bulbs for your kitchen, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you need to determine the size of the recessed light fixture itself. Look for the specifications on the fixture or consult the manufacturer's guidelines to find out the recommended bulb size.
Secondly, consider the amount of light you want in your kitchen. This will depend on the size of the room, the level of brightness you desire, and the purpose of the lighting. If you have a larger kitchen or want brighter lighting, you may opt for higher wattage bulbs or multiple bulbs in each fixture.
Lastly, consider the type of bulb you want to use. LED bulbs are energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them a popular choice for recessed lighting. Make sure the bulb base matches the fixture's socket, usually either medium or GU10.
If you're still unsure about the right size, it's always a good idea to consult a professional electrician or lighting specialist who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences.
How many recessed light bulbs do I need for my kitchen?
The number of recessed light bulbs you need for your kitchen depends on several factors, such as the size of your kitchen, the layout, and the level of brightness you desire. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have one recessed light fixture for every 4 to 6 square feet of kitchen space.
For example, if your kitchen is 100 square feet, you would need approximately 17 to 25 recessed light bulbs. However, it's important to note that this is just a rough estimate, and it's always a good idea to consult with a professional electrician or lighting specialist who can provide a more accurate assessment based on your specific kitchen layout and lighting requirements.
They can also help you determine the optimal placement and spacing of the recessed lights to ensure even illumination throughout the kitchen.
What are the best recessed light bulbs for a kitchen?
When it comes to selecting the best recessed light bulbs for a kitchen, there are a few factors to consider. First, it is important to choose a bulb with the right amount of brightness. Generally, for a kitchen, it is recommended to use bulbs with a brightness of around 800 to 1,200 lumens.
This will provide adequate illumination for cooking and food preparation.
Secondly, it is advisable to opt for LED bulbs instead of traditional incandescent or fluorescent ones. LED bulbs are energy-efficient, have a longer lifespan, and emit less heat, making them ideal for use in the kitchen.
In terms of color temperature, a neutral white or cool white color (around 3500K to 5000K) is commonly used in kitchens as it provides a bright and invigorating atmosphere.
Lastly, consider the beam angle of the bulb. For kitchen recessed lighting, a wider beam angle of around 90 degrees is preferable to ensure even illumination across the room.
Based on these considerations, some popular and reliable recessed light bulb options for kitchens include the Philips LED Dimmable BR30 Flood Light Bulb, Cree Lighting TW Series LED Retrofit Downlight, and Sylvania Ultra LED Recessed Kit.
What are the potential benefits of using recessed light bulbs in the kitchen?
Using recessed light bulbs in the kitchen can offer several potential benefits. Firstly, recessed lighting provides a streamlined and modern aesthetic to the space. By being recessed into the ceiling, these light fixtures create a clean and unobtrusive look, allowing other design elements in the kitchen to take center stage.
Secondly, recessed light bulbs provide efficient and focused illumination. They can be strategically placed to highlight specific areas in the kitchen, such as the countertops, stove, or sink, providing ample light for cooking, meal prep, and cleaning.
Moreover, recessed lights can be dimmable, allowing for adjustable lighting levels to create different moods or ambiance.
Additionally, recessed light bulbs are typically LED, which means they are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. This can result in cost savings on electricity bills and fewer replacements, making them a more sustainable choice.
In summary, the potential benefits of using recessed light bulbs in the kitchen include a modern aesthetic, focused illumination, dimmable options, energy efficiency, and longevity.
What color temperature is best for recessed light bulbs in the kitchen?
The best color temperature for recessed light bulbs in the kitchen is typically between 2700K to 3000K. This range falls into the "warm white" category, which creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It closely resembles the color of traditional incandescent bulbs, providing a warm and pleasant glow.
This color temperature is commonly used in residential kitchens as it enhances the appearance of food and creates a comfortable ambiance for cooking and dining.
However, it is important to consider personal preferences and the overall design scheme of the kitchen. If you have a modern or minimalist kitchen, you may opt for a slightly higher color temperature, such as 3500K, which falls into the "neutral white" range.
This can provide a brighter and more vibrant lighting effect. Ultimately, the choice of color temperature should align with your desired atmosphere and complement the overall style of your kitchen.
What wattage should I use for recessed light bulbs in the kitchen?
When choosing the wattage for recessed light bulbs in the kitchen, there are a few factors to consider. First, determine the purpose of the lighting. If you primarily use the recessed lights for general illumination, a wattage between 65W and 75W should be sufficient.
This will provide a good balance of brightness without causing excessive heat or energy consumption.
However, if you require brighter lighting for specific tasks, such as cooking or food preparation, you may want to consider higher wattages, such as 100W or even 150W. Keep in mind that higher wattage bulbs may generate more heat, so it's important to ensure proper ventilation and heat dissipation to avoid any potential safety hazards.
It's also worth noting that incandescent bulbs are being phased out in many countries due to their energy inefficiency. Consider using LED bulbs instead, as they are more energy-efficient, have longer lifespans, and provide the same brightness levels with lower wattages.
LED bulbs typically require about 10-20 watts to produce the same amount of light as a 65-75 watt incandescent bulb.
In any case, it's always a good idea to consult the manufacturer's recommendations or seek advice from a professional electrician for the most suitable wattage for your specific kitchen setup.