Bathroom lights come in all manner of shapes, styles and sizes. This begs the question: “What type of lights should I choose for my bathroom?”. In this article, we’ll help you answer that very question.
The bathroom is one of the most functional rooms in your home, and it's important to have the right lighting to make it both an efficient and stylish space. There are many different types of bathroom lights available, so it can be tough to know where to start. In this blog post, we'll discuss the different types of bathroom lights and help you choose the right ones for your needs.
The stylish Eglo Barnham 4 spotlight ceiling light in black and copper is great for highlighting different parts of your bathroom
Types of bathroom lights
There are 3 main types of bathroom lights:
-
Ambient lighting provides general illumination throughout the bathroom. This type of lighting is important for all manner of bathroom tasks like brushing your teeth and getting dressed. This type of lighting can be provided by ceiling lights or downlights.
-
Task lighting is focused light that's used for specific tasks, such as applying makeup or shaving. This type of lighting can be provided by mirror lights (illuminated mirrors) or wall lights.
-
Accent lighting is used to highlight specific features in the bathroom, such as a bathtub, shower or vanity unit. This type of lighting can be provided by spotlights, downlights, under cabinet lighting or shower lights.
We’ll explore each type of bathroom lighting in more detail below.
Ambient lighting
Ceiling lights and downlights are the most popular choices, although spotlights can also be used, and chandeliers in more opulent spaces (see below).
The Forum Solen 5 light bathroom chandelier is a great way to illuminate a luxurious bathroom space
These days, many ambient lighting fixtures are compatible with LED bulbs rather than incandescent bulbs. LED lighting can save you money, which, with utility bills spiralling, can only be a good thing.
Task lighting
Illuminated mirrors or wall lights are great for this purpose, providing focused light where you need it most.
Wall lights can be used above or beside mirrors, to help you when applying makeup, putting contact lenses in or simply brushing your teeth (see below).
A pair of Forum Solis cylinder bathroom wall lights either side of a mirror, provides essential task lighting
Illuminated mirrors often come with other handy features, like demisters (meaning you can use them straight after a hot shower or bath) or hands-free on/off sensors (meaning you can operate them, even with soapy or wet hands). Some LED mirrors also double up as cabinets, giving you extra storage space too.
Accent lighting
Again, spotlights or downlights can be used to highlight specific parts of your bathroom, especially if you have a statement bath or wall you’d like to show off.
Under cabinet lighting is great for those relaxing moments when the main lighting fixture could be too bright. Meanwhile, shower lighting is designed specifically to highlight shower enclosures, with a greater degree of protection from splashes (you can read more on this below).
During festive periods, like Christmas, Diwali, Hannukah or Eid, you may even want to decorate your bathroom with temporary, festive lights for your home.
Bring illumination to those darker corners of your bathroom with the Forum Ligero 3 light bathroom spotlight
Choosing the right bathroom lights
When choosing bathroom lights, there are a few things you'll need to consider:
1. The size of your bathroom
The size of your bathroom will determine how much light you need. If your bathroom is small, you may only need 1 or 2 light fixtures. If your bathroom is large, you may need more light fixtures.
2. The style of your bathroom
The style of your bathroom will also influence your choice of light fixtures. If your bathroom has a traditional style, you may want to choose light fixtures with a classic design. If your bathroom has a modern style, you may want to choose light fixtures with a sleek, contemporary design.
3. The amount of natural light in your bathroom
The amount of natural light in your bathroom will also affect your choice of light fixtures. If your bathroom has a lot of natural light, you may not need as many artificial light fixtures. If your bathroom doesn't have a lot of natural light, you'll need to choose light fixtures that provide enough light for you to see clearly.
The Mode Caylen rectangular LED mirror with demister will help you supplement natural light in your bathroom
Safety considerations
When choosing bathroom lights, it's important to consider safety. Bathroom lights differ from other lights, in that all light fixtures should have an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of at least IP44. This means that the light fixture is protected against water splashes from any direction. The IP rating represents the degree to which the light is protected against ingress of water and particles (see below).
The higher the number, the higher the degree of protection. For example, lights that are used directly above showers (where the risk of splashes is greater) usually have an IP rating of at least IP65. This depends on which “zone” the light is in.
It's also important to choose light fixtures that are shatter-resistant. This will help to prevent injuries if the light fixture breaks. Discover more on this subject by reading our guide to bathrooms and electrical products.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bathroom lights is an important decision. By considering the size, style and natural light in your bathroom, you can choose the perfect light fixtures to create a functional and stylish space. For more expert advice, visit our bathroom lighting buying guide.
Shop bathroom lighting
Whatever type of bathroom light you’re looking for, you’ll find a huge range to choose from at Victoria Plum. With a fabulous selection of ceiling lights, spotlights, downlights and more, from established brands such as Eglo and Forum, you’re bound to find the product you want at a great price! Click below to begin browsing.
Expert help with bathroom lighting
Water and electricity don’t mix, so you should NEVER, EVER attempt electrical tasks yourself, unless (of course) you are a qualified electrician yourself. No matter how simple it may seem, it is never worth the risk.
Instead, why not expand your knowledge on bathroom electrics and lighting with some of our handy articles? First, we’d recommend reading our guide to electrical products and bathroom safety and then move on to our bathroom lighting guide, so you know exactly what to look out for before you buy.
