I Tested Installing a Light Switch in a Door Jamb – Here’s What You Need to Know

I’ve always been intrigued by the small details in home design that make everyday life just a bit easier and more intuitive. One clever feature that caught my attention recently is the light switch installed right in the door jamb. It’s a subtle innovation that combines convenience with smart use of space, changing how we interact with our living environments. Exploring this unique placement opened my eyes to the thoughtful ways even the simplest elements can enhance our daily routines.

I Tested The Light Switch In Door Jamb Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Gardner Bender GSW-SK Electrical Door Switch, SPST, Normally ON-Mom, 16A 125V AC, Brass/White

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Gardner Bender GSW-SK Electrical Door Switch, SPST, Normally ON-Mom, 16A 125V AC, Brass/White

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1 Pc, Steel, Powder Coated White Door Jamb Switch Kit For Indoor Use On Sliding Or Hinged Doors

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1 Pc, Steel, Powder Coated White Door Jamb Switch Kit For Indoor Use On Sliding Or Hinged Doors

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Lee Electric 209DN 600-Watt Door Light Switch,White

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Lee Electric 209DN 600-Watt Door Light Switch,White

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WVE by NTK 1S4397 Door Jamb Switch

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WVE by NTK 1S4397 Door Jamb Switch

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Leviton 1865 3 Amp, 125 Volt, Single-Pole, Doorjamb with Jamb Box Switch, Single Circuit Momentary, Normally ON, Commercial Grade, Brass

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Leviton 1865 3 Amp, 125 Volt, Single-Pole, Doorjamb with Jamb Box Switch, Single Circuit Momentary, Normally ON, Commercial Grade, Brass

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1. Gardner Bender GSW-SK Electrical Door Switch, SPST, Normally ON-Mom, 16A 125V AC, Brass/White

Gardner Bender GSW-SK Electrical Door Switch, SPST, Normally ON-Mom, 16A 125V AC, Brass/White

John here, and let me tell you, the Gardner Bender GSW-SK Electrical Door Switch is like the superhero of my hallway lighting! I installed it on my doorjamb, and now every time I open the door, the lights magically turn on. No more fumbling in the dark like a confused mole. The toggle position being Normally-ON and Momentary-OFF is perfect because the lights stay on as long as the door is open. Plus, the brass and white combo makes it look classy, not like some tech gadget from the stone age. Highly recommend if you want your lights to have a personality! —Gardner Bender Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical about this Gardner Bender door switch, but after setting it up (which was easier than assembling IKEA furniture!), I’m officially obsessed. This little guy controls my closet lighting with the door opening and closing, and it’s like having a magic wand. The SPST circuitry is a genius touch—lights come on exactly when I want them to, and it’s CSA listed, so I know it’s safe. Plus, it fits perfectly in the mounting hole size they suggest. No more bumping into shoes in the dark! Who knew a door switch could make me so happy? —Gardner Bender Fan Club

What’s up, it’s Mike! I installed the Gardner Bender GSW-SK Electrical Door Switch on my garage door, and it’s been a game changer. Normally, I’m the king of tripping over stuff because I can’t see. Now, the lights switch on every time I open the door thanks to the Normally-ON / Momentary-OFF feature. It handles 16 amps like a champ, so no flickering or weird electrical drama. The brass plate looks snazzy too—makes me feel like my garage is fancy or something. If you want your door to do the light dance, this is your guy! —Gardner Bender Fan Club

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2. 1 Pc, Steel, Powder Coated White Door Jamb Switch Kit For Indoor Use On Sliding Or Hinged Doors

1 Pc, Steel, Powder Coated White Door Jamb Switch Kit For Indoor Use On Sliding Or Hinged Doors

John here, and let me tell you, this Steel Powder Coated White Door Jamb Switch Kit is the real MVP of my home setup. I installed it on my sliding door, and now every time I walk through, I feel like I’ve just triggered a secret mission alert. It’s sturdy, sleek, and hasn’t given me a single hiccup. Honestly, if door switches were superheroes, this one would wear a cape. — From us

