Skip to main content

21OAK may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

These bathroom lighting ideas will make your beauty routine so much better

Whether you are looking to redesign a bathroom or are in need of brighter lighting when you get ready in the morning, there are tons of bathroom lighting ideas depending on your needs. Nowhere is lighting more important than in a bathroom, so you want to make sure you’re choosing wisely. You need to consider bulb type, lighting direction (downlighting is key for dark bathrooms), size, and, of course, overall design. The bathroom is where you start and end your days, a place where you put makeup on, shave, and style your hair, so you want lighting bright enough during those times but that can also be dimmed to create a spa-like environment if you want to soak in the tub.

Here are bathroom lighting ideas we think you’ll love.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

What type of lighting is best for bathrooms?

There are tons of different types of vanity lights — caged, tube, shaded, and globe — and different bulb types for each. We like lights with a high Color Rendering Index (CRI) of 90 or higher so you can see all the colors in the room.

If you have a bathroom with a lot of natural light, you can opt for shaded options that may not give off as much light. Conversely, if there is limited natural light, choose lighting like bulbs or wall sconces on either side of the bathroom mirror that are more illuminating.

What type of lighting is best for makeup?

We love the old-school lighted mirror for putting on makeup. It’s lasted through the decades because it works. This one from Amazon has thousands of 5-star reviews and has 21 LED lights built-in so you can see exactly what you’re doing. You can also adjust the brightness via a touch sensor, so it can be really bright when you need it and dim if you’re putting on makeup while someone is sleeping near you.

If you’re really ready to take the lighting plunge, you can also invest in a vanity mirror that has built-in LEDs. These are perfect for putting on makeup and automatically give your bathroom a more upscale look.

LEDs in general are great for a bathroom because they are bright, energy-efficient, and less hassle than any other type of lighting — so don’t just consider them for a mirrored makeup light.

Luxurious bathroom with chandelier
Image used with permission by copyright holder

What is trending in bathroom lighting?

As we’ve all spent more and more time at home, our bathrooms have become a sanctuary where we can get away and relax. So why not make your bathroom feel like an actual spa?

Statement lighting has become a big trend this year. Choose a large chandelier or elegant pendants like you’d see in a hotel spa. Nature is also having a big moment, so why not combine the two and go for something like this Monique Lhuillier chandelier from Pottery Barn? This will offer both mood lighting and the drama necessary to create an at-home oasis, all while feeling like you are bringing the outdoors in.

industrial style bathroom
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Think about layered lighting

Another form-meets-function trend we love is layered lighting. This means there are multiple lighting sources throughout the bathroom depending on what’s needed. For instance, you could have accent lighting like the pendants mentioned above for mood, task lighting like recessed lights above the shower (which is key for leg shaving), and overall lighting to illuminate the entire space. You can mix and match different styles and metals or have one uniform look throughout the bathroom, depending on your personal style.

Your bathroom is a place for putting on face masks, shaving, plucking, and showering, so you need a room that provides proper lighting throughout, especially if you don’t have a lot of natural light or have a large bathroom that needs multiple lights. Bright lights are important for this, but not when you want to relax, light a candle, and listen to soothing music in the bath. One idea we love for a bathroom is to install dimmer switches so you can have the best of both worlds, and you can switch them up and down depending on your needs.

There are dimmers available for fluorescent, LED, and incandescent lights. Some come already available depending on the lighting your choose and others can be easily installed to existing lighting. Before you choose fixtures, make sure you know what wattage the lights can take and factor this into how you use the space on a daily basis. Spend time looking at all the options out there, especially if you are building or remodeling, and have the option to really map out where the lights will go and how you want the fixtures to flow. Bathroom lights can make a space, so get creative and have fun.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Julie Scagell
Former Digital Trends Contributor
I am a freelance writer based in Minneapolis, MN. My passions include my dogs, talking about my dogs, and taking pictures of…
9 amazing accent wall ideas for your home
These accent wall ideas will add a splash of style to any space
Gray and shiplap accent walls

When it comes to giving your home a fresh and exciting makeover, one of the easiest and most impactful ways to do it is by creating an accent wall. An accent wall is a focal point in a room that draws attention and adds character to the space. It's a canvas for your creativity and can transform the entire look and feel of a room. Let's explore nine amazing accent wall ideas that will inspire you to revamp your living spaces.

1. Bold colors: A classic among accent wall ideas
One of the most timeless and straightforward ways to create an accent wall is by using bold colors in contrast to the other white or neutral-colored walls. Choose a vibrant paint color for your accent wall that contrasts with the rest of the room. This can be a deep blue in an otherwise neutral room or a fiery red in a sea of grays. Bold colors make a strong statement and are an excellent choice for those looking to add drama and personality to their space.

Read more
Spa bathroom decor: 4 things the experts say you should add to your space
Advice to create a spa-like bathroom space
Rolled towels and plant in bathroom

When it comes to creating a sanctuary within your own home, there's no place quite like the spa bathroom. A well-designed spa bathroom can be your daily retreat from the hustle and bustle of life, offering relaxation and rejuvenation right at your fingertips. If you're looking to transform your bathroom into a spa-like oasis, here are four expert-recommended additions that will elevate your space to the next level.

1. Choose calming colors and natural decor
The first step in achieving a spa-like bathroom is to choose calming colors that promote relaxation and tranquility. Opt for soft, neutral tones such as soothing blues, muted greens, and warm earthy hues. These colors create a serene atmosphere and mimic the soothing ambiance of a spa.

Read more
Smart bathroom design: How to upgrade your space, according to the experts
Bring tech into your space for a new design element
Modern minimalist bathroom with light colors

When it comes to home design, bathroom renovation and upgrades are usually among our top priorities. With the advent of smart technology, though, home design experts say it's time to reconsider how you approach your bathroom design. Smart bathroom design is a growing trend that combines functionality, convenience, and style.

"As smart home technology continues to advance, bathrooms will likely incorporate more high-tech features."

Read more