Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights Review

The Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights deliver charming, weather-resistant ambiance at an unbeatable value. Perfect for patios, decks, or pergolas, these durable shatterproof mason jar lights offer a rustic aesthetic with easy installation and warm white illumination—ideal for year-round outdoor entertaining. A stylish, budget-friendly upgrade for any outdoor space.

Key Takeaways

• Weather-resistant design: Durable plastic jars withstand outdoor elements for year-round use.
• Easy installation: Plug-and-play setup requires no tools or electrical expertise.
• Energy-efficient LEDs: Low-wattage bulbs reduce power use while maintaining bright illumination.
• Versatile ambiance: Warm white glow enhances patios, gardens, or indoor spaces effortlessly.
• Cost-effective choice: Affordable pricing without compromising quality or aesthetic appeal.
• Lightweight and safe: Plastic construction eliminates breakage risks and simplifies handling.

First Impressions: A Charming Addition to Any Outdoor Space

Imagine this: a warm summer evening, the sun dipping below the horizon, and your backyard transformed into a cozy, glowing retreat. That’s the magic the Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights bring to the table. These lights are more than just a decorative touch—they’re a mood-setter, a conversation starter, and a way to extend your outdoor living hours well into the night. I first spotted them at a friend’s BBQ, where they were strung across the patio, casting a warm, inviting glow over the laughter and clinking glasses. Instantly, I knew I wanted to try them for myself.

What stood out to me immediately was their rustic, yet modern appeal. The mason jar design feels nostalgic, like something you’d see in a farmhouse or a cozy cottage, but the plastic construction makes them practical for everyday use. No glass to shatter, no worries about kids or pets bumping into them. They’re lightweight, durable, and surprisingly easy to set up—even if you’re not exactly a DIY pro. After using them for a few weeks, I can confidently say they’ve become a staple in my outdoor decor. But are they perfect? Let’s dive into the details to find out.

Design and Build Quality: Rustic Charm Meets Practicality

Materials and Construction

The Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights are crafted from high-quality plastic, which is both a blessing and a curse. On the plus side, the plastic is shatterproof, making these lights ideal for households with kids or pets. You don’t have to worry about broken glass or sharp edges if they accidentally get knocked over. The jars themselves are molded to mimic the classic mason jar look, with a textured finish that gives them a surprisingly authentic feel. The caps are made from sturdy plastic too, with a slightly frosted look that diffuses the light beautifully.

However, the plastic does have a downside: it’s not as heavy or premium as glass. If you’re looking for a super high-end, luxurious vibe, these might not be your first choice. But for everyday use, the lightweight design is actually a win. They’re easy to hang, and the plastic won’t rust or degrade over time, even if they’re exposed to rain or humidity. The string itself is a black, weather-resistant cord, which blends seamlessly into most outdoor settings. The 10 lights are spaced about 12 inches apart, which I found to be the perfect distance for even, ambient lighting.

Bulb Type and Brightness

Each jar houses a warm white LED bulb, which emits a soft, inviting glow—perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere. The bulbs are rated at 0.5 watts each, so they’re energy-efficient and won’t drive up your electricity bill. The color temperature is around 2700K, which is that classic “warm white” hue you’d find in traditional incandescent bulbs. It’s not too harsh, not too dim, just right for outdoor gatherings.

One thing I loved is that the LEDs are non-replaceable, but they’re rated for 20,000 hours of use. That’s roughly 5 years if you use them 10 hours a night, 7 days a week. So unless you’re planning to keep these lights on 24/7, you likely won’t need to worry about replacing bulbs. The brightness is just right for ambient lighting, but if you’re looking for task lighting (like for grilling or reading), you’ll probably want to supplement with brighter fixtures.

Weather Resistance

The Hampton Bay lights are rated for outdoor use, with a weather-resistant design that can handle rain, wind, and humidity. I tested them during a rainy weekend, and they held up beautifully—no flickering, no water damage, just steady, reliable light. The plastic jars are sealed well enough to keep moisture out, and the cord is thick and durable. That said, I wouldn’t recommend leaving them out in extreme weather, like during a hurricane or blizzard. While they’re built to last, they’re not indestructible. A little common sense goes a long way—bring them in during severe storms, and you’ll extend their lifespan significantly.

Installation and Setup: Simple, But Not Foolproof

Hanging Options

Setting up the Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights is straightforward, but it’s not entirely plug-and-play. The lights come with a built-in hook on each jar cap, which makes them easy to hang on nails, screws, or even tree branches. I used small cup hooks screwed into my patio beams, and the lights hung perfectly. If you’re going for a more rustic look, you could even use twine or fishing line to string them across a pergola or between trees.

One thing to note: the lights don’t come with any mounting hardware, so you’ll need to provide your own. This is a minor inconvenience, but it also gives you the flexibility to choose the hardware that best fits your setup. For example, if you’re hanging them on a wooden fence, you might want to use small eye screws. If you’re attaching them to a metal pergola, zip ties or S-hooks could work better. The key is to plan ahead and make sure your hanging points can support the weight (which is minimal, but still worth considering).

