Frequently Asked Lava Lamp Questions

Yes, you can. Mathmos lava lamps are designed to last and reduce landfill waste wherever possible. Replacement parts such as bulbs, bases, bottles and other small extras are available here.

Please contact Mathmos customer services here.

The metal spring, located at the bottom of the bottle, is an essential part of your lava lamp. It helps with the proper movement of the lava. If the spring becomes dislodged, run the lamp for up to six hours to allow it to settle back into place. This process might need to be repeated if the spring does not settle initially.

Mathmos has been manufacturing high-quality lava lamps in Britain since 1963. Our lamps feature a unique lava formulation for superior flow, longer life, clearer liquid, and more vivid colours. We also offer a comprehensive range of spare parts. Additionally, we adhere to the highest safety standards and undergo regular audits by independent bodies to ensure exceptional build quality.

The stalagmite shapes you're seeing are a normal part of the warming-up process. As the lamp heats up, these shapes will begin to melt and transform into the flowing lava shapes you expect. Please leave the lamp on for longer to allow it to fully warm up and start producing the classic moving lava.

Mathmos lava lamp bottles are handcrafted, so there may be slight variations in colour. Additionally, colours can appear different under various lighting conditions. Our product photos are often taken in well-lit environments, which may affect how the colours look. For more information on how lighting can impact the appearance of your lava lamp, check out our blog here.

Rest assured, Mathmos uses compliant halogen bulbs to heat and light its lava lamps, even as some halogen bulbs are being phased out for lighting purposes. We are also exploring alternative power sources for our iconic lamps in case regulations change further. Our commitment is to ensure that our lava lamps stay out of landfill and spare parts continue to be offered.

Mathmos lava lamp bottles typically last for approximately 2,000 hours. The lifespan of the bulbs can vary, as halogen bulbs are delicate, and their longevity depends on usage. Replacement bulbs and bottles are available for purchase on our website here.

Most Mathmos lava lamps can be used for up to six hours at a time. Exceptions include the Candle range, which should be used for no more than 4 hours, and the Saturn Giant lava lamp, which can be used for up to 12 hours.

The location of the Mathmos logo can vary by model. It may be found on the base, cap, or label on the cord, and in most cases, it is etched onto the bottle.

Mathmos lava lamp bottles are made in one of the highest quality automated bottling factories in Great Britain. Small bubbles in the glass are a normal part of the manufacturing process and are not a fault.

This occurs because the lava lamp has overheated. It may have been on too long (more than 6 hours) or placed in an unsuitable location, such as near a heater or window. Please turn off the lamp and allow it to cool. Reposition your lava lamp in a spot with a temperature between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius.

We currently don't supply the USA or Canada. However, a small range of our iconic Mathmos lamps will be available in 2025. To stay in the loop, sign up to our mailing list here.

NB. Schylling Inc. owns the "LAVA" trademark in the USA and Canada. Mathmos Ltd is totally independent and not connected to Schylling Inc in any way.

Lava lamps can become cloudy for two reasons: either they have been shaken or moved while hot, or the bottle has reached the end of its life (approximately 2,000 hours). This is often irreparable. Run the lamp a few times to see if the situation improves. If it does not clear up, you can purchase a replacement bottle here.

It is normal for the colour in your bottle to gradually fade over time due to natural exposure to UV light. To prolong the lifespan of the colours, keep your lamp away from direct sunlight, areas with strong natural light, and reflected light.

If your lamp is still under warranty, and you have followed the instructions, please contact our customer service here. Otherwise, you can purchase a new bottle here.

Mathmos has offered a wide variety of lava colours throughout its history, but we cannot keep every colour in stock. Please choose from our current range. As we do occasionally offer limited-time special fills, you can also sign up for our mailing list and follow us on social media for the latest updates.

We don’t offer a custom refill service. However, you can join our mailing list or follow us on social media, as we occasionally launch new colourways and limited-time Special Fills. In the meantime, please choose from the current range on our website.

The bottles are sealed units and should not be tampered with for safety reasons. Attempting to top up the liquid can void the warranty and may cause overfilling and increased pressure on the glass. We do not sell the liquids separately. Instead, you can purchase a new bottle with professionally filled contents from the Mathmos website here.

Small bubbles in the lava are normal, especially when you first receive the lamp. These bubbles will generally reduce as the lamp is used over time.

If you notice wax sticking to the side of the bottle, try using the lava lamp a few times. The wax should eventually join the rest of the contents. If this does not happen, and you have followed the instructions, please contact our customer service team here. If your lamp is no longer under warranty, you might consider purchasing a new bottle here.

