Types of Bathroom Light Fixtures
- Pendant Lights. Also referred to as a ‘drop’ or ‘suspender’, pendant lights are light fixtures that are mounted to the ceiling.
- Wall Sconces. Wall sconces, as the name suggests, are light fixtures that are fixed on the walls. ...
- Ceiling Lights. These are more commonly known as ‘recessed lighting’ that you will find in almost all modern-day bathrooms in today’s times.
- Vanity Lighting. The bathroom vanity is often the most overlooked area when it comes to lighting and illumination. ...
- Mirror Lights. Mirror lights are fancy and special light fixtures that are particularly meant for mirrors in the bathroom or bedrooms.
- Track Lights. This is a specialized lighting fixture that is mounted to the wall or ceiling of a room with individual heads or light fixtures in a continuous series.
- Chandelier. Like pendant lights, chandeliers are light fixtures that are also suspended and made to hang down from the ceiling.
- LED Strip Lighting. These are one of the newest, modern and most versatile types of lighting fixtures commonly found in contemporary households.
- Ceiling Lamp. Ceiling lamps have to be the most common type of lighting fixture in most modern or traditional bathrooms.
What is the best LED light for a bathroom?
Best LED: Pottery Barn Valburg Vanity Light. View On Pottery Barn. There are numerous benefits to LED lights, including that the bulbs last for years and use significantly less energy than comparable halogen bulbs. If you want an LED light for your bathroom, the Valburg Vanity Light is a stylish and versatile choice.
What are the best light bulbs for bathroom?
Typically, the best light bulbs for bathrooms offer a CRI of 90+, which translates to vivid color contrasts and clear light without excessively yellow overtones. The GE Reveal LED bulbs are popular for use in the bathroom since they deliver a light that is very similar to natural lighting conditions.
What are the best bathroom vanity lights?
- BEST OVERALL: PRESDE Modern LED Chrome Bath Mirror Lighting
- RUNNER UP: Bennington 3 Bulb Vanity Light Fixture
- BEST DIMMABLE: mirrea 48in Modern LED Vanity Light
- BEST SCONCE: Effimero Black Wall Sconce Lighting
- BEST PENDANT: Linea di Liara Primo Large Glass Globe Pendant Light
- BEST FOR MAKEUP: DINGLILIGHTING DLLT Wall Light Fixture
What is the best bathroom vanity lighting?
- BEST OVERALL: PRESDE Modern LED Chrome Bath Mirror Lighting
- RUNNER UP: Bennington 3 Bulb Vanity Light Fixture
- BEST DIMMABLE: mirrea 48in Modern LED Vanity Light
- BEST SCONCE: Effimero Black Wall Sconce Lighting
- BEST FOR MAKEUP: DINGLILIGHTING DLLT Wall Light Fixture
- ALSO CONSIDER: SOLFART Dimmable Bathroom Light
How Will You Be Using Your Bathroom Lighting?
What is the best zone for a shower light?
How to use a directional spotlight?
What to consider when choosing a bathroom light?
What is a bathroom spotlight?
What is zone 3 lighting?
How to prevent shadows in bathroom?
See 4 more
About this website
What kind of light should I put in my bathroom?
Chose bulbs or LED fixtures that emit bright white light with a high CRI (around 90-100) for the most accurate colors. Bulbs in the 'soft white' range of 2700K – 3000K are recommended for general bathroom use, and makeup application in particular.
Are LED lights good in a bathroom?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED light bulbs can last up to 25,000 hours, which significantly outlast traditional light bulbs. Therefore, LED light bulbs are some of the best bathroom fixture bulbs because they are energy-efficient and less prone to overheating.
Is warm white or cool white better for bathrooms?
Warm White Light (3,000 to 4,000 Kelvin) is more yellowish-white. These bulbs are best for kitchens and bathrooms. Cool White Light (4000K to 5000K) is a cooler white that contains more blue light and gives a brighter feel best suited to bathrooms and offices.
Is soft white or daylight better for bathroom?
Soft White or Daylight for Bathrooms In most bathroom or vanity applications, you want a brighter light. A preferable color temperature for a bathroom is 3000K (soft-white) to 5000K (cool white). Daylight can be too blue and sterile, so I like to err on the side of soft white to cool white.
How long do LED bathroom lights Last?
Most LED bulbs boast a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, which means that you may not have to splash out on LED replacement bulbs for up to 10 years after your original purchase. Incandescent bulbs and halogen bulbs will probably only last for 1000 - 2000 hours, compared to up to 100,000 hours for dimmable LEDs.
Can you put LED lights above shower?
Tip. A ceiling light above showers is acceptable, as long as the light is rated for moist/damp locations and the bottom of the light fixture is at least 8 feet from the top of the shower stall.
