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Bathroom lighting buying guide
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Bathroom lighting buying guide

Posted by Adam Chard in Buying guides | 4 years ago 7 min read

In this expert buying guide, we examine all the dos and don'ts when buying bathroom lighting, explaining IP ratings, bathroom electrical zones and answering common questions.

One vitally important thing for anyone to know is that electricity and water don’t mix, that’s why buying bathroom lighting isn’t the most straightforward of experiences.

The bathroom is covered by stringent safety regulations when it comes to electricity, so you'll need to hire a qualified and experienced electrician to carry out the job (that is unless you are an experienced and qualified electrician yourself!).

But none of this should stop you choosing the right bathroom lighting for your home. In our handy buying guide, you'll find a whole lot of useful information when it comes to the IP rating of your lights, bathroom zones and the types of lighting you can choose from.


Bathroom lighting guide contents

Click on any of the links below to jump to the section you’re most interested in:


IP Ratings explained

Each light we sell has its own IP rating. IP stands for "Ingress Protection" and shows how resistant each light is to water. The higher the rating, the better the protection - it's that simple.

Each IP rating contains 2 numbers. The first number demonstrates the degree of protection the lighting unit offers from foreign objects and the second number demonstrates its resistance to moisture.

IP ratings explained

You'll need a certain IP rating for bathroom lighting used in certain bathroom zones (which we'll move onto shortly).

IP rating examples:

IP20

  • First number (intrusion protection) - 2 = Protection from a large part of the body such as a hand (but no protection from deliberate access); from solid objects greater than 50mm in diameter.
  • Second number (moisture protection) - 0 = No protection.

IP44

  • First number (intrusion protection) - 4 = Protection from entry by tools, wires etc., with a diameter of 2.5mm or more.
  • Second number (moisture protection) - 4 = Protection from spray up to 60° from vertical.

IP65

  • First number (intrusion protection) - 6 = Protection against dust that may harm equipment.
  • Second number (moisture protection) - 5 = Protection against water spray from all directions.

Bathroom electrical zones explained

Depending on how big your bathroom is and where certain items are situated, your bathroom will be split into different zones which are suitable for different electrical items.

This diagram demonstrates the different zones and clearances between different elements in your bathroom:

Bathroom electrical zones

You can find out more about bathroom electrical zones in our bathroom electrical installation blog post.


Types of bathroom lighting

Now you know more about the safety aspects involved, it's time to get on with the fun part! Choosing your new bathroom lighting.

Ceiling lights

Bathroom ceiling lights have always been viewed as very functional, with a general lack of design choices. That is until now...

Whilst you can still find quite simple designs, such as flush fitting bathroom ceiling lights, you are now faced with a greater choice than ever before. Choose between elaborate designs that match your bathroom decor, like decorative bathroom chandeliers, or more contemporary fixtures.

Bathroom lighting chandelier

Looking to create a glamorous bathroom? A chandelier will make things "crystal" clear

Downlights and spotlights

A more modern choice for your bathroom lighting comes in the form of downlights. Fitting into, and sitting flush to, your ceiling, these lights are extremely discreet and provide a more even illumination across your whole room.

They may require more installation work than a single lighting outlet, but the overall effect is impressive. Plus, with some downlights, you can specifically angle the beam to highlight certain elements, such as your bath or basin.

Bathroom downlights

Bathroom downlights are a modern alternative to the single lighting fixture

You will also find shower lights that are designed specifically for the ceiling above your shower, turning a daily wash in the gloom into a more illuminating experience. These usually have a higher IP rating, e.g. IP65.

Wall lights

For a more subdued mood, wall lighting is the perfect choice. Some wall lights can also work independently to your main lighting, with a pull cord operating a switch.

