The Perfect Bathroom Lighting to Create a Relaxing Atmosphere

Bathroom lighting tends to be an afterthought. When renovating, homeowners typically focus on bigger design elements like vanity cabinets and freestanding tubs. Once the project is done, they’re often left wondering why their bathroom feels clinical or gloomy after so much work. The truth is that bathroom light fixtures are just as important. So, if you’re looking to create a comfortable at-home oasis, you’re in the right place! Let’s explore some bathroom lighting ideas.

How do you light a bathroom properly?

Every room is different and needs individual bathroom lighting solutions; installing a generic grid of recessed lighting just won’t cut it. You need to consider the space, size, purpose, and aesthetic of the room before picking bathroom light fixtures.

Bathroom size

The size of the room plays an important role in your decisions. Small bathrooms will need less lighting, but you’ll need to restrict lighting types to make the most of the space you have. Large rooms have the challenge of balancing ambient and task lighting to ensure the brightness isn’t overwhelming.

Bathroom lighting with purpose

What kind of bathroom do you want to create? Think about who is going to use the space and what they need it for. For example, the makeup savvy will benefit from a well-lit vanity mirror while those that cherish shower time may want accent lighting to elevate the experience. After all, a cozy primary bathroom for you and your partner(s) will look a lot different than a bathroom shared by children in a rush to get ready for school.

Bathroom aesthetic

Regardless of the size of your bathroom or how it’s used, it still has to match your aesthetic. Before you get started, take some time to browse the latest bathroom trends to get a feel for which styles you like and how to achieve them. There are lots of bathroom lighting options to play with, from elegant bathroom chandeliers to modern hidden lighting. Feel free to mix and match to get your desired look.

That said, other elements will influence your bathroom lighting choices and associated renovation costs. For example, bright walls reflect light far more than dark walls, so you need fewer light fixtures to make the room work. With dark walls, you may need more lighting solutions.

What kind of light should I put in my bathroom?

What will make your bathroom feel best is layering your lighting properly. Do this by installing all three types of lighting, starting from largest to smallest coverage.

Ambient lighting

This is your main light source – it can be anything from a large overhead bathroom light fixture (e.g., ceiling light) to natural light coming in from your windows. Select enough bathroom light fixtures to comfortably brighten the room.

Remember that small rooms need less coverage. For example, you can get away with a single overhead lamp in a small bathroom with only a toilet and a sink. And, if you plan to use windows as your main source of lighting, be sure to still install an ambient light fixture as you’ll need it in the evening.

Task lighting

Far more focused and generally brighter than ambient bathroom lighting, task lighting allows you to complete grooming tasks like makeup application, shaving, and bathing without straining your eyes. Focus on the things you do in the bathroom and install lighting accordingly. For most, this means focusing on the vanity and shower.

Accent lighting

Accent lights highlight unique spaces or decorative elements to add a bit of style. This could be anything from hanging lights in a darker corner to cabinet underlighting that draws attention. You can also use it to brighten photo galleries, artwork, or knickknacks.

Where to install bathroom light fixtures

No one wants to be greeted by a garish reflection in the vanity mirror, much less have to squint while clipping their nails. To create a functional and aesthetic space, you need a good lighting plan. Here are some spots to consider.

Bathroom mirror and vanity lighting

With the perfect vanity being so important, proper lighting on mirrors is key. Uneven lighting casts harsh shadows and hides your true appearance. One option for bathroom vanity lights is to have a sconce on either side of the mirror at or around eye height, providing even shading on your whole face.

Bathtub and shower lighting

This type of bathroom lighting is used to emphasize the fixtures and to provide ample light while bathing. Showers tend to work better with wet area rated recessed lighting placed closer to the wall, though it depends on the shower type. Bathtubs are often paired with statement pieces to create an even more powerful look.

Toilet and water closet lighting

While less common than other lighting, these fixtures may be necessary if your toilet is in an alcove, has a separating wall (or half wall), or is in a separate room on its own. Task lighting isn’t needed for the toilet but can be used to draw attention to the area. You can also consider soft bathroom ceiling lights here.

Laundry room lighting

Laundry rooms typically have dedicated workstations like a folding area and spot for the washer and dryer, so soft lighting tends to be a good choice. Just ensure it matches the lighting in adjacent rooms to avoid harsh transitions.

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Types of bathroom light fixtures

Not all lights are made equal. To get the most out of every bathroom light fixture, you’ll need to use the best types for each location and purpose.

Pendant lights

A single light bulb hung from the ceiling with a shroud or diffuser, pendant lights illuminate the entire room nicely. With countless beautiful designs, they work in every bathroom. Just keep in mind that they take up some vertical space.

Tips

• Use a central pendant light as ambient lighting in bathrooms with tall ceilings.
• Small bathroom pendant lighting can serve as great task lights, especially around vanity mirrors.
• For a bit of whimsy, hang a pendant light with an antique bulb above your clawfoot tub.

Chandelier lights

Suspended from the ceiling and made up of many light sources, chandeliers are similar to pendant lights but tend to be more elegant and costly.

Tips

• For some glam, use a chandelier as task or ambient lighting in medium to large bathrooms. 
• Use a small or simple chandelier for small bathrooms (i.e., under 100 sq. ft.).
• Elevate your freestanding tub to a centrepiece by placing a chandelier above it.

Recessed lights

Spreading light downward and hidden above the surface of the ceiling, these lights can be used for ambient light but truly shine as shower alcove task lights.

Tips

• Pair recessed lights with sconces or chandeliers for ambient light in large bathrooms.
• Use recessed lights with a dimmer switch as task lighting in minimalist bathrooms.
• Highlight interesting architectural features by using recessed lights as accent lighting.