The £6 Home Bargains Waterfall Light: 2026 Hands-On Review
If you spent any time on TikTok in early 2026, you have probably seen the frenzy surrounding the Home Bargains waterfall light. UK shoppers are desperately seeking zero-running-cost garden upgrades ahead of spring. Naturally, I joined the rush. After seeing the viral videos, I headed straight to the local Home Bargains garden aisle to grab one before the shelves inevitably emptied.
Today, we are putting the £5.99 Firefly hanging watering can light to the test. We will find out if the real-world twinkle actually matches the social media hype, and show you exactly how to set it up to survive unpredictable UK weather.
The Home Bargains waterfall light, officially named the Firefly Hanging Watering Can Solar Light, is a £5.99 garden ornament. It features 37 warm white LEDs strung from a metal can, standing 80cm tall. It is entirely solar-powered, turning on automatically at dusk to create a twinkling, pouring water illusion.
Key Takeaways
- Viral bargain: Priced at just £5.99, making it one of the cheapest garden lighting options available in 2026.
- Zero running costs: 100% solar-powered with a rechargeable battery included.
- Automatic activation: Built-in sensors turn the 37 warm white LEDs on automatically at dusk.
- Setup rule: You must remove the protective plastic from the solar panel and flick the ‘ON’ switch before your first charge.
What Actually Is the Viral “Waterfall” Light?
Unboxing and Technical Specs
The product causing all this fuss is officially named the Firefly Hanging Watering Can Solar Light. Straight out of the box, you get a lightweight metal watering can pre-strung with delicate copper wires. These wires hold the LED bulbs that create the famous pouring water effect.
Here are the exact 2026 product specifications Home Bargains Official Product Page:
- Height: Approximately 80cm from the top of the can to the bottom of the longest wire.
- Bulbs: 37 individual LEDs.
- Colour temperature: Warm white for a soft, inviting glow.
- Power source: Integrated top-mounted solar panel.
The “Zero Cost” Solar Promise
One of the main reasons this product is flying off the shelves is the promise of zero electricity bills. The unit is entirely solar-powered and comes with a rechargeable battery already included in the box.
During the day, the top-mounted solar panel absorbs sunlight to charge the internal battery. Once the sun sets, an automatic dusk-to-dawn sensor triggers the lights to turn on. You never need to plug it into the mains or worry about switching it off before bed.
Setting Up for Maximum “Twinkle” (UK Weather Guide)
Step-by-Step Installation
Getting the perfect cascading effect requires a little bit of patience. Follow these simple steps for a flawless setup:
- Unbox and untangle: Carefully remove the watering can and gently separate the LED wires. They are delicate, so take your time to avoid snapping the copper.
- Activate the battery: Locate the small switch underneath the solar panel and slide it to the “ON” position.
- Choose your hook: Hang the can from a sturdy branch, a fence post, or a metal shepherd’s crook.
STOP: Common Setup Mistake!
Do not forget to peel the clear protective plastic film off the solar panel and flick the ‘ON’ switch hidden underneath before your first charge. If you miss this, your lights will never turn on!
Positioning Your Solar Panel in the UK
Finding the right spot in your garden is essential, especially when dealing with grey UK skies.
Expert Tip: To survive overcast UK spring weather, ensure the solar panel on top of the watering can faces South or South-West to capture maximum daylight hours. Avoid placing it directly under dense tree canopies or in the permanent shadow of your house.
Is the £5.99 Price Tag Worth It?
When a product goes this viral, it is natural to wonder if it actually lives up to the hype. For £5.99, you are getting a highly specific aesthetic that usually costs significantly more at traditional garden centres. The Daily Record noted that the product has garnered significant attention on social media platforms like TikTok, with users consistently describing it as “visually striking”.
But is it perfect? Not quite. Here is a breakdown of what you get for your money.
Pros & Cons List
Pros:
- Unbeatable price: At just £5.99, it is an incredibly cheap garden lighting idea.
- Zero electricity bills: Completely solar-powered.
- Visually striking effect: The 37 LEDs create a genuine twinkling waterfall illusion.
