The Ultimate Guide to Bathroom Wall Lights

Bathroom lighting doesn’t have to be harsh or sterile with fluorescent brightness. When you’ve put so much thought into the lighting in your other rooms, it’s just as important to carry that attention to detail into your bathroom.

From modern wall lights to classic sconces, bathroom lighting plays a crucial role in setting the tone for a relaxing, premium atmosphere. Investing in high-quality and stylish bathroom wall lights is a smart choice, improving both the design and functionality of your space while offering lasting value.

In this guide, we’ll provide expert insights on why bathroom wall lights are essential, the best types to choose, where to place them, ideal brightness levels, IP ratings, and more - helping you make an informed decision.

Why bathroom wall lights matter

You may not have given much thought to the importance of choosing the right bathroom wall lights, but these key reasons will highlight how a few simple decisions can make a big difference.

Precision & practicality

Bathroom wall lights are essential for task lighting, particularly around mirrors where clarity is crucial. Whether you’re shaving, applying makeup, or following a skincare routine, the right lighting makes sure you can see every detail with accuracy.

Poor lighting creates harsh shadows, distorts colours, and makes things like grooming difficult, so a well-balanced setup is vital in achieving natural and functional illumination.

The ambience

You might not consider ambience a priority in your bathroom since it's primarily a practical space. However, think about the times you use it - early mornings when you're just waking up or late evenings when you're winding down.

During these sensitive moments, the right lighting can make all the difference, offering a gentle, welcoming glow instead of harsh brightness.

And since your bathroom is also a space for relaxation and self-care, well-chosen wall lights can help create a soothing atmosphere, transforming it into a place of calm and regeneration.

But what types of modern wall lights are your best choice for your needs? And what brightness and hue of lighting fits best? 

Let’s take a look.

1. Soft, warm lighting (around 3,000K) creates a spa-like atmosphere for unwinding in the bath.

2. Cooler white lighting (closer to 4,000K) offers crisp, energising brightness for morning routines.

3. Dimmable options allow you to switch between functional brightness and a softer glow for evening use.

Choosing IP-rated wall lights for safe bathroom use

Let’s cover the basics on IP-Rated wall lights and why this rating is important for your safety.

What is an IP-rating?

An IP rating (Ingress Protection) indicates a light's protection level against moisture and dust.

What is a good IP-rating for a bathroom?

Understanding bathroom zones is key to choosing the right IP-rated lighting for safety and durability.

1. Zone 1 (Above the bath/shower, up to 2.25m from the floor). Requires IP65 or higher to withstand direct water exposure.

2. Zone 2 (Within 60 cm of a bath, shower, or sink). Needs IP44 or higher, as lights here must resist moisture and occasional splashes.

3. Zone 3 (Outside direct splash zones). IP21 or higher is usually sufficient, but higher ratings are recommended for humid environments.

Tip: Wet Zones (Inside showers or directly above baths) need IP65-rated fixtures for maximum water resistance.

Recommended Read: Bathroom Zones and IP-Ratings: What Do They Mean?

The aesthetic appeal

Lighting today offers the opportunity to introduce artistic design, sculptural forms, and unique textures and finishes into your home, going beyond mere functionality and allowing you to expand your overall home lighting scheme - in style.

Whether you lean towards industrial, minimalist, eclectic, or another style, the right fixture can become a statement piece in your bathroom.

Consider the materials and finishes that will harmonise with your bathroom’s aesthetic, creating a cohesive look that complements the space.

Here are some materials and finishes to think about.

• Matte black & brass bring a modern-industrial aesthetic.

• Opal glass & chrome for a clean, contemporary look.

• Aged brass & ribbed glass for a timeless, heritage-inspired feel.

We recommend The J.Adams Orbit Stone Wall Light for its unique sculptural design, featuring a hand-carved stone finish that adds an earthy, textured element to your bathroom.

For those who appreciate architectural lighting, the IP44-rated Davey Narrow Box Light is an excellent choice. Its slim, industrial design, paired with either clear or frosted glass, creates a sharp contrast that highlights the light's refined and distinctive structure.

The best types of bathroom wall lights and where to place them

Read on to discover our expert recommendations.

Mirror lighting (either side)

Position wall lights on either side of the mirror to make sure you have even illumination. By doing so, you are reducing shadows and providing clear, accurate lighting for grooming.

Consider choosing The Old School Electric Elongated Prismatic Bathroom Wall Light with its stylish and elegant swan arm and Italian prismatic glass shade on either side of your mirror for a high level of 360-degree illumination on either side.

Above or below the mirror

If you choose to place lights above or below the mirror, it’s important to be certain they are positioned carefully to avoid harsh shadows, especially under the eyes and chin.

The Tala Firth Bathroom Wall Light is a stylish and sustainable bathroom lighting choice here. It offers a warm, dimmable glow with an IP44 wet rating, perfect for modern, minimalist spaces and positioning above or below your mirror.

Around the bath or shower area

Use bathroom wall lights to accentuate specific areas like the bath or shower, but be mindful of their proximity to water sources to maintain safety.

For IP44-rated fixtures, place them at least 60 cm away from water sources, like the edge of a bath or shower. For areas that may be exposed to direct water splash, be certain that the wall lights you choose are rated IP65 or higher for added safety.