There should be nothing in the bottle besides the lava, liquid, and a metal coil. Occasionally, you may notice darker specks in the lava as it flows. These specks are due to varying amounts of dye particles from each batch and usually fade over time. They are not considered a fault. If you see anything else in your bottle, please contact our customer service team here.

Before recycling, consider purchasing replacement parts. We offer spares for most Mathmos lava lamp models from the 1960s to today on our website here. If you need to recycle the lamp, please take it to your nearest household recycling centre that specialises in electrical waste.

The formulation has improved since the 1960s, making our lamps less likely to cloud in heat or freeze in the cold. However, we have not changed the formula in recent years.

Check the bulb: Ensure the bulb is working and has the correct wattage.Positioning: Place the lamp away from drafts, air conditioning, or windows. Try moving the lamp to a different position in the room.Room Temperature: Make sure the room temperature is at least 20°C.Warming Up: The lamp may take longer to warm up initially. Run the lamp for 4-6 hours each time.Bulb Type: For older bases, ensure the correct bulb is fitted. Refer to our bulb section here for details.Coil Check: Confirm there is a coil at the bottom of the bottle.

Clean the bottle with a glass cleaner and a soft cloth. The base and cap are made of either aluminium or zinc (depending on your lamp), so use products recommended for these materials. If unsure, simply use a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaning products, as they can irreparably damage the lamp.

Firstly, check our FAQs to see if your issue is addressed. If you still need assistance, we offer a one-year warranty on all products, and up to two years if purchased directly from our website. If your lamp is within the warranty period, please contact our customer service team. For detailed information, also refer to our Faulty Product Returns Advice.

Mathmos lava lamp bottles are sealed units, so we do not sell the screw cap separately. However, you can purchase a new filled Mathmos bottle here.

Safety First: Carefully pick up any broken glass and dispose of it safely. Wear gloves to protect your hands.Remove Liquid and Lava: Dispose of as much of the liquid and lava as possible. Use a cloth or paper towels to soak up the liquid.Clean the floor: Use cleaning methods appropriate for your floor type to remove any coloured fluid and wax. For specific cleaning techniques, refer to recommendations for your floor material (e.g., tile, carpet, wood).

Mathmos lava lamps have undergone various changes in manufacturing over the years. Unfortunately, we are unable to date specific lamps for you. To begin this process, you might visit specialist sites like www.flowoflava.com.

Due to electrical safety regulations, we cannot supply replacement lamp holders separately. However, fully assembled base units are available in our spares section here.

Halogen bulbs are very delicate. Please find instructions relevant to your lamp here.

Most lava lamps should start working within one hour to an hour and a half from being switched on. First, they will form stalagmite shapes before the liquid lava formations. Please note that new bottles may take longer to heat up when new (up to three hours), but the time taken is expected to decrease after several uses.

Yes. We had these specially made to ensure our 60s lamps can still be enjoyed, see here.

Mathmos bottles are supplied with a lip that runs around the bottom of the bottle to ensure they sit straight in the base. When the bottle is placed on a base, it should fit securely, although it will still be possible to move the bottle from side to side, and a shadow gap may be visible. There have been many bottle and base size variations over time, so it may be possible with some much older products that a new bottle does not fit in the base. Please contact our customer service team for advice if your bottle isn't sitting on the base.

Please check that your bulb is working. You can purchase a new bulb here. Alternatively, please check the integrity of the fuse located in the plug.

Some lamps have a shadow gap between the base and the bottle; this is normal.

The coating on this bottle is very delicate; please take great care. Avoid rotating the bottle on the base as this can cause scratches.

Candle-powered lava lamps should start flowing within twenty minutes after lighting. First, they will form stalagmite shapes before the liquid lava formations. Please note that new bottles may take longer to heat up; the time taken is expected to decrease after several uses.

For optimal performance, we recommend using tealights that are 15 mm in height, as tealights can vary in flame height, heating ability, and wick length. Mathmos tealights are recommended, but you can also use other high-quality tealights of the same size. For further recommendations, please check the product page under specifications.

Yes. Like any unprotected candlelight, you will need a place with no wind.

Firstly, please read the instructions carefully. Following any points that are relevant for all tealights.

DO NOT: leave unattended, leave on when going to sleep, use water to put out the flame, let debris (like part of a match) sit in the tealight, position near anything flammable, touch or move when lit, position near drafts, vents, children, or pets.

When the bottle is placed on a base, it should fit securely, although it will still be possible to move the bottle from side to side, and a shadow gap may be visible.

