The extremely low price of standard plastic ceiling lights is mainly due to major compromises in materials and manufacturing processes. Before choosing them for your home, it is important to understand several key drawbacks.

1. Fast aging and yellowing

Ordinary plastic has poor resistance to UV exposure and aging:

• After long-term exposure to light—especially sunlight—it can turn yellow and brittle within 1–2 years, significantly reducing light transmission.
• Cold environments make the plastic fragile, while heat (e.g., in kitchens or sunlit balconies) accelerates deformation.
• Its typical lifespan is only 2–3 years, far shorter than acrylic (5–8 years) or glass (8–10 years).

2. Poor light transmission and uncomfortable lighting

Standard plastic offers only 70–80% light transmission, compared to over 92% for high-quality acrylic:

• To maintain brightness, manufacturers often increase LED power, which results in glare and uneven lighting.
• Some lights produce a dull, greyish illumination that makes spaces feel darker and strains the eyes.
• This type of diffuser is unsuitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or other long-stay areas.

3. Easily stained surface and difficult to clean

The surface of low-grade plastic is less smooth than acrylic:

• Dust, grease, and dirt adhere easily and embed into the surface.
• Cleaning with a cloth can leave micro-scratches, making the fixture appear dirtier over time.
• In kitchens or bathrooms, the plastic cover may darken, become sticky, and even harbor bacteria.

4. Limited environmental and safety performance

Most cheap plastic ceiling lights use recycled or low-quality plastic:

• They may contain excessive plasticizers and additives, leading to strong odors and long-term emission of harmful substances.
• Some models lack safety certifications (such as 3C), using simplified circuits that pose risks of short circuits or overload.
• They are particularly unsafe in humid environments.

In summary, while plastic ceiling lights are inexpensive to purchase, their short lifespan, poor lighting quality, and potential safety hazards make them a less cost-effective choice. Investing in acrylic or glass lighting provides better durability, safer performance, and more comfortable illumination in the long run.