Bathroom Lighting Ideas

Lighting is one of the most important elements in any room. In the bathroom adequate lighting is particularly important because it can help you distinguish bright pink lipstick from cherry red, make you less likely to cut yourself shaving, or keep you from slipping and taking a tumble.

Proper bathroom lighting is important for safety reasons but it can also dramatically improve the look of the room, adding sparkle to fixtures, fittings, and countertops.

Bathroom Lighting Ideas and Tips

• Be sure to include proper task lighting around the vanity for grooming. The best way is to install sconces or vertical fixtures on either side of the above-vanity mirror. If space won’t allow it, install lights at the top of the mirror. Putting recessed lighting in the ceiling pointing down to the area isn’t a great idea because it will cast shadows on the face.
• The shower is also an area that requires some task lighting. Make sure there is sufficient recessed lighting focused on the area. For safety’s sake be sure to use enclosed vaporproof fixtures in shower enclosures.
• An overhead fixture can work as a “fill-in” light for the rest of the bathroom. Try to think outside the box and consider venturing away from traditional overhead lights. Depending on the style of your room consider using a pretty crystal chandelier or contemporary pendant lamp.
• Don’t forget about decorative lighting. A beautiful pair of sconces (or a single sconce) can add character as well as light. They’re practical and they can make great decorative accessories.
  If you have built-in shelves or some type of cabinet system consider installing lights inside of them. It will highlight the items displayed within.

Bulbs and Dimmers

When shopping for bulbs be sure to get ones that give off a crisp white light. Avoid anything that will cast a yellowish glow.

Install dimmer switches on all of the lights (this goes for every room in the house). It gives you complete control over the lighting and can save you money.

Extra Tips for Maximizing Light in the Bathroom

Aside from the lights themselves there are a few other things you can do to help maximize the amount of light you get in the bathroom.

• Don’t use dark colors
• Use large mirrors to reflect light
• Avoid excess clutter
• Use glass containers to display items

Safety Considerations

The bathroom is the most dangerous room in the house when it comes to electrical considerations. Always consult a professional electrician before taking on any lighting project (even if it seems simple). There are certain codes and important safety rules that must be followed and if not done properly the results can be very dangerous.