Cord Length and Plug Placement

The total length of the string is 12 feet, with the first light located about 2 feet from the plug. This means you’ll need to place your outlet within that 2-foot radius of where you want the first light to hang. If your outlet is farther away, you’ll need an extension cord—just make sure it’s rated for outdoor use. I found this setup to be a bit limiting at first, but with a little creativity, I was able to route the cord discreetly along my patio railing.

Pro tip: if you’re using an extension cord, try to hide it with plants, furniture, or outdoor decor. Nobody wants a messy-looking cord ruining the ambiance! I tucked mine behind a potted plant, and it was barely noticeable. Another option is to use a cord cover, which can be painted to match your outdoor setup for a seamless look.

Connecting Multiple Strings

If you’re planning to cover a larger area, you can connect up to three strings end-to-end. The Hampton Bay lights have a male and female plug on each end, so you can daisy-chain them together. I tried this with two strings, and it worked perfectly—no drop in brightness or flickering. Just make sure you don’t exceed the recommended limit of three strings, or you could overload the circuit. Also, be mindful of where you place the connections; try to keep them out of direct contact with water or moisture to prevent shorting.

Performance and Usability: How Do They Hold Up?

Light Quality and Ambiance

The Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights deliver exactly what they promise: a warm, inviting glow that transforms your outdoor space. The mason jar design diffuses the light beautifully, creating a soft, ambient effect rather than a harsh, direct beam. I used them for a backyard dinner party, and the lighting was perfect—just bright enough to see what I was eating, but not so bright that it killed the cozy vibe.

One thing I loved is how the light reflects off the textured plastic, creating subtle shadows and highlights that add depth to the overall look. It’s not just a flat glow; it’s dynamic and engaging. The warm white color is also great for setting a relaxed, intimate mood. If you’re looking for something more vibrant or colorful, these might not be the best fit—but for classic, timeless ambiance, they’re spot-on.

Durability and Longevity

After several weeks of use, the lights are holding up well. The plastic hasn’t yellowed or cracked, even with daily exposure to sunlight and occasional rain. The LEDs are still as bright as the day I unboxed them, and there’s no sign of flickering or dimming. The cord is also in great shape, with no fraying or kinking.

That said, I did notice a few minor issues. The plastic caps on the jars can sometimes pop off if you’re adjusting the lights or hanging them in a tight space. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to be mindful of. Also, while the lights are weather-resistant, they’re not fully waterproof. If you live in an area with frequent heavy rain or snow, you might want to bring them in during the off-season to prolong their life.

Ease of Use

Once installed, the Hampton Bay lights are incredibly easy to use. There’s no app to download, no remote to lose—just plug them in and enjoy. I love that simplicity. The on/off switch is located on the plug itself, which is convenient but can be a bit awkward if the plug is tucked away behind furniture or plants. A remote control or timer option would be a nice addition, but it’s not a huge drawback.

One thing to keep in mind: these lights don’t have a dimming function. They’re either on or off, so if you want adjustable brightness, you’ll need to pair them with a smart plug or a dimmer switch. For most casual users, though, the fixed brightness is perfectly fine.

Value for Money: Are They Worth the Investment?

Price Point and Comparison

The Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights are priced competitively for their quality and features. At around $25-$30 (depending on where you buy them), they’re not the cheapest option on the market, but they’re far from the most expensive either. When you compare them to similar mason jar string lights, they stand out for their durability, weather resistance, and classic design.

For example, I looked at a few glass mason jar options, but they were significantly more expensive (often $50+ for a 10-light string) and came with the added risk of breakage. Other plastic options were cheaper, but they felt flimsy or had poor weather resistance. The Hampton Bay lights strike a great balance between affordability and quality.

What You Get for the Price

For under $30, you get:

• 10 warm white LED bulbs (20,000-hour lifespan)
• 12-foot string with 12-inch spacing
• Weather-resistant plastic construction
• Ability to connect up to three strings
• Built-in hanging hooks

Considering all this, the value is excellent. You’re not just paying for the lights—you’re paying for peace of mind (no broken glass), durability (weather-resistant design), and versatility (easy to connect and customize). If you’re on a tight budget, you might find cheaper alternatives, but you’ll likely sacrifice quality or longevity.

Long-Term Cost Considerations

Another thing to love is the energy efficiency. At 0.5 watts per bulb, these lights consume very little power. If you use them for 5 hours a night, 300 nights a year, the annual energy cost would be less than $1. That’s a tiny investment for the ambiance they provide.

Also, the 20,000-hour lifespan means you won’t need to replace the bulbs for years. Even if you use them heavily, they’ll likely outlast cheaper alternatives that require frequent bulb changes or replacements.

