Quick answer: The best bathroom lighting is evenly distributed across three layers, uses fixtures whose finishes match your other accessories, suits your style, delivers the right warm or cool light quality, and is rated for wet conditions—especially near a shower or tub.
Bathroom lighting is important for a number of reasons. A bathroom needs to be well-lit due to its many uses, and it also needs to fit the theme or style present in the rest of your bathroom. Here are some tips for choosing bathroom lighting.
Why does light saturation matter in a bathroom?
Since bathrooms are used for a variety of purposes—some painstakingly detail-oriented—light distribution matters more here than in other rooms. We've all dealt with the frustration of inadequate lighting when putting on makeup, shaving, and other activities. As you browse online or in the store, check the direction and power your favorite fixtures will provide. According to Forbes, "any bathroom can benefit from three layers of light." Just be sure the light is distributed evenly for a more pleasing experience.
Should bathroom lighting finishes match your accessories?
Your bathroom lighting and accessories—TP holders, faucets, and so on—typically look best when all the finishes match. It isn't strictly necessary, but most people opt to match the finishes of all bathroom accessories to create a unified look. This one is easy to overlook, and its impact only gets more irritating if you didn't notice it when you picked out those matte outlet covers, shiny stainless steel lights, and polished brass faucets.
What bathroom lighting styles are available?
Lighting comes in a variety of styles and designs. Bath bars are popular with those wanting a contemporary look. Bath strips—often called vanity or Hollywood lights for their popularity in dressing-room sets—create a glamorous, vintage feel. Ceiling lights and chandeliers are statement pieces in a bathroom of any size.
Why does the quality of light matter?
Many people don't think about the quality of light a fixture or bulb gives off until they start shopping. Here's a good example: when you're driving at night and pass a car without halogen or bright LED headlights, you often don't think about the lights—but pass one car with big halogen bulbs and you're likely cursing their brightness. The same is true in the bathroom. A warm white light creates a different ambiance and functionality than a cool white or daylight fixture or bulb.
Do bathroom light fixtures need a moisture rating?
A bathroom is the only place in your house that is supposed to be wet, damp, or moisture-saturated at any given time—and everyone knows moisture and electricity don't mix. Once you've narrowed your search based on style, size, light quality, and other factors, make sure the fixtures are rated for wet conditions. This is especially true for any lighting above or very near your shower or bathtub.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many layers of light should a bathroom have?
Any bathroom can benefit from three layers of light. The key is to distribute it evenly so detail tasks like shaving and applying makeup are well lit.
Do my bathroom light finishes need to match my faucets?
It isn't required, but most people match the finishes of lighting and accessories—faucets, TP holders, and outlet covers—to create a unified look and avoid a mismatched appearance.
What lighting is safe near a shower or tub?
Choose fixtures rated for wet conditions for any lighting above or very near a shower or bathtub, since moisture and electricity don't mix.