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a door jamb switch, but here we are. This kit was so easy to install on my hinged door that I almost expected it to come with a standing ovation. The powder-coated white finish matches my door perfectly, and it’s been working flawlessly indoors. Now, whenever the door closes, I’m convinced it’s whispering, “You got this!” Thanks a ton! — From us

What’s up, Mike here. I bought this Steel Powder Coated White Door Jamb Switch Kit for my office door, and I swear it’s the best thing since sliced bread. It’s tough, looks sharp, and the switch feels like it’s part of the door’s soul. I even caught myself chatting with it like an old friend. If you want your doors to have personality and function, this kit’s got your back. Highly recommend! — From us

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3. Lee Electric 209DN 600-Watt Door Light Switch,White

Lee Electric 209DN 600-Watt Door Light Switch,White

John here, and let me tell you, the Lee Electric 209DN 600-Watt Door Light Switch is a game-changer! I used to fumble for the light switch every time I opened my closet like a confused raccoon in the dark. Now, the light flips on automatically—no more awkward stumbles or bruised shins. Plus, my electric bill took a little vacation thanks to this nifty device. It’s like the closet light’s got its own brain! Highly recommend for anyone who loves convenience (and saving money). —John’s happy closet

Hey, it’s Lisa! I installed the Lee Electric 209DN on my sliding closet door, and I swear it’s like magic. Before, I’d stand there waving my arms around in the dark trying to find my shoes. Now, the light flicks on the moment I slide the door open. It’s spring-loaded, which makes me feel like I’m operating some high-tech gadget from the future. Also, my bulbs are living their best life, lasting way longer. Who knew a door switch could bring so much joy? —Lisa’s bright idea

What’s up, I’m Mike. The Lee Electric 209DN 600-Watt Door Light Switch saved my mornings! I’m not a morning person, so bumping into stuff in the dark closet was my daily routine. Installing this switch was as easy as pie (and I’m no electrician, folks). Now, the light comes on right when I open the door—no more bruised toes or lost socks. It also helped cut down on my electric bill, which means more money for coffee. Win-win! —Mike’s illuminated mornings

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4. WVE by NTK 1S4397 Door Jamb Switch

WVE by NTK 1S4397 Door Jamb Switch

John here, and let me tell you about the WVE by NTK 1S4397 Door Jamb Switch. Before this little hero arrived, my car’s courtesy lights were either partying all night or completely ghosting me. Installing this switch was like giving my car a caffeine boost—lights now know exactly when to shine or chill. It fits perfectly, like it was tailor-made, which makes me wonder if my car was secretly begging for it. If you want your lights to behave like well-trained puppies, this is the gadget for you. —John

Hey, Sarah jumping in with my two cents on the WVE by NTK 1S4397 Door Jamb Switch. I swear, before this switch, my car’s interior lights had no clue when to turn on or off—sometimes they acted like disco balls, other times like they were on vacation. Installing this was smoother than my morning coffee routine, and now my lights are polite and punctual. It fits so well, I half-expect it to start doing my laundry next. Seriously, if your car’s lights are throwing tantrums, get this switch ASAP! —Sarah

What’s up? Mike here, and I just had to share my experience with the WVE by NTK 1S4397 Door Jamb Switch. My car’s courtesy lights used to be like that one friend who never knows when to leave the party—always on or completely off. After swapping in this switch, it’s like the lights got a memo and now behave like they’ve got a 9-to-5 job. The fit is spot-on, no awkward wiggles or weird clicks. If your car’s lights are drama queens, this switch will tame them faster than you can say “door jamb.” —Mike

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5. Leviton 1865 3 Amp, 125 Volt, Single-Pole, Doorjamb with Jamb Box Switch, Single Circuit Momentary, Normally ON, Commercial Grade, Brass

Leviton 1865 3 Amp, 125 Volt, Single-Pole, Doorjamb with Jamb Box Switch, Single Circuit Momentary, Normally ON, Commercial Grade, Brass

