lighting a bathroom - information about how to light a bathroom.

Bathrooms should look light and fresh and be lit for the practical tasks of washing and shaving, but also for times when you may want to relax with candle light and bubbles.

Natural light in a bathroom is ideal, but not always available. If it is, you can make the most of it using frosted, etched or coloured glass to diffuse the light and create patterns. A skylight is fantastic as it allows masses of light to flood in.

Due to the regulations governing the use of electricity in bathrooms, you should avoid freestanding, hanging or adjustable light fittings. Recessed lights and sealed units are the safest options.

Apart from the area around the sink and mirror, bathroom lighting doesn’t need to be that strong. Downlights and recessed wall lights can provide a good level of background illumination. You should frame a mirror to create even light, without casting shadows.

For something a bit different, you could try placing lights underwater in your bath and for added ambience when you want to relax, candles placed around the bath provide a nice glow.

Under regulations, your bathroom lights should be controlled by either a pull cord inside the bathroom or a normal switch positioned outside. A dimmer switch will give you greater control. It’s possible to get a cord dimmer to place inside the bathroom.

Before making a final decision on what lights to install in your bathroom, you must ensure that they comply with regulations and have an appropriate IP rating. You must also consult the regulations on where lights can safely be positioned. See our information section on regulations for more details and ultimately check with a qualified electrician.

please also see our information page about bathroom zone information.

---