What Colour LED for bathroom?
whiteWhich colour temperature is the best for bathroom lighting? Your bathroom lighting must provide both bright light for styling and grooming and warm spa lighting. 3,500-4,000 Kelvin (neutral white) is ideal for bright light. Warm white to golden light between 2,700 and 3,300 Kelvin promotes relaxation.
Is a bathroom considered a damp location?
Bathrooms are considered damp rated. Due to the water (hot or cold) that's generated from the sink and shower, there's a chance for humidity to rest upon the bulb. Damp-rated areas include indoor pools, bathrooms, and light fixtures near the kitchen sink/stove.
IP20 in Bathroom Zone 1 | Electricians Forums | Electrical Safety ...
If it is definitely in zone 1 (e.g. less than 2.25m from finished floor level) that is definitely a no no. If isn't in zone 1 I'd still say (unless you've got high ceilings and a powerful extractor) it's a bodge as it's not suitable for the environment.
Do I need special lights in my bathroom? - Lighting Company
Hickin Electrical Wholesale Limited Registered office Unit 9 Vennland Business Park, Mart Road, Minehead, Somerset, TA24 5BJ Company Registration Number 3995505 VAT no. 752 989574
What type of bulb is used in bathroom vanities?
Bathroom vanities often use globe-shaped bulbs, which are more attractive than regular bulbs. These bulbs are identified by a “G” in their description; G25 is the most common globe-shaped bulb used in bathroom vanities, but there are larger bulbs, such as the G50, and smaller bulbs, including the G16.5.
How long do EcoSmart bulbs last?
The average lifespan for these EcoSmart bulbs is 11,000 hours —which is a little less than half of the life expectancy for other LED bulbs. At the same time, a four-pack costs under $6.
What is a G25 bulb?
Light bulbs for vanities are typically round and shaped like a globe—they ’re referred to as a G25 bulb. If you’re looking for a light bulb for the bathroom that casts unobstructed light and has a decorative appearance, then check out these Philips G25 Halogen bulbs.
How many lumens does a GE Reveal LED bulb have?
This makes the bulb ideal for beauty or grooming activities such as applying makeup, shaving, or tweezing. Each bulb outputs a substantial 650 lumens of light, but only uses 9 watts of energy. The bulbs have an average life span of 15,000 hours of use.
How many lumens does a 72 watt bulb have?
Each 72-watt bulb offers an impressive 1270 lumens but retains a warm, soft white glow that you'll appreciate for its lack of glare. These incandescent bulbs use halogen gas to extend the life of the filament inside, but keep in mind that they won’t be as long-lasting as an LED or CFL bulb for the bathroom.
How long do bathroom light bulbs last?
You can expect years of reliable use from this dimmable bathroom light bulb—the average lifespan is 25,000 hours of use or about 22 years.
How many watts does a 60 watt light bulb use?
Each bulb matches the light output of a 60-watt incandescent bulb, but instead only uses 9 watts of energy. These budget light bulbs are great for bathrooms since they produce 840 lumens of light. The cool daylight color (5000K) is also appreciated by those looking for a bright, clean source of light in the bedroom.
What is the difference between LED and CFL?
They put out less heat than an incandescent bulb but more heat than an LED. The bulbs break easily and may be affected by humidity. Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are known for their durability and low energy usage. They aren’t affected by humidity and put out a very low amount of heat. LEDs use a lot less electricity than CFLs or incandescent bulbs and have about half the operating cost compared to a CFL bulb.
Why do we need a bathroom light?
There are a multitude of tasks that we usually do in the bathroom and these tasks may require a different light placement. For example, applying makeup requires different lighting then taking a bath or drying your hair. Because a bathroom is rather small, you might think that you can get away with only a couple of ceiling lights. However, having the right placement of light will ensure that the entire bathroom is multi-functional.
What is the best color temperature for a bathroom?
Color temperature (in Kelvin): The best type of color temperature for a bathroom is Cool White/Bright White or Daylight. Most light bulb packages describe bulbs as Soft White (2700K-3000K), Cool White/Bright White (3500K – 4100K) and Daylight (5000K-6500K). The higher the Kelvin temperature, the whiter the light output. It’s important to remember that a “whiter” light appears brighter however, the actual brightness depends upon the Lumens.
What is the CRI of a light bulb?
Color Rendering Index (CRI): The CRI of a light bulb refers to the ability to illuminate, or show, the full range of colors in the spectrum. The CRI is rated from 0-100 with 100 being closest to natural daylight. In the bathroom, a CRI of 90-100 is best so we can accurately see the full range of colors in our skin, makeup, hair and clothing with the best color accuracy possible.
Why is it important to have good lighting in the bathroom?
