Bathroom Lighting: A Guide

When it comes to a bathroom remodel, lighting is probably the last thing on your mind. Whether you’re remodeling an existing bathroom or building one from the ground up, natural light is at a premium. If natural light is minimal or non-existent, you’ll want lighting that suits your style, budget, and bathroom space. Poorly planned lighting can produce unwanted shadows, glare, and create an unpleasant ambiance. Explore these bathroom lighting ideas to create a welcoming, well-lit, and functional space.

Choose a Style

Decide on a preferred style of lighting. If you’re matching lighting to the theme of your home, choose contemporary or traditional elements. Classic wall sconces work in any style bathroom and are available in both contemporary and traditional versions. If you’re unsure, a transitional style strikes a balance between traditional and contemporary.

Use Daylight as Model

The true color of our face, clothing, hair, and makeup is best represented in daylight. Aim to mimic daylight in your bathroom by using fixtures with white shades and bulbs that render colors accurately. Incandescent bulbs, LEDs, or compact fluorescent bulbs with a CRI of 90 or above work well. For guidance on choosing the right bulb, consult a lighting professional.

Consider Dimmers

Dimmer switches give you control over lighting and mood. Relax in the tub with minimal lighting or apply makeup with bright light by using dimmers. Benefits include energy savings and longer bulb life. Modern dimmers work for most types of bulbs, but verify compatibility before installation.

Pay Attention to Safety

Safety is critical in bathrooms due to the combination of electricity and water. Consult a certified electrician for any lighting project. The National Electric Code requires fixtures near the tub or shower to be “wet” or “shower-location” rated. A licensed electrician ensures your bathroom lighting meets all standards.

Ambient vs. Task vs. Accent Lighting

Bathrooms typically include three types of lighting:

• Ambient: Illuminates the entire bathroom with light directed toward the floor.
• Task: Provides clear, shadow-free lighting for tasks like shaving or applying makeup.
• Accent: Draws attention to specific areas or decorative features.

When planning your lighting, incorporate all three types for a functional and visually pleasing bathroom.