Bathroom Lighting Buying Guide

Choosing the perfect bathroom lighting isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, efficiency, and function.

• Follow bathroom zone rules to keep your lighting safe from water.
• Choose the right IP rating for each area (IP44 for walls, IP65+ for showers).
• Opt for LED lighting for energy savings, longevity, and smart features.
• Layer ambient, task, and accent lighting for a balanced, well-lit space.

Ever feel like your bathroom lighting is actively working against you? Maybe it’s too dim when you’re trying to shave, or so harsh it makes you question every life choice while brushing your teeth. The right lighting isn’t just about visibility—it’s about setting the mood, making your space feel bigger, and ensuring your fixtures are safe in a moisture-heavy environment. This bathroom lighting buying guide will help you get it right. 

 Click Below to Jump to a Section:

For First-Time Buyers: A Quick Overview

• Bathroom Zones & Safety Regulations
• IP Ratings Explained: Choosing the Right Waterproof Lighting
• Why LED Bathroom Lighting is the Future
• Smart LED Features: Convenience & Energy Efficiency
• Types of Bathroom Lighting
• Bathroom Lighting Styles
• A Guide To Layered Bathroom Lighting
• The Best Lighting Plan for Your Bathroom

For Savvy Shoppers: Technical Tips

• Bulb Types Explained 
• Bathroom Lighting Cost Range
• Top Bathroom Lighting Brands
• Bathroom Lighting FAQs & Final Thoughts

For First-Time Bathroom Light Buyers

A Quick Overview 

If this is your first time choosing bathroom lighting, congratulations! You’re about to make a decision that will either turn your bathroom into a spa-like retreat or an interrogation room.

From IP-rated waterproof fittings to smart lighting that listens to your voice, this expert bathroom lighting buying guide covers everything you need to transform your bathroom into a well-lit sanctuary.

Bathroom Zones: Where You Can (and Can’t) Install Lights

Bathroom zones define how close a light is to water and how much protection it needs. The closer to water, the higher the risk, meaning lights must be rated for moisture resistance.

Understanding The Bathroom Zones

• Zone 0 → Think of underwater LED strips in a whirlpool tub or inside a built-in shower niche. Any fixture in this zone must be fully waterproof (IP67+) and low voltage (max 12V).
• Zone 1 → Covers the area directly above a bath or shower up to 2.25m. If you want shower spotlights, they must be at least IP44, but IP65 is safer (especially if water jets hit them directly).
• Zone 2 → Includes the perimeter of the bath/shower and around sinks. This area gets occasional splashes, so lights here must be IP44 rated or higher. Most bathroom mirror lights, vanity sconces, and wall-mounted fixtures fall into this category.
• Zone 3 (Outside Zones) → Any lights outside these zones can be standard indoor fittings (IP20+), unless you have a wet room where the whole bathroom might be exposed to water jets—then go for IP65.

Regulation Tip: If using mains-powered lights in Zone 1, UK building regs require RCD (Residual Current Device) protection to prevent electric shocks.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure how far water can splash, always choose a higher IP rating. Safety first!

IP Ratings Explained: What Do Those Numbers Mean?

Now that we know where lights can be installed, let’s talk about IP ratings (Ingress Protection).

An IP rating tells you how well a light fixture is sealed against water and dust. It’s written as IPXX, where:

• The first number (0–6) = Protection against solid objects (dust, debris)
• The second number (0–8) = Protection against moisture (water splashes, jets, immersion)

Common IP Ratings for Bathrooms

• IP44 → Splash-proof (suitable for Zone 2 & most vanity lights).
• IP65 → Water jet-resistant (recommended for Zone 1—shower ceiling lights, downlights).
• IP67 → Fully waterproof (required for Zone 0, e.g., LED lights inside a bathtub).
• IP68 → Submersion-proof (for extreme conditions—used in pools, spas).

General Rule: The closer a light is to water, the higher the IP rating must be. If your light fitting doesn’t have an IP rating, it’s NOT suitable for bathrooms.

Bonus Safety Tips: If using water jets to clean, treat any area within jet range as Zone 1 or 2, and opt for IP65-rated lights. UK regulations require any mains-powered light in Zone 1 to be protected by an RCD (Residual Current Device, 30mA)—this reduces the risk of electric shocks.

Why LED Bathroom Lighting is the Future

Traditional halogen and incandescent bulbs are on their way out—the future is LED.

Why Are LEDs Taking Over?

Since 2021, the UK has banned the sale of halogen bulbs—so if you’re updating your bathroom, LED is your best bet.

• Energy-efficient → Uses 75% less energy than halogen bulbs.
• Long lifespan → LEDs last 20,000+ hours (up to 15 years of daily use).
• Stay cool → Unlike halogens, LEDs don’t overheat—perfect for steamy bathrooms.
• Smart home compatible → Many LEDs work with Alexa, Google Assistant, and app controls.
• Creative options → Think backlit LED mirrors, dimmable vanity lights, and RGB mood lighting.

