Top 10 Common Bathroom Lighting Mistakes and How to Fix Them
17th Jun 2025
There are a variety of bathroom lighting mistakes that are frequently made. These are simple to overlook, but are important to rectify. That's why we're here to let you know the mistakes to avoid and bathroom lighting tips to fix these common mistakes!
Ignoring IP Ratings
In terms of safety, this is the most important of these common bathroom lighting mistakes. Many people have a vanity mirror, with surrounding lightbulbs, close to their running water from the shower. Unfortunately, if they have been implemented without considering IP rating, this can lead to safety issues. As anyone can tell you, water and electricity don't mix. It's important to consider the location of lights and if they are within any of the "Bathroom Zones": 0,1 or 2.
How to Fix It:
First consider if the lighting would be within the three zones and then get an IP rated lighting appropriate for the zone:
- Zone 0 is in the bathtub or shower basin and would require an IPX7 rating.
- Zone 1 is inside the shower or directly above the bath (to a height of 2.25 metres) and would require a minimum IPX4. If it would be cleaned by a focused washer you need a minimum of IPX5.
- Zone 2 sits either side of Zone 1 sitting 0.6 metres away from the bath or shower and a height of 2.25m if directly above. This again requires IPX4, unless it will be jet washed where you need IPX5.
IP rated lighting help keep you safe when they are installed near water.
Not Considering Task Lighting
Task lighting is crucial in areas where you carry out specific activities, such as shaving or applying makeup. This is the first of the most common bathroom lighting mistakes. Many people rely solely on overhead lighting, which can cast shadows and make these tasks difficult. Without adequate task lighting, you might find yourself straining your eyes or making grooming mistakes due to poor visibility. This can lead to frustration and even impact your confidence as you begin your day.
How to Fix It:
Install wall-mounted lights or sconces at eye level on either side of your mirror. This setup provides even lighting across your face, reducing shadows and improving visibility. Consider adjustable fixtures that allow you to direct the light where it's needed most, offering flexibility for various tasks. Dimmable bulbs can further enhance their functionality. Tailor the brightness to your preference in an instant.
Insufficient Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting is the base layer of light in your bathroom.
Without it, the space can feel dim and uninviting, affecting your overall experience and mood. Ambient lighting helps with navigating a space safely. Especially at night, when using task lighting may be too harsh.
How to Fix It:
Incorporate a mix of overhead fixtures, like flush mounts or chandeliers, to provide adequate ambient lighting. Ensure the fixtures are properly sized for your bathroom to avoid overpowering the space. Consider the use of frosted glass or diffusers to soften the light and eliminate harsh shadows. Dimmable ambient lighting allows for greater control. You can adapt the light level to the time of day and activity you're doing.
Ignoring Accent Lighting
Accent lighting adds depth and character to your bathroom by highlighting architectural features or décor.
Without it, your bathroom might lack dimension and visual interest, appearing flat and uninspiring. Accent lighting expertly highlights design elements. This could be architectural features, tile work, art or more, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your space.
How to Fix It:
Use LED strips under cupboards or around mirrors to accentuate design elements. They can create a luxurious feel and add a touch of sophistication to your bathroom. Consider using accent lighting to draw attention to artwork or unique architectural details, creating focal points that elevate the room's design. Moreover, strategically placed accent lights can enhance safety by illuminating pathways and reducing the risk of accidents.
Overlooking Dimmers
Another of the most common bathroom lighting mistakes is not considering dimmable lighting. Bright, harsh lighting may be perfect for getting ready in the morning, but it's not ideal for a relaxing bath. Without dimmers, you lose control over light intensity. This can impact the mood and usability of the space. Without dimmer switches, this leads to increased energy consumption. This is due to lights being left at full brightness unnecessarily.