- Ready to use: The rechargeable battery is included in the box.
Cons:
- Requires separate hanging hardware: You will need to buy your own shepherd’s crook or hook.
- Lightweight construction: The metal can is thin and could dent if dropped on a hard patio.
- Weather dependent: Like all cheap solar lights, it relies on bright, sunny days for a full night’s charge.
How Does It Compare to Rivals? (B&Q vs Amazon)
Home Bargains is not the only retailer selling a watering can light this spring. However, they are currently winning the price war. The Liverpool Echo recently highlighted this competitive pricing, pointing out that similar models at other UK retailers cost nearly double.
If you are trying to decide between the Home Bargains version and other popular options, consider the following comparisons.
| Feature | Home Bargains Firefly | B&Q GloBrite | Typical Amazon Alternatives |
| Price | £5.99 | £9.49 | £12.99+ |
| Power Source | Solar | Solar | Solar / Battery |
| Effect | Twinkling Waterfall | Static / Twinkle | Various |
While the B&Q GloBrite offers a similar aesthetic, you are paying £3.50 more. The Amazon alternatives often feature heavier metal construction, but prices typically start around £12.99. For a budget patio makeover, the Home Bargains option remains the clear winner.
Design & Styling Ideas for Budget Patios
Buying the light is only half the battle. To get that viral TikTok look, you need to style it correctly. The goal is to make it look like glowing water is actively pouring onto your plants or patio.
The Height Requirement
The most critical styling factor is height. The LED strings measure roughly 80cm long. If you hang the can too low, the wires will pool on the ground and ruin the illusion.
- The Shepherd’s Crook Test: Do you have a shepherd’s crook at least 1 metre high? This allows the 80cm wires to hang freely without bunching on the grass.
- Fence Posts: Hanging the can from a high fence post bracket allows the lights to cascade down a trellis or wall.
Best Places to Hang Your Lights
Where should you place your new waterfall light? Here are a few reliable spots:
- Over large planters: Position the can so the lights “pour” directly into a large pot filled with spring flowers.
- Flanking a garden pathway: Buy two and place them on either side of a walkway to guide guests at night.
- Patio borders: Hang them near your outdoor seating area to add a warm, ambient glow to your evenings.
FAQs
Are the Home Bargains waterfall lights waterproof?
While specific IP ratings are not detailed online, these lights are designed for outdoor UK use. They will survive typical spring showers, but it is best to bring them inside during severe winter storms.
How long do the solar batteries take to charge?
In bright, direct sunlight, the panel needs about 6 to 8 hours to fully charge. On overcast UK days, the charge will be weaker, and the lights may not stay on as long at night.
Can you replace the battery in the Home Bargains solar light?
Yes. Most garden solar lights use a standard rechargeable AA or AAA battery. Check the compartment under the solar panel if you need to replace it after a year or two.
Why is my new solar watering can light not turning on?
The most common mistake is forgetting to turn the switch to the “ON” position underneath the solar panel. Also, ensure you have peeled off the protective plastic film from the panel itself.
Does it come with a hanging hook?
No. For £5.99, you only receive the watering can and the lights. You must provide your own hook, bracket, or shepherd’s crook.
Are the LED lights warm or cool white?
The Firefly model features warm white LEDs, which provide a soft, yellowish glow rather than a harsh blue-white light.
Can I leave them out in the winter?
You can, but the lack of strong sunlight means they will rarely charge fully. Storing them in a shed during the dark winter months will extend the lifespan of the rechargeable battery.
Final Verdict: A Spring 2026 Garden Essential?
The Home Bargains waterfall light is a genuine bargain. For just £5.99, it provides a striking visual upgrade to any outdoor space with absolutely zero running costs. While it does require a bit of careful positioning to capture enough UK sunlight, the twinkling effect is undeniably charming.
If you spot the Firefly Hanging Watering Can Solar Lights in your local store, they are absolutely worth adding to your trolley. Just remember to grab a shepherd’s crook while you are there!
Looking for more ways to upgrade your outdoor space on a budget? [Check out top 6 cheap garden lighting ideas for 2026.]
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