Creative Uses and Styling Tips: Beyond the Basics

Patio and Pergola Lighting

The most obvious use for these lights is stringing them across a patio or pergola. I’ve done this, and it’s a game-changer. The mason jar design adds a rustic, farmhouse vibe that works with almost any decor style—whether you’re going for modern, traditional, or eclectic. For extra flair, I added some sheer curtains to my pergola, and the lights created a beautiful, dappled effect when they shined through the fabric.

Tip: if you’re hanging them on a pergola, try to angle the jars slightly downward. This ensures the light is directed where you need it most (like on seating areas or dining tables) instead of shining straight up into the sky.

Tree and Garden Decor

Another fun use is wrapping the lights around tree trunks or branches. I have a small maple tree in my backyard, and I wound the lights around the lower branches. It looked magical at night, like something out of a fairy tale. You can also drape them across garden fences, trellises, or even along a pathway for a whimsical touch.

Pro tip: if you’re using them on trees, make sure the branches are sturdy enough to support the weight. You don’t want the lights pulling down weak or young branches.

Indoor and Event Decor

Don’t limit these lights to just outdoor use! They work great indoors too. I’ve used them in my living room for movie nights, hanging them across the ceiling or along a bookshelf. They’re also perfect for parties, weddings, or holiday decor. The warm white light creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

For events, consider pairing them with other decor elements—like fairy lights, candles, or greenery—to create a layered, dynamic look. I once used them at a baby shower, strung across a backdrop with paper flowers and bunting. The effect was stunning!

Seasonal and Themed Decor

The versatility of these lights makes them great for seasonal decor. In the fall, pair them with pumpkins and corn stalks. In the winter, wrap them around a faux snow-covered tree or hang them with ornaments. They’re not just a summer accessory—they’re a year-round decor staple.

One of my favorite tricks is to use colored filters (like gel sheets or cellophane) over the jars to change the light color. For Halloween, I used orange filters; for Christmas, I used red and green. It’s an easy, affordable way to customize the look for any occasion.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy These Lights?

After weeks of testing, I can confidently say the Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add charm and ambiance to their outdoor (or indoor) space. They’re not perfect—the plastic isn’t as premium as glass, and the lack of dimming or remote control might be a downside for some—but the pros far outweigh the cons.

Here’s who I’d recommend them for:

• Outdoor entertainers: If you love hosting BBQs, dinner parties, or casual hangouts, these lights will elevate your space and keep the fun going after dark.
• Families with kids or pets: The shatterproof plastic is a huge safety plus.
• DIY decorators: The easy setup and versatility make them great for creative projects.
• Budget-conscious shoppers: The price-to-quality ratio is excellent, and the long lifespan means you won’t need to replace them anytime soon.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for high-end, luxury lighting or need super-bright task lighting, you might want to explore other options. But for cozy, ambient lighting that’s both functional and stylish, these lights are hard to beat.

In the end, the Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights have earned a permanent spot in my outdoor decor lineup. They’re charming, durable, and incredibly versatile—a small investment that delivers big returns in ambiance and enjoyment. Whether you’re lighting up a patio, a tree, or an event, these lights are sure to bring a smile to your face. And honestly, isn’t that what great decor is all about?

Feature	Details
Number of Lights	10
Bulb Type	Warm white LED (2700K)
Power Consumption	0.5 watts per bulb
String Length	12 feet (first light 2 feet from plug)
Spacing	12 inches between lights
Weather Resistance	Yes (rated for outdoor use)
Connectable	Up to 3 strings
Lifespan	20,000 hours
Price Range	$25-$30

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar Patio String Lights best used for?

These Hampton Bay string lights are ideal for patios, decks, porches, or pergolas, adding a charming rustic ambiance to outdoor spaces. Their weather-resistant design makes them perfect for year-round outdoor entertaining or everyday decor.

Are the Hampton Bay mason jar string lights weatherproof?

Yes, the plastic mason jar lights are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, including rain and humidity. However, they should not be left submerged in water or exposed to extreme weather for prolonged periods.

How long is the total length of the Hampton Bay 10-light string?

The string measures approximately 10.5 feet from the plug to the end of the last bulb, with 12-inch spacing between each mason jar. This provides ample coverage for small to medium-sized outdoor areas.

Do the Hampton Bay 10-Light Plastic Mason Jar lights come with bulbs?

Yes, they come pre-installed with 10 energy-efficient LED bulbs (included). The bulbs are permanently sealed in the jars, so they’re not replaceable, but the LEDs are rated for long-term use.

Can I connect multiple Hampton Bay mason jar string lights together?

No, these lights are not connectable end-to-end like some other string lights. Each unit must be plugged into a separate outlet, which helps maintain consistent brightness across the strand.

Are these Hampton Bay patio string lights safe for use around children and pets?

Yes, the plastic mason jars and cool-to-the-touch LED bulbs make them safer than glass or incandescent alternatives. However, the string should still be installed out of reach to avoid accidental tugging or chewing.