Does bathroom lighting differ, when compared to other lighting in your home? Allow us to illuminate you.
Bathroom lighting is an important aspect of any home design. It plays a crucial role in setting the mood and tone of the space, as well as providing functional lighting for grooming and other activities. However, many people wonder if bathroom lights are different from other types of lighting. In this blog post, we'll explore this question in detail.
Different types of bathroom lighting
Firstly, it is important to understand that bathroom lights don’t necessarily have to be different from other types of lights. In fact, many of the same lighting fixtures that are used in other rooms of the home can be used in the bathroom as well. For example, recessed lighting, pendant lights, wall lights and even chandeliers can all be used in the bathroom to create a variety of lighting effects.
Choose lighting fixtures suitable for bathrooms
That being said, there are some considerations that need to be taken into account when choosing lighting fixtures for the bathroom; one of the most important being safety.
Bathrooms are wet and humid environments, and it is important to choose lighting fixtures that are designed to be used in such environments. This means that the fixtures should be rated for damp or wet locations, and they should have proper insulation to prevent any electrical hazards.
All UK bathrooms are split into specific electrical zones, depending on distances from things like the bath or shower. For example, if you wish to fit lights in zone 2, you’ll need to ensure it has a suitable Ingress Protection (IP) rating for that zone.
To find out more about the specific electrical requirements for bathrooms, read our in-depth guide to electrical products and bathroom safety.
Choosing the right bulb
Another consideration is the type of light bulb that is used in the fixture. Bathroom lights should provide plenty of illumination for grooming tasks, such as applying makeup or shaving. You should use bright, white light bulbs in the bathroom to ensure that the space is well-lit. LED lights are a popular choice for bathroom lighting, as they are energy-efficient and provide bright, white light.
Additionally, some people prefer to use lighting fixtures that are specifically designed for the bathroom. These fixtures may have features such as built-in ventilation fans, which can help to reduce moisture in the bathroom and prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
Your light switch
One other way in which bathroom lighting differs is the way in which you’ll switch it on and off. Regular light switches (like the ones you’d find in your living room or bedroom) aren’t suitable for bathroom interiors. Instead, you may choose to install a pull cord switch, which hangs down from the ceiling, place your light switch on the wall outside your bathroom door or fit a wireless light switch that isn't connected to the mains.
Additional lighting
As mentioned, bathroom lighting is usually bright, to help with everyday tasks. However, to help you get the ambience just right, you may want to consider supplementary lighting, in the form of wall lights or an illuminated mirror. Illuminated mirrors (like the one pictured below) often come with other handy features, like a demister, which keeps the pane free from steam and condensation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bathroom lights aren’t necessarily different from other types of lights. Many of the same lighting fixtures can be used in the bathroom, as long as they are IP rated for damp or wet locations and have proper insulation. However, there are some considerations that need to be taken into account when choosing bathroom lighting, such as safety, brightness and special features. By keeping these considerations in mind, you can choose the perfect lighting fixtures to create a beautiful and functional bathroom space.
Shop bathroom lighting
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More advice on bathroom lighting
Unless you are a qualified electrician, you should NEVER attempt any DIY electrical tasks. However, it's always worth reading up on the subject to help broaden your knowledge.
As previously mentioned, it is certainly worth taking a look at our guide to electrical products and bathroom safety before considering any electrical installation in your bathroom. We also offer plenty of expert advice in our bathroom lighting buying guide.
Thinking of fitting a bathroom entertainment system? Read our guide to bathroom TVs and audio.
And, finally, if you need an electric shower fitting, discover which Tradesperson you need to hire.