Excellent lighting in the bathroom is very important: not only do we need to see ourselves and attend to bodily needs, we need to make sure that the room is well-lit for safety purposes. The best lighting design for any room is having enough light sources for the task at hand, having light coming from different directions and having the best bulbs for the room. Like the kitchen, when specific tasks need to be performed, the bathroom needs to have lighting that provides safety and functionality.
What is the best light source for a bathroom?
Windows or skylights: Having natural light in the bathroom is ideal. Not only is this the most accurate type of light with the best color rendering index, you’ll find that during the day you won’t need to turn on the lights quite as much. Skylights are another beneficial light source. Even on grey days, filtered light can create a greater sense of space within the bathroom and flood the room with light.
What kind of light do you need for a bathroom?
For some of the most common bathroom tasks, like grooming, teeth cleaning, hair and makeup, you’ll want to have excellent, white light that casts few shadows. For body care and bathing, a general ambient light usually suffices.
What is the best color temperature for a bathroom?
Best colour temperature for the bathroom. If you can budget for different types of light, we recommend a combination: Ambient lights between 2700k and 3000k: Perfect if you’re looking for a relaxing atmosphere in the bath. The light will be warmer and softer and will strain your eyes less.
Why is IP rating important?
IP ratings are incredibly important for potentially wet areas, like the bathroom. They are designed to keep the lighting protected and people safe. Martyn Allen says “The lighting in a bathroom needs to be compliant with the requirements of British Standard 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations (commonly known as the IET Wiring Regulations) – those requirements call for where lighting can be located, the type, and the ingress.”
What is the best light for mirror viewing?
Bright task lights between 3500k and 4000k: This will illuminate you well for mirror viewing. It will also help with smaller tasks like putting on make-up.
How to change the look of your face?
Just using task lights above your head can cast deep shadows below your eyes, nose and chin and change the look of your face. As well as task lighting above the mirror, you should add some ‘vanity lights’ either around the mirror or to the side of it. These can be a simple strip light or softer bulbs.
What is ambient lighting?
Ambient lighting. Acts as a fill light. Can be placed along the perimeter of the bathroom to give it a smaller, cosier feel. Mostly used to create a relaxing atmosphere—perfect if you enjoy a soothing bath.
How to get the right atmosphere in a bathroom?
To get the right atmosphere, experiment with where you place your ambient lighting—it all depends on the size of your bathroom. Discuss with your designer/electrician what options they recommend. “It’s hard to overstate the importance of lighting when it comes to creating your dream bathroom.
Can ceiling lights be used as task lights?
Ceiling lights can use task, ambient or accent lighting. It’s best to use a range of all three, to make your bathroom safe yet stylish. Your task lighting should illuminate the bathroom as brightly as possible. You can use GU10s or downlights for this.
What is IP20 2?
So a very common IP20 used for many household lights, 2 means nothing over 12mm can enter, ie fingers, and 0 no water protection. Whereas IP44 again the rating for many outdoor lights, 4 means nothing over 1mm so no wire can be poked in, and the second 4 refers to protection from splashes.
What is IP20 for outdoor lights?
So a very common IP20 used for many household lights, 2 means nothing over 12mm can enter, ie fingers, and 0 no water protection. Whereas IP44 again the rating for many outdoor lights, 4 means nothing over 1mm so no wire can be poked in, and the second 4 refers to protection from splashes. This makes IP44 a good rating for outdoor lights as well as some areas in the bathroom. So the higher the second number the better the water protection, generally they go hand in hand. ip56, ip66 etc.
What is Zone 0 in a shower?
Zone 0 - Inside a Bath or shower - only low voltage (12V) Total Immersion units.
Is IP44 good for outdoor lights?
This makes IP44 a good rating for outdoor lights as well as some areas in the bathroom. So the higher the second number the better the water protection, generally they go hand in hand. ip56, ip66 etc.
Is a ceiling light IP44?
Obviously the larger your bath or shower room the easier it is to place lights away from risk areas and this will give you a greater choice of fittings, ceiling lights can be used without an IP rating as long as they are not directly over a bath or shower, ...
Do you need task lighting in the bathroom?
Your bathroom can be a busy place, with the family all rushing to school and work, but at other times it can be a place of sanctuary so the way you light your bathroom needs to take this into account. You may consider lighting design unimportant for such a room, but the fundamentals still apply, you need task lighting, for makeup, shaving etc., and accent or decorative lighting for those times when you want to relax in the bath...
Why do people put recessed lights in showers?
In bathrooms, recessed lights are popularly used in shower stalls since they have watertight lenses. This means that they will keep working even when they get splashed with water. Most people also install these lights on the border of the bathroom ceiling in order to completely illuminate the entire space.
What is recessed lighting?
