Lighting buying guide
Bathroom and mirror lighting: what to check
You need light for everyday tasks and fittings suited to the location’s moisture and water exposure. The word “bathroom” does not replace checking the specification.
Guide chapters — choose a topic
Combine general and task lighting
- Use general lighting to make the room and routes clearly visible.
- Plan mirror lighting for the face, not just a bright spot above the head. Consider shadows, glare and reflections.
- Check the view from normal positions, including a mirror, shower or bath.
- Keep the colour of nearby lights consistent unless you deliberately want different zones.
- A night-time setting can use lower output, but the product must support the intended controls.
Safety depends on position
Water exposure, electrical zones, fitting class, voltage and protective measures need to be assessed together. A blanket rule such as “IP44 is enough for the bathroom” is not reliable for every installation.
Give the electrician the layout, dimensions, bath/shower position and exact fitting specifications. Choose products whose manufacturer permits the intended installation. This guide does not provide instructions for connecting wiring.
Check the mirror fitting
| Parameter | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Dimensions and mounting | It must suit the mirror, cupboard and wall. |
| Light distribution | Light should help with daily tasks without excessive shadows or glare. |
| Lumens, colour temperature and CRI | Assess brightness, white tone and colour rendering separately. |
| IP and installation instructions | Verify the precise position and conditions with the installer. |
| Driver, switch and additional functions | Confirm what is included, its location and how it is controlled. |
Questions before buying
Can I place any wall light beside a basin?
Only if it is suitable for that precise position and the installation requirements are met.
Should mirror lights always be cool white?
No. Choose a comfortable white tone and suitable colour rendering and output; assess the whole room.
Prepared by Twoje-Lampy.pl · updated 24 October 2026.
Technical references: www.ledvance.com, webstore.iec.ch.