Once your product has completely cooled, use the Allen key provided to unscrew and remove the back screw (keep these components safe). Holding the bottle and arm piece carefully, lift and remove the bottle and arm piece from the base. Carefully take the arm piece off the bottle. When installing the bulb, please only fit the correct type, as stated in the label on the base. You can install this by gently pushing them into the holder socket. Following a successful bulb change, please follow the instructions given previously in reverse to reassemble your lamp.

Most lava lamps should start working within one hour to an hour and a half after they have been switched on. First, they will form stalagmite shapes before the liquid lava formations. Please note that new bottles may take longer to heat up (up to three hours), but the time taken is expected to decrease after several uses.

The only suitable lava lamps for children are the Mathmos Neo Table range. The Neo lava lamp was developed with children in mind, so as well as looking stylish, it is also shatterproof, has fixture points, does not get too hot, and is screwed together as a secure unit. The lamp has also passed stringent safety checks required to be classified as child-safe, something no other lava lamp in the UK has a classification for. We recommend all other lava lamps be placed well out of reach of children under 14 years old.

The product must adhere to a stringent criterion to achieve this. For example, the bulb should not be accessible without a tool, it must be low voltage (not mains voltage), it must be very stable, it must have a shatterproof coating on the glass, the bottle must be fixed to the base, and it must not be too hot.

No. Neo has a unique formulation different from other bottles. This would overheat if used with other models. Contrastingly, Astro Baby and Telstar bottles will run slowly or not at all if used with the Neo.

The bottle has a shatterproof coating to help hold the glass together should this be dropped and broken. In this worst-case scenario, additional Neo bottles are available to be purchased here.

Replacement screws and Allen keys can be purchased for the Neo lava lamp here.

Once your product has completely cooled, use the Allen key provided to unscrew and remove the back screw (keep these components safe). Holding the bottle and arm piece carefully, lift and remove the bottle and arm piece from the base. Carefully take the arm piece off the bottle. Reverse this process to install the new bottle. Replacement bottles for the Neo lamp can be purchased here.

Try changing the bulb, replacement bulbs can be purchased here. Alternatively, please check the integrity of your power supply (from the plug to the lamp). Replacement power supplies can be purchased here.

Some lamps have a shadow gap between the base and the bottle; this is normal.

It is important to install the cap and rear arm element on top of the bottle before you position these on the base. Please see the 'Instructions' tab for detailed assembly guidelines on the relevant product page.

Yes, this is normal.

Yes. They do vary a little, and this can be normal.

Under no circumstances must the Neo Wall be installed in this way. The Neo Wall lava lamp is a low voltage (class III) product and must be connected to the included power supply to function safely and correctly.

A slight delay before the light comes on is normal with halogen bulbs. This is not considered a fault.

Halogen bulbs are very delicate, please find instructions relevant to your lamp here.

Most lava lamps should start working within one hour to an hour and a half from being switched on. First, they will form stalagmite shapes before the liquid lava formations. Please note that new bottles may take longer to heat up (up to three hours), but the time taken is expected to decrease after several uses.

You can purchase a set of Telstar boots from our spares section here.

Please check that your bulb is working. You can purchase a new bulb here. Alternatively, please check the integrity of the fuse located in the plug.

Some lamps have a shadow gap between the base and the bottle; this is normal.

Mathmos bottles have a lip which runs around the bottom circumference to ensure they sit straight in the base. The bottle should fit securely, although it will still be possible to move it from side to side, and a shadow gap may be visible. There have been many bottle and base size variations over time, so it may be possible with some much older products that a new bottle does not fit in the base. Please contact our customer service team for advice if your bottle isn't sitting on the base.

First, ensure that the product is unplugged and cool. Remove the glass heat shield. At first glance, the bulb may look too long, but rest assured as the bulb holder contacts are spring-loaded. Locate one end of the bulb on the pin and gently push. The other end of the bulb can then be located on the opposing pin. Finally, refit the glass shield.

The iO giant lava lamp should start working within two to two and a half hours from being switched on. First, the lava will form stalagmite shapes before the liquid lava formations. Please note that new bottles may take longer to heat up (up to three hours), but the time taken is expected to decrease after several uses. If your giant lava lamp does not warm up during this time, please ensure the room temperature is at least 20 degrees. Lava lamps should also be located away from any drafts or air conditioning.

Yes. Mathmos lava lamps are designed to last. Please contact our Customer Service Team.

Yes. The iO and the Lunar lava lamps use the same bottle. They are interchangeable.

The iO runs best at an ambient temperature between 20C and 25C. Under these circumstances will not need a dimmer.

Sometimes when the ambient temperature is higher, it may be better to run the product with the lamp dimmed. Plug-in dimmers, suitable for halogen lamps, are readily available and can be used with the iO lava lamp.