Bathroom wall lights

A wall light provides extra illumination, right where you need it most

Cabinet lighting

Something you may not have considered is making a feature of your cabinet with lighting. This can be achieved in 4 main ways:

  1. A strip light that attaches to the underside of your cabinet
  2. An LED light that attaches to the underside of your cabinet
  3. Flexible LED lighting that can be shaped to follow the contours of your cabinet
  4. Furniture with built-in LEDs, like those from our Heath collection

Whichever method you choose, this can be an effective and impactful way of bringing added illumination to your bathroom.

LED strip lighting

Make a real impact with flexible LED strip lighting


Frequently asked questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about bathroom lighting.

Can any light go in a bathroom? Or do I need IP rated lights in the bathroom?

As we’ve already mentioned in this guide, bathrooms are split into electrical zones which require a certain degree of ingress protection (IP). Outside of zones 0—2, there is no requirement for any sort of specialist lighting, however, if in doubt, look for lighting with an IP44 rating or higher, as this will offer protection from splashes. Many regular household lights (designed for use in living spaces) come with an IP20 rating. Avoid using these in bathrooms as they offer no protection from moisture ingress.

How bright should my bathroom lighting be?

There really is no easy answer to this question. It all depends on your personal taste. However, it does pay to have relatively bright lighting in your bathroom, to help with all those closeup tasks like applying makeup or shaving.

One quick and easy way to work out how much brightness you’ll need is to measure your bathroom. Work out the space in metres squared and then multiply by 25 to give you your desired bulb wattage. For example, an average bathroom space measuring around 2.5m x 2.5m = 6.25 sq. m x 25 = roughly 155 watts.

What colour lighting is best for bathrooms?

Like anywhere in your home, white light is always preferred. With modern LED bulbs, you can usually choose between warm or cool white, depending on the type of ambience you’re looking to create.

Do I need special downlights for my bathroom?

As mentioned above, it is always recommended you use lighting with an IP44 rating or higher when choosing ceiling lighting (as long as your ceilings are outside of electrical zones 0–2. If your downlights are to be used directly above a bath or shower, it is worth considering models with an IP65 rating.

Can a landlord put non-IP rated lights in a bathroom?

When used outside of bathroom electrical zones 0–2, there is no legal requirement to use a specific IP rated light. However, lighting with an IP44 rating or above is always recommended in these areas. Your landlord must legally comply with Part P of the Building Regulations ("Requirements for Electrical Installations") when fitting any lighting, anywhere in the home, including bathrooms.

Is there any special consideration for wall lighting in bathrooms?

Wall lighting is more likely to be within electrical zones 1 and 2, than ceiling lighting. Therefore, you need to make extra sure the IP rating of any wall lighting is suitable for use in your bathroom.


Other things to think about

Electrical installation

As with any electrical installation (and especially in the bathroom), do not attempt any of the work yourself, unless you are a fully qualified and experienced electrician.

Light switch

Bathroom lights are normally operated either by a cord which hangs from the ceiling, or a wall switch external to the bathroom. In both cases, they should be by your bathroom door, for ease of use.

Energy saving

Most modern bathroom lights come with energy-saving features as standard, but there are still ways you can save on energy.

  • Turn off your main bathroom light as soon as you leave the bathroom - this will get you into good habits
  • Use LED lighting as much as possible—it's more energy-efficient
  • Replace any old bulbs with modern, energy-saving bulbs

Handy hint: See our top 10 energy-saving tips for your home.

Forum Bubble 3 light bathroom spot light

LED lighting, like the Forum Bubble 3 light spot light pictured above, uses energy more efficiently than conventional bulbs


Buy bathroom lighting

Now you have the know-how, why not browse our fabulous range of bathroom lighting for lighter, brighter interiors.

Shop bathroom lighting

Still searching for inspiration? Why not browse our latest bathroom lighting ideas?

Author, Adam Chard

Posted by Adam Chard in Buying guides | 4 years ago

A born & raised West Countryman, now living on the Yorkshire Coast, for over 10 years Adam has been bringing home interior ideas to life at Victoria Plum. Adam’s favourite interior styles have been shaped by both urban and natural influences.

Sales Line 0344 264 4141 Track order Design Service Trade account

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