How to Fix It:
Add dimmer switches to your bathroom lighting. They allow you to adjust the brightness to suit different activities, enhancing both functionality and atmosphere. Dimmers can effectively transition bright task lighting into softer ambient lighting. Perfect for brushing your teeth before bed. Moreover, by reducing the light output when full brightness isn't needed, dimmers can contribute to energy savings over time.
Choosing the Wrong Bulb Type
Not all bulbs are created equal and in terms of bathroom lighting mistakes, people frequently go for the first one that fits.
Opting for the wrong type can affect both the mood and utility of your bathroom lighting. Some bulbs may produce a harsh, clinical light, while others might not be bright enough, leaving your bathroom dim and unwelcoming. Furthermore, the wrong bulb type can lead to higher energy costs and frequent replacements, adding to your maintenance expenses.
How to Fix It:
Use LED bulbs for energy efficiency and longevity. Select a colour temperature around 2700K to 3000K for a warm, inviting glow. This range mimics natural light, ideal for grooming tasks. Ensuring your bulbs have a high CRI ensures colours are accurately reflected. This ensures a more functional bathroom as well as a visually appealing one. Opting for dimmable LED bulbs can further enhance the versatility of your bathroom lighting.
Poor Mirror Lighting
A frequently overlooked of the bathroom lighting mistakes is around mirror lighting. Lighting around the mirror is essential for tasks like shaving or make-up application. Poorly placed lighting can result in unflattering shadows, making it difficult to achieve a polished look.
Inadequate mirror lighting can also lead to uneven illumination, causing eye strain and making grooming tasks more challenging.
How to Fix It:
Place lights on either side of the mirror at about eye level, or opt for a mirror with built-in lighting. This arrangement ensures even illumination, minimising shadows on your face. Consider using fixtures with adjustable arms for flexibility in directing light exactly where you need it.
Forgetting About Colour Rendering Index (CRI)
The CRI measures how accurately a light source reveals the true colours of objects. You can appear washed out if lighting has a low CRI. This is due to low CRI lights not showing colours correctly. This can detrimentally impact tasks like makeup application or grooming
Poor colour rendering can also detract from the overall aesthetic of your bathroom, making it less inviting.
How to Fix It:
Choose bulbs with a CRI of 90 or above. High CRI lighting provides a true-to-life colour representation, enhancing the overall appearance of your bathroom. This ensures that colours appear vibrant and natural, improving the accuracy of tasks like applying makeup or choosing outfits. High CRI lighting enhances the appeal of decorative elements, creating a more attractive space.
Inadequate Shower Lighting
Shower areas often get overlooked in lighting plans, leading to dark and potentially unsafe spaces. Poor lighting in the shower can increase the risk of slips and falls, while also making it difficult to see and access toiletries. A well-lit shower enhances safety and comfort. It makes the shower more functional whilst ensuring it is usable even late at night.
How to Fix It:
Install waterproof recessed lighting in the ceiling of your shower. This setup provides ample light without compromising safety. Ensure you use recessed lighting within your bathroom. This provides good quality lighting without compromising on safety. Additionally, positioning lights strategically can enhance visibility in all areas of the shower, ensuring you can safely and efficiently complete your shower routine.
Ignoring Energy Efficiency
One of the most costly out of our bathroom lighting mistakes is due to energy efficiency. Bathroom lighting is often left on for extended periods, leading to higher energy consumption. Ignoring energy efficiency can result in increased electricity bills and a larger carbon footprint, impacting both your wallet and the environment. Ignoring energy efficiency can result in a much larger energy bill. This impacts both your wallet and the environment. By prioritising energy-efficient options, you can reduce your bathroom's energy usage without sacrificing quality or performance.
How to Fix It:
Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs, which use less power and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Consider switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs. These use considerably less power and have a longer lifespan. This change reduces electricity bills and environmental impact. Consider integrating motion sensors or timers to automatically turn off lights when the bathroom is not in use, further enhancing energy savings. By embracing energy-efficient solutions, you contribute to a more sustainable home while enjoying the benefits of modern lighting technology.