Lighting… It’s one of the many things you need to consider when refurbishing your bathroom. So, where do you begin? Check out our expert guide for instant illumination.
Your bathroom is a sanctuary, a place where you can relax and unwind, and the right lighting can make all the difference in creating that perfect ambience. But with so many different types of bathroom lights on the market, it can all be a little overwhelming.
In this practical guide, we’ll show you exactly where to start and how to begin narrowing down your selection. So, without further ado, let’s begin…
Consider the purpose of the light
The first step in choosing bathroom lights is to consider the purpose of each light. Do you need a bright overhead light for general illumination? A vanity light for applying makeup or shaving? Or a softer, more ambient light for relaxing in the bath?
Once you have thought long and hard about this, you should have a good idea just how many lights you actually need.
Many bathrooms only require a central lighting fixture
Think about the style of your bathroom
The style of your bathroom should also be a factor in your lighting choices. For a modern bathroom, you might choose sleek, contemporary fixtures. For a traditional bathroom, you might prefer more ornate fixtures. And for a rustic bathroom, you might choose fixtures with a more organic feel.
Simple yet stylish: Lighting fixtures like this one from EGLO are ideal for contemporary bathrooms
Choose the right light temperature
The colour temperature of a light bulb is measured in degrees Kelvin (K). A lower Kelvin number indicates a warmer, more yellow light, while a higher Kelvin number indicates a cooler, more blue light. For bathrooms, it is generally recommended to choose a light bulb with a Kelvin rating between 2700K and 3000K, as this will provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.
However, when it comes to something like an illuminated mirror, you may wish to choose a cooler light, to bring a more contemporary feel to your surroundings.
Always check which type of light your bathroom lighting or illuminated mirror gives off
Use layers of light
The best way to create a well-lit bathroom is to use layers of light. This means using a combination of overhead lights, vanity lights, and accent lights. Overhead lights will provide general illumination, while vanity lights will task lighting for specific tasks. Accent lights—often in the form of wall lights—can be used to create a more dramatic or atmospheric effect.
Wall lights add another layer of light, in addition to your ceiling lights
Consider your electricity usage
Choosing lighting that cuts your electricity bill is something more and more of us are thinking about. With nearly 4 in 10 adults saying they find it difficult to afford energy bills (according to the Office for National Statistics), it’s absolutely worth considering.
LEDs are typically cheaper to run than conventional fluorescent lighting. And, if you work out how much time your bathroom lighting remains switched on, you can see how this will save you a sizeable amount of money over time.
Downlights, with GU10 LED bulbs, will help you save money on your electricity bills
Safety first
When choosing bathroom lights, it is important to make sure that they are safety rated for use in humid environments. All bathroom lights should be rated IP44 or higher. This means that they are protected from splashing water.
If you’d like to find out more, read our guide to electrical products and bathroom safety, where we explain all about UK regulations, bathroom electrical zones and IP (Ingress Protection) ratings.
Discover more about bathroom electrical zones in our expert guide
Get professional help
If you are still feeling unsure about how to choose bathroom lights, it is always a good idea to consult with a professional electrician or lighting designer. They can help you choose the right lights for your needs and ensure that they are installed safely and correctly.
With a little planning and consideration, you can easily choose the perfect bathroom lights to create a space that is both beautiful and functional.
A chandelier, made specifically for bathroom use, will make a luxurious addition to any traditional style space
Shop bathroom lights at Victoria Plum
As the UK’s largest online only bathroom retailer, you’ll find everything you need to create your dream bathroom, including a fabulous selection of bathroom lights from established brands such as EGLO Lighting and Forum. From ceiling lights to downlights, click below to begin browsing.
Bathroom lights: Expert advice and fresh inspiration
As bathroom experts, we really are full of bright ideas when it comes to bathroom lights. Discover some great bathroom lighting inspiration, as we explore your options and find out more before you buy with our in-depth bathroom lighting guide.
If your bathroom is particularly dark and gloomy, we’ll even show you how to use mirrors to create more light.
