Top 10 Tips For Bathroom Lighting

I recently got to revamp a bathroom and thought, why not share everything I learned about bathroom lighting with you? I know how tricky it can be to get it right. I’ve been there, standing in a dim bathroom trying to do my daily grooming, or blinded by a ceiling light so harsh it feels like I’m under a spotlight. It’s not fun.

That’s why I’m writing this – to help you avoid the same mistakes I made. The bathroom is where you start and end your day, and the lighting should feel like an extension of the comfort and functionality of your home. I’m not talking about expensive, over-the-top renovations either. You can do so much with small, affordable changes.

bathroom lighting

I’m going to give you my top 10 tips for bathroom lighting, but it’s not just about adding lights; it’s about creating a space that works for you – whether you’re waking up groggy-eyed on a Monday morning or winding down with a glass of wine and a bath on a Friday night. And the best part? You can totally handle these tips yourself without hiring an electrician or gutting your bathroom.

So, let’s dive in.

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Tip #1: Layer your lighting

I can’t stress this enough – lighting in the bathroom is all about layers. Think of it like putting together an outfit: you wouldn’t wear just one piece of clothing, right? The same goes for lights. You need a mix of ambient lighting to illuminate the whole room, task lighting for specific areas (like your vanity), and accent lighting to add that bit of “oomph.” In my own bathroom, I combined a small chandelier for a soft overhead glow, sconces by the mirror for precision, and LED strips under the vanity for a sleek, modern touch.

Tip #2: Avoid overhead shadows

Here’s a mistake I made early on: relying on one overhead light for everything. It’s so tempting, especially in smaller bathrooms, but trust me – it does no favors. All you get are weird shadows that make you look like you haven’t slept in days. Instead, go for sconces or lights that sit at eye level on either side of your mirror. This way, you get even, flattering light across your face when you’re doing your makeup or shaving. Plus, it looks way more stylish.

Tip #3: Add dimmers for flexibility

One thing I’ve come to appreciate – dimmers. They completely change the vibe of a room. In the morning, you want that bright, energizing light to help you wake up, but when you’re winding down at night, you don’t want something so intense. Installing dimmers lets you set the mood, whether it’s bright and functional or soft and cozy. Honestly, it’s a small change, but one that makes a massive difference in how you feel in the space. I even added one to my chandelier above the bathtub, and now my bathroom feels like a little spa.

Tip #4: Choose the right color temperature

Color temperature might sound like a small thing, but it’s crucial. I’ve tested different bulbs, and here’s the scoop: for your vanity or task lighting, stick to a cooler white, something in the 3000K to 4000K range. This gives you the clarity you need without being too harsh. For ambient lighting, like ceiling lights or your chandelier, go warmer. A 2700K to 3000K bulb creates a softer, more inviting light – ideal for when you want to relax. Think of it like this: cooler light helps you get things done, while warmer light helps you unwind.

Tip #5: Highlight architectural features

Got a gorgeous tile wall? Maybe a freestanding tub that you love? Then why not show it off with lighting? This was a game-changer for me. I added a small uplight behind my tub, and it made the whole area feel way more luxurious. You can use LED strips under a floating vanity or recessed lights to bring attention to certain areas. It adds depth and dimension to the space, making your bathroom look professionally designed, even if you did it yourself.

Tip #6: Maximize natural light

If you’re lucky enough to have windows in your bathroom, use them! Natural light is the best kind, and it makes any bathroom feel brighter and more open. In my own bathroom, I hung a mirror opposite the window to bounce as much light as possible around the room. If you can, avoid putting heavy curtains or blinds over your windows – go for sheer shades or frosted glass to let the light in while still maintaining your privacy.

Tip #7: Always think about safety

One thing that often gets overlooked in bathroom lighting is safety. I’m all for aesthetics, but the bathroom is a wet environment, so you need to make sure your lights are rated for damp or wet locations. This is especially true if you’re installing lights near your shower or over the tub. Trust me, this is not an area you want to skimp on.

Tip #8: Make a statement

Lighting isn’t just functional – it’s an opportunity to make a statement. I mean, why shouldn’t your bathroom have a little glam? One of the best things I did was install a small chandelier over my bathtub. It’s elegant, yes, but it also ties the whole room together. Don’t be afraid to go bold with a fixture that stands out. Whether it’s a chandelier, a pendant light, or even a funky sconce, make it a piece you love.

Tip #9: Scale matters

This one is simple but important: don’t forget about scale. A huge light in a small bathroom is going to feel out of place, just like a tiny light in a large bathroom will get lost. Think about the proportions of your space when choosing your fixtures. I made this mistake once – installing an oversized pendant in a small powder room – and it looked like it belonged in a completely different house. Measure your space, and make sure the fixture feels balanced within it.

Tip #10: Don’t neglect the mirror

Here’s the thing – your mirror is probably where you spend the most time in the bathroom, so the lighting around it is critical. If you have harsh shadows or dim lighting, it can make everyday tasks like putting on makeup a real struggle. I recommend side-mounted sconces for the best, most even light. And if you’ve got a larger mirror, go for two on either side. The goal is to see yourself clearly but in the most flattering light possible. After all, good lighting can make all the difference.

Wrapping up

There you have it – my top 10 tips for bathroom lighting. Hopefully, these ideas will help you create a bathroom that not only looks beautiful but also works beautifully for you. Whether it’s installing a stunning chandelier, layering lights, or just adding dimmers, it’s all about making the space feel as good as it looks. And trust me, once you get your bathroom lighting right, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

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