Bathroom Lighting Styles

Modern Bathroom Lighting

Modern lighting features sleek lines, minimalist designs, and smart technology. Think chrome, matte black, and brushed brass with geometric shapes and LED integration. Many include dimmable settings, motion sensors, and colour-changing options, creating a bright, clutter-free aesthetic.

Traditional Bathroom Lighting

Traditional lighting offers timeless elegance with ornate detailing, frosted glass, and classic metals like antique brass, bronze, and pewter. Fixtures often include curved arms, decorative elements, and candle-style bulbs, pairing beautifully with panelled walls, roll-top baths, and vintage mirrors for a refined, sophisticated look.

The Three Layers of Perfect Bathroom Lighting

Now that we’ve covered zones, safety ratings, and why LEDs rule, let’s talk about how to best layer your bathroom lighting. A well-lit bathroom should have layered lighting, combining these three types:

1. Ambient Lighting (General Illumination)

• The main light source in your bathroom.
• Best options: Flush-mount ceiling lights, LED panels, recessed spotlights.
• Where to use it: Evenly spaced across the ceiling to avoid dark patches.

Pro Tip: Use dimmer switches to adjust brightness for different times of day.

2. Task Lighting (Bright, Focused Light for Grooming)

• Essential for shaving, makeup, and skincare.
• Best options: LED vanity lights, backlit mirrors, side-mounted sconces.
• Where to use it: On both sides of the mirror (NOT above—it creates shadows!).

Pro Tip: Want perfect mirror lighting? Use vertical light bars at eye level for shadow-free illumination.

3. Accent Lighting (Decorative & Mood Lighting)

• Adds drama and highlights key features.
• Best options: LED strip lights under cabinets, cove lighting, wall-wash lights.
• Where to use it: Around a freestanding tub, recessed shower niches, under vanity units.

Pro Tip: Warm LED strips under floating vanities create a hotel-luxury feel (and double as a nightlight!).

The Best Lighting Plan for Your Bathroom

• Small Bathroom? Stick to one ceiling light + LED vanity mirror for space-saving efficiency.
• Large Bathroom? Layer ambient, task, and accent lighting for a spa-like feel.
• Want a High-End Look? Use dimmable LED lighting to adjust brightness for different moods.

For Savvy Bathroom Lighting Shoppers

So, you already know the basics and want to shop smart. Here’s how to choose the best-performing and most stylish lighting for your bathroom.

Bulb Types for Bathroom Lighting

E14 Bulbs

E14 bulbs, also known as small Edison screw bulbs, are commonly found in wall sconces, vanity lights, and decorative fittings. Their compact size makes them ideal for smaller fixtures while still providing bright and efficient illumination. Available in warm, cool, and daylight tones, E14 bulbs are a versatile choice for ambient and task lighting in bathrooms.

E27 Bulbs

E27 bulbs, or standard Edison screw bulbs, are a popular choice for ceiling lights, pendant fixtures, and larger bathroom wall lights. Their wider base allows for higher wattage options, making them a great pick for those who want powerful illumination. Opt for LED E27 bulbs for improved energy efficiency and a longer lifespan.

G9 Bulbs

G9 bulbs are small, capsule-style halogen or LED bulbs typically used in modern wall lights, pendant fixtures, and decorative bathroom lighting. They offer a crisp, bright output in a compact size, making them perfect for sleek, minimalist designs. LED versions provide the same brightness as halogen but with significantly lower energy consumption.

GU10 Bulbs

GU10 bulbs are twist-and-lock spotlights, ideal for recessed ceiling lights, track lighting, and directional spotlights. They are perfect for task lighting in bathrooms, particularly around mirrors, showers, and vanity areas. LED GU10 bulbs offer adjustable colour temperatures, making them a smart choice for adaptable bathroom lighting.

LED Bulbs

LED bulbs are the gold standard for modern bathroom lighting, offering energy efficiency, long lifespans, and low heat output. They are available in various base types, including E14, E27, G9, and GU10, making them compatible with most fixtures. Many LED bulbs also come in dimmable and smart-enabled versions, giving you full control over brightness and colour.

Smart Bulbs

Smart bulbs bring customisable lighting to your bathroom, allowing you to adjust brightness, colour temperature, and even set schedules through voice commands or an app. Available in WiFi or Bluetooth-enabled models, smart bulbs can transform your bathroom lighting experience with tunable whites, RGB colour options, and motion activation.

