Are you thinking about getting new bathroom lighting, but aren’t sure which type of lighting to choose?
The right lighting can make all of the difference in your bathroom. However, choosing the right lighting fixtures can be difficult, as there are a lot of different factors to consider.
If you’re not sure which direction to take, check out this guide to discover how to choose the best bathroom lighting.
Add in Layers of Light
When planning out your bathroom lighting scheme, you want to add in layers of light. Ideally, you want three layers to beautify your space.
This makes it so the light distributes evenly. To add in layers of light, add in a layer of ambient light in the form of pendants, chandeliers, and flush mounts. The second layer should consist of task lighting that you’ll use for grooming activities like shaving, plucking your eyebrows, or applying makeup.
The third layer should be composed of accent lighting. The purpose of accent lighting is to highlight the colors and architectural features of the bathroom.
Maximize Natural Light
The most in vogue type of light you can add to your bathroom is natural light. To allow more natural light into your bathroom, take a look at your window treatments. You’ll want to choose a type of window that allows a lot of light to pour in. And, don’t worry about privacy, as you can always place a window film on the window to ensure that your neighbors can’t see inside.
If you’re renovating your home or building a new one, then it’s best to position your bathroom facing north. This way, indirect sunlight will hit your bathroom, creating a soft, diffused ambiance.
Choose the Right Bulbs
No matter how fancy your bathroom lighting is, the wrong bulbs can totally ruin the atmosphere of your bathroom. Opt for bulbs with 2700k LEDs, which is the warmest light possible.
A dim light is both calming and romantic, so the right bulbs can make all the difference.
Understand the Different Lighting Options
To choose the right lighting for your bathroom, you also need to understand the different types of lighting fixtures. Here’s what you have to choose from:
Wall Sconces
Wall sconces are mounted onto your wall. They use the wall for support instead of a supporting base on the ground. This type of lighting dates all the way back to pre-modern times, so it can give a traditional look to your bathroom.
However, you can also find wall sconces in many modern designs. Typically, it’s best to place wall sconces on either side of your mirror. This way, you’ll have some extra lighting when getting ready.
If your mirror is centered above your sink, place your wall sconces a few inches to the left and right side of the mirror. Ideally, you want the sconces as close to your face as possible.
While there are a variety of wall sconces to choose from, the most popular type of called a flush-mounted wall washer. This type of sconce is small and compact and forms a half-moon shape. It’ll wash your entire bathroom wall with light and create a unique design element.
Ceiling Lights
Commonly referred to as recessed lights, you can find ceiling lights in nearly every modern bathroom. This type of fixture is installed in the ceiling through a hollow opening.
Ceiling lights are a very versatile option for your bathroom, and they provide some nice ambient lighting. They’re also great for highlighting artwork and other decor items, so if you have some decorations you’d like to show off in your bathroom, you’ll definitely want to consider ceiling lighting.
Mirror Lights
Mirror lights also make a great addition to bathrooms. You can either install this type of lighting fixture, or you can buy a bathroom mirror with lights already built-in.
Mirror lights give your bathroom an instant facelift, and they make your space appear bigger, brighter, and overall more attractive.
Track Lights
Track lights are either mounted to the ceiling or wall, and they’re composed of individual light fixtures in a continuous series. The reason they’re called tracking lights is that they’re attached to a tracking device with electrical conductors.
They can be installed in various positions throughout your bathroom, making them a very versatile lighting option.
Vanity Lights
The bathroom vanity is often the most overlooked spot when it comes to light installation. Because grooming requires a well-lit area, you need to be very careful when selecting vanity lights.
To achieve the most functional bathroom lighting, you’ll want to opt for vanity fixtures with a semi-opaque shade. This way, the light can gently travel forward.
Chandelier
When most people think of chandeliers, they think of dining room lighting. However, chandeliers also make a great addition to your bathroom space.
Chandeliers are suspended light fixtures that hang down from the ceiling. You can choose from classic, contemporary, and modern chandeliers. If your bathroom is sleek and classy, then a modern chandelier is a great choice. If your bathroom has a minimalist look, then you should opt for a contemporary chandelier.
Classic chandeliers are best for luxury and traditional-style bathrooms.
Pendant Lights
Like chandeliers, pendant lights also hang from the ceiling. They’re usually attached to a cord, chain, or metal rod. The most common type of pendant in modern households consists of a single bulb enclosed by a globe-shaped cover.
Pendant lights are an excellent option for those wanting to add more ambient lighting to their bathroom.
Are You Ready for New Bathroom Lighting?
Now that you’ve read this guide, you should have an easier time choosing bathroom lighting. Before you know it, your bathroom will be outfitted with some amazing new light fixtures.
Be sure to check back in with our blog for more home decor tips and tricks.
