Here’s How to Light Up Your Bathroom with Style

Bathroom Lighting Types

Bathroom lighting falls into three categories. Ambient lighting provides general illumination. Task lighting brightens an area, typically the shower or vanity, so you can easily shave. Accent lighting draws attention to features like tile or artwork. Here are common bathroom light fixtures you can mix, match and layer to create your bathroom lightscape.

Buying Considerations

Most well-lit bathrooms have more than one light source. While smaller powder rooms and baths can make do with a single fixture, midsize and larger spaces require multiple lights to prevent unflattering shadows. Here’s what to consider when fixture shopping.

Room Size

Your bathroom size and layout will dictate your lighting needs. Large bathrooms require more illumination, as do those with nooks and alcoves (i.e. shower enclosures, water closets and vanity areas). At a minimum, expect to install ambient lighting alongside task lighting for the shower and vanity areas.

Décor Style

Light fixtures add a sparkle to your decor. Whether your style is rustic farmhouse, sleek and modern, Old World spa-inspired or anything else, consider how a light’s shape, shade and finish will complement your bathroom aesthetic.

Moisture

Consider where a fixture is going to be installed in your bathroom as that will determine what type of light you should buy. Shower enclosure lights and lights going over the bathtub must be rated for indoor/ outdoor use and be approved for a wet location. With proper room ventilation, other bathroom lights do not need to meet this standard.

Bathroom Light Bulbs

Once you have your light fixtures picked out, you’ll need light bulbs. Different bulbs cast different types of light. Here is a run-through of the most common bulbs. Want to learn more? Here’s How to Find the Right Light Bulb

LED Bulbs

These versatile energy-efficient bulbs can be warm or cool and can be used for ambient or task lighting in a variety of fixtures.

Smart LED Light Bulbs

These Bluetooth-enabled bulbs are controlled by a smartphone app: Dim them, change colours or put your lights on a schedule.

Fluorescent Light Bulbs

From compact fluorescent bulbs to old-school fluorescent tubes, these energy savers fit a variety of fixtures.

Incandescent Light Bulb

These traditional light bulbs are loved for their warm, inviting light and classic style, including vintage Edison bulbs.

Halogen Bulbs

Ultra-bright and similar to daylight, halogen bulbs are made with different shapes and bases to fit a variety of fixtures.