Bathroom

Wet location rated fixtures withstand direct water exposure and must be used in shower and tub areas. Damp location rated fixtures protect against moisture and humidity but cannot handle direct water spray. Use damp rated fixtures in general bathroom areas like above vanities, on walls outside the shower, and for ceiling lights positioned away from tubs.

Bathrooms typically use color temperatures ranging from 2700K (warm white) to 5000K (cool white), with 3000K-4000K being most common. Our best advice is to ensure all fixtures in your bathroom match the same color temperature for a cohesive look. Consider CCT selectable fixtures that let you adjust between 2700K, 3500K, and 4000K-5000K, giving you flexibility to change the ambiance if your preferences evolve over time.

Yes, recessed lights (also called can lights) work well in bathrooms when properly rated. Use IC-rated (insulation contact) fixtures for ceilings with insulation above. For shower and tub areas, choose wet location rated recessed lights with sealed housings and waterproof trim. For general bathroom areas, damp location rated recessed fixtures are sufficient. LED recessed lights are ideal for bathrooms as they generate minimal heat and provide 50,000+ hour lifespans.

For LED bulbs, use 9-13 watts for vanity lighting (equivalent to 60-75 watt incandescent) and 13-18 watts for ceiling fixtures (equivalent to 75-100 watt incandescent). Bathrooms need brighter task lighting than other rooms. A single-sink vanity typically needs 75-100 watt equivalent total output, while double-sink vanities benefit from 150-200 watt equivalent. Consider integrated LED fixtures which eliminate bulb selection entirely and provide optimal wattage for the fixture design.

LED bulbs are best for bathrooms due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and instant-on performance. Choose LED bulbs with high CRI (Color Rendering Index) ratings of 90+ for accurate skin tones during grooming and makeup application. Avoid CFL (compact fluorescent) bulbs as they contain mercury, take time to reach full brightness, and perform poorly in humid environments. Standard A19 LED bulbs work in most fixtures, while globe or candelabra LED bulbs suit decorative sconces and vanity lights.

For fixtures mounted above the mirror, choose a light that spans 75% of the mirror width. A 36-inch vanity typically requires a 24-30 inch fixture or three 1-light fixtures spaced evenly. For side-mounted sconces, position fixtures 28-30 inches apart, centered at 60-65 inches from the floor. Larger vanities over 60 inches often benefit from 4-light, 5-light, or 6-light fixtures for even illumination.

Yes, LED lights are ideal for bathrooms. LED fixtures provide 50,000+ hour lifespans, consume 75% less energy than incandescent options, and generate minimal heat. Modern LED fixtures are available in wet and damp location ratings for all bathroom zones. Look for fixtures with high CRI (Color Rendering Index) ratings of 90+ for accurate color representation during grooming and makeup application.

Use a layered approach combining ambient, task, and accent lighting. Install ceiling fixtures centrally for general lighting. Position vanity lights 75-80 inches from the floor when mounted above mirrors, or 60-65 inches for side-mounted sconces. Space multiple fixtures evenly across wide vanities. In larger bathrooms, consider separate zones with independent controls for the vanity, toilet/tub, and shower areas.