The Lampe Gras 304 Bathroom Wall Light is ideal for bathrooms due to its IP44 rating, making it resistant to moisture and suitable for areas like Zone 2, where light is exposed to water splashes.

Its industrial design and adjustable arm provide both practical task lighting and a stylish, customizable fixture to highlight key areas in the bathroom.

Accent lighting

Highlight architectural features or artwork, like exposed bricks, statement mirrors, unique tiles or patterns, freestanding baths or art to bring depth and texture.

The ideal brightness & colour temperature for bathroom lighting

Now you know what bathroom lighting can do and how to use it best and safest, let’s talk about the specifics of brightness and colour temperature. These are important because they affect both functionality and ambiance in your bathroom.

Brightness, measured in lumens, determines how well-lit your space is, while colour temperature, measured in Kelvins (K), influences the mood and practicality of the lighting.

Task Lighting

This type of lighting comes in at 500–800 lumens, 3,000K–4,000K – optimum for mirrors and grooming areas, offering a crisp yet flattering illumination.

Ambient lighting

Here we have ambient lighting that is less, with 300–500 lumens, 2,700K–3,000K. It creates a warm, relaxing atmosphere for unwinding in the bath.

Accent lighting 

This varies, but typically it’s around 2,700K–3,000K. It is used to highlight architectural details or statement features without overpowering the space.

In conclusion, when choosing a light, consider what you need it for - whether it’s precision for grooming, a calming glow for relaxation, or a statement piece to bring out character in your space.

How to create a layered lighting scheme with bathroom wall lights

A well-considered and well-executed layered lighting scheme in your bathroom can create a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere.

Here’s how to use bathroom wall lights effectively within a balanced lighting plan.

Layering for functionality

To make sure your bathroom is well-lit for all tasks, combine all three layers of lighting: Task lighting, ambient lighting and accent lighting as advised previously.

That way, all your needs and the parts of the space you want to highlight are met.

Ambiance and mood

The key to setting the right mood is control over the brightness and colour temperature of your bathroom wall lights.

We recommend following these three rules to achieve the atmosphere you want.

1. Use dimmable wall lights to transition from bright morning lighting (4,000K) to softer evening tones (2,700K–3,000K).

2. Select wall lights with diffusers or frosted glass shades to reduce glare and create a more relaxing effect.

3. Position indirect lighting behind mirrors or recessed into niches to give off a subtle glow without harsh reflections.

Tips for balanced lighting

Here are our quick tips on how to balance your lighting the expert way.

Keep symmetry in mind

If you plan on using multiple fixtures, be sure they are evenly spaced to avoid uneven illumination.

Think about angles

Adjustable wall lights should be positioned at a 45-degree downward angle when used as task lighting to reduce direct glare.

Mix up mounting heights

Combining wall lights at different levels (for example, mirror-level task lights and lower-level accent lights) creates depth and interest.

Maintenance & safety

The maintenance and upkeep of your bathroom wall lights is an essential part of their safety and longevity, especially when considering the moisture present in bathrooms.

Here’s how to do it right and well.

Use non-abrasive cleaners

To clean the surface of moisture-resistant bathroom wall lights, use a soft cloth and a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade finishes like chrome or matte black.

A mixture of mild dish soap and warm water is all you need, and it works well.

For glass or acrylic light covers, avoid ammonia-based products, which can be too abrasive for the job. Instead, opt for a vinegar-water solution, which involves one part vinegar to three parts water. This combination is the best for cleaning without streaks and isn’t damaging to your lights.

Dust regularly

Dust and dirt accumulate easily, especially in damp environments like bathrooms. Use a soft microfibre cloth or a hand vacuum to regularly remove dust from fixtures and light covers to keep them safe and responsive.

For modern wall lights with exposed bulbs, make sure you wipe around the bulb areas to avoid dust buildup, which can affect light output.

Keep moisture at bay

Even moisture-resistant lights can suffer if there’s consistent exposure to humidity or standing water. For example, if your light has a metal finish, rust may build up on it if it isn’t wiped dry.

We suggest installing an extractor fan or keeping bathroom windows open after showers to minimise excess moisture in the air.

Electrical safety for bathroom wall lights

Due to the presence of moisture and the potential for water contact, bathroom wall lights require a higher standard of electrical safety.

We recommend adhering to the following advice to make sure your wall lights are safe.

• Make sure you follow IP Rating Compliance. Check that your wall lights have the proper IP (Ingress Protection) rating of at least IP44.
• Installation isn’t a DIY job. Hire a qualified electrician to install your bathroom wall lights for safety and peace of mind, they are correctly wired.
• Regularly check the condition of your electrical connections and fittings. If you notice flickering lights or inconsistent performance, it could be a sign that the wiring needs attention.

All in all…

Choosing the perfect bathroom wall lights is so much more than just illumination - it’s about creating a restful, safe and beautiful space.

From task lighting to ambient lighting and even accent lighting, each choice impacts the feel and character of your bathroom. Opting for IP-rated fixtures guarantees safety in moisture-prone areas, while selecting the right brightness and colour temperature makes for a harmonious feel and look.

We hope you found some inspiration for your bathroom lighting from this guide.

Written by Adam Knight
Adam is the Head of E-Commerce, which means in work he is often a very busy man. His current mission outside of work is to wrestle his garden away from 3 rabbits, a dog and 2 children and turn it into a relaxing retreat. He has never knowingly turned down a cup of tea.