Ensure that the cap is the correct way around. The two arms should be aligned with the slots in the cap before gently pushing down. Do not force the cap as this could damage your product. See our assembly video here.

Yes. This is an integral safety component of the product.

Yes. This is an essential part of the heating system for the lava.

The iO lava lamp weighs 9.9 kilograms.

The iO lava lamp measures 78 cm (30.7 inches) in height and 24 cm (9.44 inches) in diameter.

Please check that your bulb is working. You can purchase a new bulb here.

You can use a standard Allen key screw of the appropriate size (M4 x 8mm). Alternatively, these are stocked as spare parts here.

Yes. They do vary a little and this can be normal.

Fit the bulb into the product by pushing one end in and springing it into place between the lamp holder contacts. Ensure that each end of the bulb is sitting entirely in the lamp holder.

Please find more guidelines for assembling the Saturn product on the product page 'Instructions' tab here.

The Saturn lava lamp should start working within three to three and a half hours after switching it on. First, they will form stalagmite shapes before the liquid lava formations. Please note that new bottles may take longer to heat up, but the time taken is expected to decrease after several uses. If your lava lamp does not warm up during this time, it may be positioned in the wrong place, or the room temperature may be too cold. Mathmos lava lamps should be located away from drafts or air conditioning and at room temperature of 20 to 24 degrees.

The Saturn weighs 24.7 kg in total. The stand and aluminium parts weigh 5.7 kg, and the bottle weighs 19 kg separately. Important: Lifting the bottle is a two-person task. With one person on each side carefully lift the bottle into position.

The Saturn lava lamp measures 152 cm (59.84 inches) in height, 54 cm (21.26 inches) in width, and 48 cm (18.9 inches) in depth. The spread of the legs is 61 cm (24.02 inches) in diameter.

The Saturn lava lamp is fitted with a foot switch; this does not require a large amount of force to operate.

The Saturn is fitted with a 3-metre cable. Important: Ensure the power cable can reach the socket location without being overstretched and does not become a trip hazard.

The slots enable you to fix the product to a surface should the need occur (i.e., in public areas). Please use fixings that are appropriate for the floor surface.

These lamps are currently exempt under the new UK and EU Ecodesign regulations.

Yes. Please perform an independent risk assessment like any other electrical product in a public space.

Please check that your bulb is working. Alternatively, please check the integrity of the fuse located in the plug. If you need further assistance, please contact us here.

First, unplug the product and wait for it to cool completely. With two people, gently lift the bottle off the stand and set it safely to one side. Move the stand to your desired location and re-position the bottle on top. Never drag the product as this can permanently damage the stand or cause this to tip over.

Yes, it is perfectly safe. When the lava lamp is switched ON a live electric current is restored on the circuit, this can occasionally create a small blue flash.

The Mathmos branding is on the leg.

Yes. Mathmos lava lamps are designed to last, please buy replacement parts here.

The Rokit, iO and the Lunar use the same bottles and are interchangeable.

The bottle should be cleaned with glass cleaner and a microfibre cloth. Only use a microfibre cloth to clean the aluminium parts. The silicone slots can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaning products as this can irreparably damage the product.

The Rokit runs best at an ambient temperature between 20 and 25C and under these circumstances will not need a dimmer. Sometimes when the temperature is higher it may be better run the product with the lamp dimmed. Plug-in dimmers suitable for halogen lamps are available and can be used with the product.

Yes, this is an integral safety component of the product.

The Rokit Lava lamp should start working within two to two and a half hours of turning it on. First it will form stalagmite shapes, then they will start to form lava lamp shapes. Please note, new bottles will take longer to heat up (up to three hours), but the heating time will decrease after several uses. As the Rokit use a lower wattage lamp than the iO the lava can perform differently to that model. If your lava lamp does not warm up in this time, it may be positioned in the wrong place or the room may be too cold. Lava lamps should be positioned away from drafts and air conditioning. The room should be at least 20 degrees centigrade.

Ensure that the product is unplugged and cool. At first glance, the bulb looks too long for the lamp holder, however, the contacts are spring-loaded. Locate one end of the bulb on the pin and gently push, the other end of the lamp can then be located on the other pin. Refit the glass shield.

The Rokit weighs 12 kg.

The Rokit is 66.5 cm (25.79 inches) high and 25 cm (9.84 inches) in diameter.

It is perfectly safe. As the live current makes contact with the other part of the switch it can occasionally create a small blue flash.

These lamps are currently exempt under the new UK and EU Eco Design regulations.

No, only use bottles bought within the last three years. Older bottles may sit too near the candle.

