Why good bathroom lighting is so important
The bathroom is a space you use every day. You use it in the morning to get ready for the day and in the evening to relax. That is why good bathroom lighting is essential.
With the right bathroom lighting, you can for example:
See clearly while shaving or applying make up
Make the bathroom look bigger
Create a relaxed atmosphere
Avoid dark corners
A bathroom with only one ceiling light often feels cold and impractical. By combining different types of bathroom lighting, you get a beautiful and functional result.
The three types of bathroom lighting
For a well lit bathroom, it is smart to use three types of bathroom lighting.
- Basic lighting
Basic lighting is the main lighting of the bathroom. This is often a ceiling light or several spotlights in the ceiling. This bathroom lighting makes sure the whole room is well lit.
Many people choose built in spotlights. These create a sleek and modern effect. They also spread the light nicely through the whole space.
- Mirror lighting
Mirror lighting may be the most important lighting. At the mirror, you want clear visibility without shadows.
The best options are:
LED lighting next to the mirror
Lighting behind the mirror
A mirror with built in lighting
This type of bathroom lighting makes sure your face is lit evenly. That is ideal for things like make up or shaving.
- Mood lighting
Besides functional lighting, mood lighting is also important. With atmospheric bathroom lighting, you make the space warmer and calmer.
Examples of mood lighting are:
LED strips under a bathroom cabinet
Lighting in a niche
Soft light near the bath
This lighting gives the bathroom a luxurious look.
LED lighting
Today, most people choose LED lighting. This has several benefits.
LED bathroom lighting:
Lasts a long time
Uses little energy
Gives clear light
Is available in different colours
You can also often dim LED lighting. This way, you can adjust the light to the time of day.
Which light colour in the bathroom?
With lighting, the colour of the light is also important. This is also called light temperature.
The three most used options are:
Warm white light, 2700K to 3000K
This light creates a warm and cosy atmosphere. Ideal for relaxation.
Neutral white light, 3500K to 4000K
This is often the best choice for bathroom lighting. The light is clear and natural.
Cool white light, 5000K or higher
This light is very bright and is used less often in bathrooms.
For mirror lighting, neutral white is usually the best choice. This helps you see colours and details clearly.
Safety with lighting
Because a bathroom is a damp space, bathroom lighting must be safe. Lights in the bathroom therefore have a special IP rating. This shows how well the light is protected against water.
For lighting, people often look at:
IP44 for general lighting
IP65 for lighting near the shower
This way, you know for sure that your lighting can be used safely.
Tips for good bathroom lighting
With a few simple tips, you can greatly improve the lighting in your bathroom.
- Combine several light sources
Use basic lighting, mirror lighting and mood lighting together. - Choose LED lighting
LED bathroom lighting is energy efficient and lasts a long time. - Make sure there is good light at the mirror
This is the place where you need the most light. - Think about atmosphere
With subtle lighting, you create a luxurious look.
Choosing the right bathroom lighting
The perfect lighting depends on the size of the bathroom, the style and how the space is used. A small bathroom often needs different bathroom lighting than a large bathroom with a bath and shower.
By combining different types of bathroom lighting, you create a space that is both practical and atmospheric.
Do you want inspiration for the right lighting or advice for your bathroom? Book an advice meeting. Our specialists are happy to think along with you about the best lighting, layout and style for your dream bathroom.
According to research, lighting plays a major role in the atmosphere of a home. Good lighting can make a space feel warmer, calmer and bigger. You can read more about this on Nieuwbouw Nederland.