A place of tranquility and relaxation, the bathroom is probably one of the most used rooms of the house. Lighting plays an integral part in a bathroom. It's important to get right for those times that task lighting is required, and for those evenings where relaxation is key.

We've put together a bathroom lighting guide that will help to enhance the way that you use your space.

Task Lighting

Task lighting in a bathroom will help you to complete those everyday necessities like shaving and applying makeup with ease. Dedicated task lighting provides increased light for specific tasks, in their required area.

This can be achieved in a bathroom by using recessed downlights, cabinet lights and mirror lights.

Recessed downlights are a great choice as they blend into most interior decor. They're also easy to install into those tiny nooks where otherwise it would be difficult to install substantial lighting for the task at hand.

If they're being fitted away from the shower and bath, such as by the sink, you will need downlights with an IP rating of 44 and above. Take a look at our blog on IP rated downlights for more information on bathroom zones.

Wall Lights

If you're looking for a more decorative finish, wall lights will help you to achieve the desired look. Wall lights are perfect for hanging at eye level in a bathroom. They can be used as a stand alone light fitting or used to layer lighting.

Layering lighting works well for adding depth to a room and additional lighting to the areas that need it most. Wall lights work will in conjunction with downlights and ceiling lights.

Set The Mood With A Dimmer Switch

The perfect lighting setup for a bathroom is one that takes you through the day and can be adapted as necessary. A dimmer switch will allow you to increase and decrease the brightness as required.

A dimmer switch is the perfect way to create mood lighting for a relaxing setting. When you're having a soak in the bath, dim the lighting to help you relax and unwind.

Our dimmer switches are available in a number of different finishes to suit your decor.

Choose The Right Colour Temperature

Another important consideration to make is the colour temperature of the bulbs you are using in your lighting setup. This is particularly important if you have a bathroom with no natural lighting.

IP Ratings

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system is crucial for ensuring that bathroom lighting is safe for use in areas where it may come into contact with moisture or water. Here's a breakdown of how the IP rating system is structured:

IP Rating Breakdown:

IP: Stands for "Ingress Protection". The first digit indicates protection against solid objects (like dust or dirt). The second digit indicates protection against liquids (like water).

Common Bathroom Zones:

• Zone 0: Inside the bath or shower.
  Requires IP65 or higher.
  
• Zone 1: Above the bath or shower up to a height of 2.25m.
  Requires IP44 or higher.
  
• Zone 2: The area around the bath or shower extending 60cm outside.
  Requires IP44 or higher.
  
• Zone 3: Further than 60cm from the bath or shower, where lighting might still encounter occasional water splashes.
  IP20 is sufficient, but IP44 is recommended.

Shaver sockets

Now you've decided on your lighting setup, don't forget about the final details. Matching your shaver sockets with other details in your room such as downlights or wall lights will really help to pull the room together.

Our shaver sockets are available in a number of different finishes. Our newest Fusion range combines up to 3 different metals. This range is ideal for those who feature a number of different metals in their home such as white metal and polished chrome.

A bathroom lighting plan will help you to utilise the space and enhance if for the activities that need it.