The heat diffuser is found inside the metal cradle part of the base. It ensures even distribution of heat from the tea light to the bottle base.

It is essential to use a heat diffuser with Evo to ensure the best performance and safety of the product.

Please wait 5 hours or more before using Evo. The bottle needs to warm to room temperature before use. A sudden temperature change could affect the bottle.

Please trim the wick of the tealight to 0.5cm and point it upwards before lighting. Long wicks can occasionally cause flaring of the flame that could affect the bottle.

The bottle will take 45 minutes to 1 hour to flow, depending on ambient conditions.

For optimal performance, we recommend using tealights that are 15 mm in height, as tealights can vary in flame height, heating ability, and wick length. Mathmos tealights are recommended, but you can also use other high-quality tealights of the same size. For further recommendations, please check the product page under specifications.

Only use Telstar or Baby bottles bought from Mathmos in the last two years. Neo bottles have a plastic coating that will melt, and older Telstar and Baby bottles may sit too near the candle.

Yes, but like any unprotected candle, you need a place with no wind.

No, these bottles are not suitable for use with this product.

It can be positioned anywhere. However, keep away from flammable objects and do not move when lit.

No, it has only been designed for use with a tealight.

We would not recommend these types of candles for this product.

These are hand pressed from molten glass, so each piece is unique. This is a natural and unavoidable part of the manufacturing process.

Clean the heat diffuser with a lint-free cloth between uses and avoid using chemicals or abrasives. It is normal for the diffuser to discolour over time.

The heat diffuser is located inside the metal cradle in the base to ensure even distribution of heat from the tea light to the bottle base.

It is essential to use a heat diffuser with Astro Flame to ensure the best performance and safety of the product.

The bottle will take 70 to 90 minutes to flow, depending on ambient conditions.

Please trim the wick of the tealight to 0.5cm and point it upwards before lighting. Long wicks can occasionally cause flaring of the flame that could affect the function of the bottle.

Please wait 5 hours or more before using Astro Flame. The bottle needs to warm to room temperature before use. A sudden temperature change could affect the bottle.

For optimal performance, we recommend using tealights that are 15 mm in height, as tealights can vary in flame height, heating ability, and wick length. Mathmos tealights are recommended, but you can also use other high-quality tealights of the same size. For further recommendations, please check the product page under specifications.

Only use Astro bottles purchased in the last three years that have a lipped base. Older bottles may sit too close to the candle. Coated bottles (like frosted or metallic) are also not recommended for use with Astro Flame.

Yes, like any unprotected candle, the Astro Flame should be placed in a wind-free area for best results.

Astro Flame can be placed anywhere, but keep it away from flammable objects and do not move it while it's lit.

Astro Flame is designed for use with a tealight only.

We do not recommend using these types of candles for this product.

Clean the heat diffuser with a lint-free cloth between uses and avoid using chemicals or abrasives. It is normal for the diffuser to discolour over time.

Yes, Column has passed safety testing for use in public and commercial settings. Where appropriate, we recommend carrying out an independent risk assessment.

Column is available in three exclusive colours: Bubblegum, Peach, and Honeydew. Currently, we do not offer custom finishes or colours.

Yes, Column is 296 cm tall as standard, but it can be shortened if needed, with a minimum height of 221 cm. A clearance of at least 22 cm is required between the top of the lamp and the ceiling.

Each Column is packed securely in a wooden crate and sent duty and carriage paid. Delivery is approximately 3 months from order.

Yes, replacement bottles for Column are available on request. The cost is £3,000 (UK) or €4,000 (EU), carriage and duty paid. Please contact our customer service team to place an order.

Bottles and bulbs are available. Other replacement parts may be available on request. Please contact our customer service team to discuss your requirements.

Column requires two adults for assembly. Professional installation is not necessary, but the provided instructions must be followed.

No additional tools are needed for assembly. All components and instructions are included. However, tools may be required to open the delivery crate. A stepladder may also be useful when fitting the cap, depending on your ceiling height.

We recommend a maximum of 12 hours continuous use after the lamp has fully warmed up.

Yes, Column can be used with a certified dimmer plug.

Column takes approximately 4 to 5 hours to fully warm up and start flowing. If you’d like it running at a specific time, we recommend using a timer.

Column includes a 2.5-metre fabric cable with a clear inline switch, allowing flexibility in placement.

The Column lava lamp is fitted with a foot switch; this does not require a large amount of force to operate.

Column uses an R7S linear halogen bulb. Please follow the instructions provided with the product for safe installation.

No, Column’s bottle is larger. It shares the same 18 cm diameter as Saturn but is 16 cm taller.