Bathroom Lighting Cost Range

Whether you're after budget-friendly practicality or high-end luxury, bathroom lighting spans a broad price range. Here’s what to expect at different price points:

£20–£40: Budget-Friendly Bathroom Lights 

Ideal for functional, no-fuss lighting, this range includes:

• Simple downlights (IP65-rated, fire-rated models for safe use in wet zones).
• Basic wall lights with pull switches for added convenience.
• Flush ceiling lights with standard opal or frosted glass diffusers for soft, even illumination.
• Entry-level LED spotlights with fixed or adjustable heads for targeted lighting.

£40–£60: Mid-Range Bathroom Lights 

At this price point, you get better materials, designs, and lighting performance, including:

• Sleek flush fittings & pendant lights in chrome, black, brass, or brushed finishes.
• Multi-light spotlights for targeted, directional illumination.
• Stylish pull-cord and wall-mounted lighting, with glass cylinder or globe shades for an upgraded look.
• Dimmable LED technology, offering improved energy efficiency and brightness control.

£60–£100: Smart & Designer Bathroom Lights 

Stepping into this bracket means enhanced aesthetics and features, including:

• WiFi/Bluetooth-integrated smart lighting with app control and voice compatibility.
• Statement ceiling lights & chandeliers, blending modern, industrial, and art deco designs.
• Premium IP-rated wall lights with dimmable features and sophisticated finishes like brushed brass, satin nickel, and smoked glass.
• Multipacks of fire-rated LED downlights, offering a cohesive lighting setup at a good value.

£100–£300+: Luxury & Designer Bathroom Lighting

For those looking for statement lighting, premium materials, and advanced technology, this price range includes:

• Chandeliers & Statement Ceiling Lights: Perfect for luxury bathrooms, period homes, and spa-inspired spaces, featuring crystal accents, brushed brass finishes, and multi-light fittings.
• Premium Pendant & Cluster Lights: perfect for high-ceilinged or boutique-inspired spaces.
• Wall Lights & Art Deco Glamour: With opulent glass shades, polished metal finishes, and unique detailing,
• Smart & High-Tech LED Lighting: For those who love tech-integrated lighting and offer smart home compatibility with dimmable, colour-changing, and Bluetooth features.

Pricing & Availability Disclaimer: Prices and stock levels may change over time—always confirm the latest details on individual product listings. Orders over £499 (UK Mainland) may qualify for free standard delivery. Financing options may also be available for select models—check product pages for current promotions.

Top Bathroom Lighting Brands

When choosing bathroom lighting, quality and safety are just as important as style. The right brand ensures your lights are water-resistant, long-lasting, and designed for bathroom use. Here are some of the best brands for bathroom lighting:

• Forum Lighting Solutions: Forum Lighting Solutions specialises in IP-rated bathroom lighting, offering everything from shower downlights to illuminated mirrors. Their designs prioritise safety, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetics, making them ideal for contemporary bathrooms.
• Industville: If you're after a vintage, industrial look, Industville offers handcrafted lighting inspired by warehouse and factory designs. Their brass, pewter, and copper finishes bring a timeless, character-filled feel to bathrooms, pairing beautifully with heritage fixtures.
• Revive Lighting: Revive Lighting focuses on modern, energy-efficient LED solutions. Whether it’s a sleek illuminated mirror, smart LED strip lighting, or minimalist ceiling spots, Revive offers contemporary designs that enhance functionality and style.
• Searchlight Lighting: With a wide range of bathroom lighting styles, Searchlight Lighting caters to every taste and layout. From chic wall lights and statement pendants to classic vanity lighting, they offer high-quality fittings that balance style and practicality.
• Burlington Bathrooms: For heritage-style bathrooms, Burlington offers elegant wall sconces and classic vanity lights inspired by Victorian and Edwardian designs. Perfect for period interiors, their lighting complements traditional fixtures and furniture with a refined touch.

Brands Disclaimer: Availability varies. Verify stock on product pages or contact customer service before purchasing.

FAQs: Bathroom Lighting Questions Answered

Can I install a light above my shower?

Yes, but it must be IP44 minimum (IP65 recommended). Shower ceiling lights should be sealed, waterproof LED downlights designed for Zone 1 installation.

What’s the best lighting for a bathroom mirror?

For shadow-free lighting, use side-mounted LED sconces or a backlit mirror. Avoid overhead lighting—it creates harsh shadows. Opt for cool white (4000K–5000K) LEDs for the best grooming visibility.

What’s the difference between warm white and cool white lighting?

• Warm White (2700K–3000K) → Creates a cosy, relaxing atmosphere.
• Cool White (4000K–5000K) → Provides bright, clear light—ideal for shaving/makeup.
  For the best of both, use tunable white LEDs that adjust colour temperature.

Light Your Bathroom the Right Way

Need more bathroom inspiration? Check out our DIY guides, design blogs, and expert buying guides to help you plan the perfect space.

And if this helped, share it with someone planning a bathroom upgrade!