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A small bathroom does not need to be boring and cluttered. The darker it is, the smaller it appears.
Don't worry if you've run out of creative small bathroom light.
With 10 of the best light options for small spaces, we'll help you transform your space.
They'll transform your bathroom into a place where you can start your day brightly and end it comfortably.
So let's get right to it.
How to Plan Your Bathroom Lighting
The first step in determining the best bathroom lighting for your space is to consider the natural lighting you have. A bathroom without a window may require a brighter overhead light, whereas one with plenty of natural light may only require task and accent lighting. In any case, layer lighting in your bathroom to create a dimensional and homey space.
When it comes to electrical lighting in a bathroom, a good rule of thumb is to aim for around 50 lumens per square foot to mimic natural daylight. The exact lumens you require will depend on your square footage, but you want enough lighting to help you get ready in the morning without being blinded when you first wake up.
We recommend that you begin at the top and work your way down. First, make sure you have enough light overhead by using ceiling lighting. Then, consider the most important aspect of your bathroom: the vanity. This is the task lighting that you will use the most and has the most variety. Finally, think about using ambient or additional lighting, such as shower or bathtub lights, to illuminate nooks and crannies and add a touch of personality and warmth.
If you're looking for the perfect lighting combination, here's a rundown of the different types to consider.
Lighting for Tasks
Your task lighting is the lighting in your bathroom that you will most likely notice (or at least notice first). This is focused illumination designed to assist you in completing a task. Typically, task lighting is located near your vanity. However, it can also be found in your shower to assist you with tasks such as shaving or conditioning.
Lighting for Vanity
When choosing vanity lighting, consider the size of your vanity and the amount of natural light you already have. A vanity near a window can get away with a 45-watt bulb and a fixture that throws a little less light, whereas a double vanity in a room with little natural light should focus on brighter, more exposed lighting.
The most common type of vanity task lighting is sconces. We recommend two sconces at or just above eye level to the side of your mirror for the most light without any unflattering shadows (or, roughly 60 inches off the ground). This allows you to perfectly frame your mirror and your face to highlight your reflection.
The other option is to install a fixture directly above the mirror, but if you do this, choose one with an opaque cover to avoid harsh overhead lighting that casts unflattering shadows. A directional or exposed light bulb can cast shadows around your eyes or nose, making it difficult to trust what you see in the mirror.
Your decision will also be influenced by the shape and size of your mirror. A round mirror in a small powder room may only have room for one eye-level sconce, whereas a double vanity may have multiple eye-level sconces.
What is the best type of bathroom lighting?
Here are some small bathroom lighting ideas to help you light up your space without making it feel cluttered:
- Use a metal wire cage or a mini pendant light with clear glasses.
- With two matching mini pendant lights, you can create symmetry.
- Purchase a focal point light, preferably a ceiling light.
Where should lighting be placed in a bathroom?
Hanging ceiling light fixtures and mini pendant lights in areas where you need the most light, such as the shaving and makeup area, are the best small bathroom lighting ideas.
Should bathroom lighting fixtures be installed above the mirror?
Yes, the best small bathroom lighting ideas include positioning the light near a mirror to reflect more light throughout the space.
If you need it to light up your mirror and vanity areas for makeup application, keep it 3 feet away from walls to avoid unflattering shadows.
Are you eager to put our top small bathroom lights to the test?
Use flush-mount lighting and task lighting next to your mirror and around your vanity area to get the most out of these lighting fixtures.
Pendant lighting is the best light source for task lighting.
Check out our beautiful pendant lights and swoon-worthy ceiling lights to match your bathroom decor.
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