Compact florescent lightbulbs (CFLs) use less energy than traditional bulbs. Most types of CFLs are interchangeable with traditional bulbs. In the instance of a touch-sensitive lamp, however, not all CFLs are exchangeable with traditional lightbulbs. Touch-sensitive lamps have a dimming circuit that lowers or increases power to the lightbulb to adjust the amount of light output. Traditional CFLs require very little power to function, and touch lamps cannot provide enough power at a low light setting for the bulb to function. Only newer, dimmable CFLs can function within a touch lamp. When using a touch-sensitive lamp, you must use dimmable CFL bulbs.
Unplug the lamp from the electrical outlet.
Unscrew and remove the existing light bulb(s) from the lamp.
Screw in and install dimmable CFL(s) into the lamp, and plug the lamp back into the power outlet. Only CFLs specifically marked as dimmable will function in touch lamps. Standard CFLs will not function in the lamp.