Ceiling Lights. These are more commonly known as ‘recessed lighting’ that you will find in almost all modern-day bathrooms in today’s times. Other common names for ceiling lights include can light, pot light, and downlight. These are light fixtures that are installed in the ceiling in a hollow opening.
What is a pendant light?
Also referred to as a ‘drop’ or ‘suspender’, pendant lights are light fixtures that are mounted to the ceiling. They usually hang in a suspended manner with the help of a metal rod, cord or a chain. They are so called because they hover from the ceiling the same way a pendant hangs down from a necklace.
How do track lights work?
Track lights are basically attached on a tracking device that has electrical conductors. They can be installed in various different positions or styles including lengthwise down beams or in a crosswise manner across joists. In case of high, vaulted ceilings, you can also hang or suspend them in a downward position with the help of metal rods.
What is the first place you go to after you wake up?
Your bathroom is the first place you enter right after waking up every morning. It is also the go-to hub for most women and men every time they have to get dressed for going out. Interestingly, bathrooms are often overlooked when it comes to choosing the type of lighting and light fixtures. They rank very low on the priority list compared ...
What kind of bulbs do pendant lights use?
Modern-day pendant lights often come with fluorescent bulbs or halogen bulbs, both of which help save energy and power.
How many circuits does a strip light have?
They consist of a row of lamps on a single strip light. This strip light is often wired internally to almost 3 or 4 main circuits.
What are Damp-Rated Lights?
Damp-rated lights are designed to withstand moist environments, specifically those where condensation may build up in and around the fixture. Damp-rated lights can go both outdoors and indoors. They withstand moisture but not direct contact with the elements. You’ll see them in protected outdoor environments such as roofed porches, decks, sheds and basements.
Why do you need dry rated lights in a bathroom?
Dry-rated lights typically handle low levels of moisture in bathrooms nicely because ventilation prevents the accumulation of too much condensation. In short, unless you’re wiring fixtures in close proximity to your shower, you can use dry-rated lights for most bathroom locations.
Why are wet rated lights good?
Wet-rated lights are fine with direct exposure to the elements and water because they’re completely sealed to prevent moisture from entering their wiring compartments. These fixtures are usually more than you need for indoor installations.
Do dry rated lights come in contact with water?
Dry and Wet Rated Lights are Different. Dry-rated lights don’t protect against condensation and should not come into contact with water. However, these fixtures do withstand brief exposure to moisture with proper ventilation. Wet-rated lights are fine with direct exposure to the elements and water because they’re completely sealed ...
Can you hang crystal lights in a shower?
Whether you hang crystal bathroom lights in dry locations or wet-rated recessed lighting inside the shower, these units can illuminate every corner of the room. Many of these fixtures have frosted shades or bulbs to diffuse light and prevent glare.
Can you put LED lights above a sink?
For example, you can install LED bathroom lights above a hand sink , even though many are rated for dry locations. While these fixtures illuminate a wet portion of the room, they’re not exposed to splashes of water or high levels of condensation.
How Will You Be Using Your Bathroom Lighting?
Once you know which zone and IP rating you need for your bathroom lighting, your next step is to get an idea of what you will be using it for.
What is the best zone for a shower light?
Zone 0 - this refers to lights that will be fully submerged in water, such as inside a bath or wetroom floor. You will need IP67 for these lights. Zone 1 - these will be the lights you place directly over your bath or shower. An IP67 rating is recommended.
How to use a directional spotlight?
Directional spotlights can help you accentuate different parts of the room. Avoid placing ceiling lights directly over your vanity - this will create shadows on your face. Connect your ceiling light to your extractor fan so it comes on when you have a shower. Downlights can be used over your shower, bath or in your wetroom.
What to consider when choosing a bathroom light?
The most important thing to consider when choosing your bathroom light is whether they are safe to use. Bathroom lighting does have special needs to keep in mind - of course, we all know that water and electricity are not a good mix!
What is a bathroom spotlight?
Bathroom spotlights are often also referred to as downlights. While some are fixed into the ceiling, others are mounted at an angle, so you can adjust them to complement your room. Diffusing the light in different directions like this gives a more gentle illumination, allowing you to relax easier.
What is zone 3 lighting?
This will need IP44 rated lighting. Zone 3 - anywhere outside the zones above where no jet water will be used is classed as zone 3. You don’t need any special lighting in this area of your bathroom, though IP20 minimum is recommended.
How to prevent shadows in bathroom?
Mount wall lights at eye level rather than above a mirror to prevent shadows. Low voltage is often preferred for a more flattering light level. Use a dimmer to be able to control the brightness you need. If you have a dark recess in your bathroom, add in a wall light to bring it to life. An LED bathroom mirror is a possible alternative.