Bathroom & Vanity Lighting

1. Small bathrooms can be supplied with sufficient lighting from vanity fixtures with three incandescent light bulbs. Larger ones with over 100 square feet of space should supplement vanities with additional sources.

2. A small, single fixture mounted above the mirror can cast shadows and make it difficult to carry out even basic grooming tasks. To eliminate this problem, mount wall sconces with opaque glass shades on each side of the mirror.

3. Modern bathrooms are places of convenience, where taking a long, hot bath or relaxing in a whirlpool tub requires a bit of mood with just the right amount of illumination surrounding you. Sconce fixtures not only supply a soft and relaxing atmosphere, but this vertical beam can also make a room look larger.

4. Ceiling lights can provide most of the illuminating needs for a restroom. The only other thing needed is a fixture located over mirror that casts a beam downward to help with basic grooming needs.

5. The washroom is a naturally humid place, and moisture in the air can causes problems for some electrical fixtures. The use of a bathroom exhaust fan is recommended to eliminate humidity; it is also recommended that fixtures be UL approved, for use in damp locations.

6. If you are positioning the fixture so that there is a risk it will be splashed with water from sinks and showers (especially in bathrooms used by kids), make sure that it is certified for use in wet locations.

7. Incandescent bulbs diffused by glass or plastic and frosted bulbs are the most flattering and effective at reducing glare. Color-corrective fluorescent bulbs have tones similar to incandescent bulbs, at a more energy-efficient spending rate. Fluorescent bulbs have up to 10 times the life of an incandescent bulb.

8. Fixtures mounted over a vanity mirror should be located 6.5 feet above the floor (or above eye level) and should be at least 2 feet wide for the most effective, shadow-free reflection. For vanities that have double sinks use one that is the length of the mirror, not the sink.

9. Conventional nightlights illuminate a path to and within washroom, and they provide safety from tripping and other unexpected accidents. Low-watt/voltage linear fixtures mounted in the space beneath the vanity cabinet is an unusual and attractive source of safety.

10. Flat or recessed ceiling lights work best in bathrooms with low ceilings. High ceilings leave decorators the option of using suspended pendants to add volume to the room.