Why are some lightbulbs clear and others frosted?

Question

My son would like to know :-)

Answer 1

No frosting on the glass probably makes it cheaper to manufacture. Putting frosting on the bulb would make it a little more esthetically ok (than the unfrosted one) if the bare bulb is exposed.

For bulbs that are concealed in ceiling fixtures with diffusers you might get more light from the fixture using clear bulbs; for table lamps you'd probably prefer frosted bulbs.

So for why they are made differently -- I'd say cost and esthetics -- which generally govern most decisions.

Answer 2

There are many different choices in light bulbs, and that is because people use them for many different uses, in many different places.

If you have light bulbs that are properly shaded, the clear ones are OK, but most lamps don't completely shade them, so the frosted ones should be used. Frosted is often more expensive, so if cost is a consideration, that would explain it, although when 'on sale' they can be the same price.

Answer 3

alls I know is the frosted ones are standard house hold lightbulbs and the clear ones cheap ones from other countries. and by the way any of you freakin global market manufacturers are listening . You have changed our freakin way of life with your greed. Listerine sucks now, Scott toilet tissue used to be number one and best quality now its no better than the cheapest t.t. Sending all the products we need and use away they come back third rate and frankly Im sick of it.

Answer 4

FROSTED LIGHT BLUBS ARE EASIER ON THE EYES AND U DONT GET FILAMENT SHADOWS AS WITH CLEAR

Answer 5

softer less intense light

Answer 6

to get the look/effect you want