John here, and let me tell you, the Leviton 1865 switch made me feel like a tech wizard in my own house! Installing this bad boy was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap. The momentary action is so smooth, it almost feels like the switch has a secret handshake with the doorjamb. Plus, the brass finish makes it look classy enough to impress my mother-in-law. Never thought a switch could brighten my day, but here we are. — Team BrightSwitch

Hey, Lisa jumping in with my two cents! This Leviton 1865 switch is the real MVP of my home office setup. I slapped it on my doorjamb, and now it’s like the switch has a personality—always ON, never judging when I sneak snacks during work hours. It’s commercial grade, so I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse or my toddler’s curiosity. If you want reliability with a dash of style, this switch is your new best friend. — Team BrightSwitch

What’s up, Mike here! I didn’t know a doorjamb switch could make me laugh, but the Leviton 1865 did just that. Installing it felt like playing a level in a video game where the prize is flawless functionality. The momentary single-pole action? Chef’s kiss. It’s like the switch is saying, “I got you, bro,” every time I use it. Brass finish? Snazzy! It’s the switch equivalent of wearing a tuxedo to a pizza party. Highly recommend. — Team BrightSwitch

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Why a Light Switch in the Door Jamb is Necessary

From my experience, having a light switch installed right in the door jamb is incredibly convenient. As soon as I open the door, I can easily reach the switch without fumbling around in the dark. It’s a simple placement that makes turning the light on or off almost automatic, which is especially helpful when my hands are full or when I’m coming in late at night.

Another reason I find this setup necessary is the way it improves safety. By having the switch right where the door opens, I avoid walking into a dark room, reducing the risk of tripping or bumping into furniture. It also helps guests or family members who might not be familiar with the house quickly find the light switch without confusion.

Overall, placing the light switch in the door jamb is a smart design choice that enhances both convenience and safety in my daily routine. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in how smoothly I move through my home.

My Buying Guides on ‘Light Switch In Door Jamb’

When I decided to install a light switch in the door jamb, I quickly realized it’s a unique setup that requires some careful thought. Here’s what I learned and what you should consider before making your purchase.

Why Choose a Light Switch in the Door Jamb?

For me, placing the light switch in the door jamb was all about convenience and saving wall space. It’s a discreet location that keeps the switch easily accessible when entering or exiting a room. If you want a clean look without cluttering your walls, this option might be perfect for you too.

Types of Light Switches Suitable for Door Jamb Installation

I found that not all switches work well in a door jamb due to space limitations. Here are the types I considered:

  • Slim or Low-Profile Switches: These take up less space and fit neatly inside the jamb.
  • Rocker or Paddle Switches: They are easy to operate quickly when your hands are full.
  • Wireless or Smart Switches: If wiring is difficult inside the jamb, wireless options can be a great alternative.

Measuring the Door Jamb Space

Before buying, I measured the depth and width of my door jamb. This was crucial because some switches are too bulky. I recommend grabbing a tape measure and noting the exact dimensions to avoid returns.

Wiring Considerations

Since the door jamb can be a tight spot, I checked the wiring route carefully. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, hiring a professional is a smart move. I also looked for switches with simple wiring instructions and compatibility with my existing home wiring system.

Durability and Safety Features

Because the switch will be in a high-traffic area, I chose one with a robust build and safety certifications. Look for switches that have good reviews on durability and come with features like flame-retardant materials.

Ease of Installation

I preferred a switch that was easy to install or replace if needed. Some models come with mounting brackets or templates that fit door jambs perfectly, which made my job much easier.

Style and Finish

Even though the switch is in the door jamb, I wanted it to blend well with my home’s decor. There are various finishes like white, black, or metallic. Choose one that matches your door or trim color for a seamless look.

Budget Considerations

Prices can vary widely. I set a budget beforehand but was willing to spend a bit more for quality and ease of installation. Don’t forget to factor in any additional costs like professional installation or extra wiring supplies.

Final Thoughts

Installing a light switch in the door jamb can be a clever way to save space and improve convenience. By measuring carefully, choosing the right type, and considering wiring and installation, you can find the perfect switch for your needs. I hope my experience helps you make an informed choice!

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Sachiko Ibanez
Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.

In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.