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Bathshack's Bathroom Lighting Guide

Are you planning on revamping your bathroom? When you have your mind focused on purchasing new bathroom fixtures it is easy to overlook lighting. However, lighting your bathroom well is imperative.  Read on for tips on how you can make the most out of your bathroom lighting.

Planning your bathroom lighting

As you plan how to light your bathroom, consider its the shape and size. Often bathrooms are the smallest room in the house, but this doesn’t have to limit your options. Different types of lighting can be layered together (Don’t worry we go into this in more detail further on) to create harmonious lighting schemes in quite compact spaces.

You will also need to consider your existing lighting. Do you have a window which grants you If so, how does it balance with the artificial light? If you don’t have any natural light, your lighting scheme will be solely responsible for illuminating this important room, so be sure that it works for all uses.

How to choose bathroom lighting

There are several functions that lighting can offer:

Ambient lighting:

Ambient lighting is your base light which should illuminate overall space and lets you move about safely.

Accent lighting:

Accent lighting highlights particular areas of your bathroom.

Task lighting:

Task lighting is more concentrated lights which will illuminate areas need when shaving, applying makeup, etc.

What type of lighting is the best for bathrooms?

In bathrooms, we recommend LEDs for their durability and longevity. You can use CFLs which are a common energy saving bulb but they tend to offer poorer performance in moist environments and have a shorter lifespan when turned on and off frequently.

Bathroom lighting ideas

Recessed downlights

 

Bathroom downlights are becoming more and more popular as they are a subtle yet effective way to illuminate a bathroom. These lights are built into the ceiling and lie flush against so they will not dominate space or demand too much attention. This form of lighting is very versatile and is ideal for creating both task and accent lighting. We recommend the LED satin chrome bathroom ceiling downlighter to illuminate your bathroom.  They are flexible, easy to install and are suitable for use over shower enclosures.  Additionally, their compact sizing offers a sleek, minimalistic look whilst ensuring that you have plenty of light shining down from above.

Ceiling lights

 

Flush and semi-flush fitting ceiling lights should be strong contenders for your bathroom lighting scheme. With these types there is little space or no space between the light fixing and the ceiling so the full height of the room is used. This makes them a great option for low ceilings and compact bathrooms. This type of light fitting is available in modern and traditional look. If you’re searching for something decorative, try to look out for eye-catching, crystal-cut glass designs such as the Forum Cygnus Light Ceiling Fitting  or the Forum Crux Bathroom Ceiling Fitting  which are certain to add a splash of luxury to your bathroom.

Wall lights

 

Wall lighting should be primarily used as a way to compliment your ceiling lights. Wall lights can be both decorative and functional. For example, the can be used to create a mixture of ambient and task lighting. Being within easier reach than ceiling and downlights, their light bulbs can be easier to replace. Choose between single and double lights in an array of modern and traditional designs. You can also look at more creative options such as the Insignia Starlight LED Board which provides an atmospheric glow in any bathroom.

Candles and lanterns

This suggestion should be executed with caution. When you place candles, ensure that you do not place them near any flammable materials. With that said, introducing candles can in your bathroom lift the overall atmosphere of your space. You can add some scented candles to the room and easily switch the scent according to your mood. Place your candles inside an attractive lantern or a statement candle holder for a safe option that still looks good. If you are concerned about using candle in your bathroom, consider flame-less LED candles for an affect that is very safe but just as effective.

Spa bath with LED lighting

For a luxurious experience, you can combine a whirlpool bath that features colour-changing chromotherapy lighting. These lights don’t just look cool, it is said that these lights can lift a person's mood. These lights combine with the powerful jets to create for a relaxing bathing experience.

Bathroom lighting and mirrors

Mirror lighting

 

Illuminated mirrors combine two-bathroom essentials together. These mirrors are either equipped with integrated lights or attached lamps for extra task lighting. At Bathshack, many of our illuminated mirrors come with a de-mist function to ensure that the area is well lit and fog free. As well as coming with lighting, many illuminated mirrors come with a cabinet giving you additional storage which is useful if you are low on space. We love the Eliseo Ricci Tiana LED Mirror for its contemporary look and various features including a shaver socket and is touch sensitivity.

Bathroom lighting do's and don'ts

Do

Keep in mind zones and IP ratings

Steam and moisture is present in bathrooms and any light fittings need to be water-resistant in order to be safe.

There are two ways you can check the suitability of lighting for your bathroom:

Bathroom zones and IP ratings

The IET wiring regulations divide a bathroom into hazard zones. These zones symbolise the distance from waters sources and highlight where lighting is safe to install. For instance, a light that is over a basin unit will be exposed to more water than a light much further away from it, and so requires lighting with greater resistance to water.

The ratings are given as the initials IP and then two digits. The first digit refers to the protection level against solid objects. The second digit represents a lights resistance to water. The higher this number is, the greater the resistance.

Do

Combine task and ambient lighting

Combine the two to create a lighting scheme that fits with your needs. You may need to have more functional lighting for everyday tasks, but there is nothing wrong with incorporating ambient lighting for the time you get to yourself.  You will find a balance by layering lighting and discovering what works best for you.

Don’t

Install lighting without thought

For example, don’t place lighting so that it reflects off the mirror. Harsh glare can be very annoying when you’re getting ready to take on the day. Think about where your lighting will look the best in your bathroom and provide the best results.

Don’t

Don't ignore the importance of lightbulbs

Avoid anything too fluorescent so that you don’t damage your eyes late at night or early in the morning.   Experiment with dimmers so you have full control over the intensity of the light.

We hope you have enjoyed today’s blog post and found our bathroom lighting tips useful. For more bathroom related tips view our blog.