How to light up your Bathroom like a professional

Generally speaking, ceiling downlights in the bathroom will get the job done, however they're terrible for your beauty and grooming regime. In fact, harsh light from above will create dark shadows, blotches and lines across your face – not what you want to see each morning. So how do you create the perfect bathroom lighting?

1. Say yes to LED

Yes, they are more expensive, but they are a superior in every way from light output, longevity, efficiency and energy costs to interior finesse. Basically, they are worth every single cent.

2. Use daylight as much as you can

There is nothing better than natural light! Especially here in sunny Brisbane, Queensland. Our true selves are be represented in the daylight so this is the quality of light you will want to reproduce in your bathroom. So go for LED’s with daylight shades and show off your best self. Also optimise any windows you may have and possibly think about skylights. If you can’t have a skylight there are some faux products out there like solar LED skylights that also double as an LED downlight at night. They are sleek and beautiful.

3. Task Lighting

Although downlights from the ceiling will get the job done, they are not mirror or beauty friendly. For best task lighting – think makeup, hair and shaving – you want a pair of wall lights/sconces mounted at eye level on either side of your mirror to provide flawless illumination. Avoid above mirror lighting!! It’ not flattering at all and a very common mistake to make.

4. Use Dimmers

Make sure your lights are on dimmers so when you first turn them on in the morning your eyes are not screaming in pain or shock. Also think about some dimmed LED sensor strip lighting that will automatically turn on for those midnight toilet trips without waking up everyone else.

5. Decorative, Accent and Ambient Lighting

Of course, you want to show off your stunning bathroom design and some visual sparkle. If you have a larger space a single pendant may just add that special touch. If you love art in the bathroom think about some recessed accent lighting to show off your pieces. Ambient light acts as “light fillers” – these are typically your ceiling lights that fill in the dark spaces.

6. Light switches

Your light switches can also be stunning and sleek, there are too many options. One of my personal favourites is the Clipsal Iconic classic and essence series – basic, clean and cost effective. We recommend that your light switches and exhaust fan are on different switches. I don’t know about you but hearing that fan turn on every time I wash my hands drives me crazy. It’s also nice to have your task, accent and general lighting separate so you can control your light flow dependent on what you are doing.

7. Heat and exhaust fans

Think about if you want heat lamps as a way of providing some warmth in your bathroom in winter. They can also help moisture absorption. Exhaust fans are an absolute must to prevent mould, mildew, structural rot and water damage to your paint and bathroom materials.

8. Reflective Surfaces

The surfaces you choose can affect the quality and tones of your lights. Shiny surfaces, tiles and mirrors will reflect light and maximise ambience. However, they may also create glare. Some paint colours will absorb light better than others. For these fine details, it’s important to talk to your lighting specialist for some advice. Most lighting stores will have one readily available.

Speak to us today: 3520 7133 to discuss your bathroom lighting options.