Bathroom lighting used to mean one large fluorescent bulb on the ceiling to illuminate the whole bathroom. Although this is cheap and functional, it is hardly attractive and flattering, especially when your mirror is right under the harsh light. Fortunately, manufacturers are now offering toned-down bathroom lights in several attractive styles. Here are some of the most popular.

Shower lights

These are round, flat fixtures designed to illuminate tubs, shower areas, and saunas. They have waterproof bulbs and casings that allow them to be installed close to shower heads, or even underwater. A “jetproof,” “showerproof,” or “splashproof” label usually indicates that a particular model passes quality standards and is safe for regular use.

Downlights

Downlights are small, low-voltage bulbs that are recessed into a surface. Some can be rotated to face various angles, like a spotlight. They can be installed in rows on ceilings, cabinet hoods, or cabinet bottoms. Use them with a dimmer to set a relaxing mood for an evening bath.

LED lights

These lights are available in various colors, usually red, green, blue, and white. They are ideal for small applications and recessed fixtures such as step lights, downlights, and underwater lights. White bulbs provide good spot lighting and are very power-efficient.

Spot lights

Spot lights usually come in twos or threes and are attached to base plates or bars. They come in can fixtures suspended from the base plate. They can be rotated to illuminate various areas, making them ideal for large bathrooms or those with limited overhead wiring.

Modern lighting

Modern bathroom lighting favors sleek, minimalist designs and combinations of various finishes and materials. Wall sconces, disc lights, and other accent fixtures are fairly popular. Common shell shapes are domes, pyramids, and cylinders.

Flush fitting ceiling lights

These lights are mounted on bases that protrude from the ceiling, casting light onto all sides. The bulbs are often enclosed in frosted or translucent globe shells for a soft, diffused glow. Standard globe diameters are six, eight, and 10.75 inches.

Wall lights

Wall lights are mounted onto walls using metal brackets. Also called wall sconces, they are ideal for small bathrooms because they do not take up floor or countertop space. They also make good accent lights on large, blank walls. They come in various designs, from plain and traditional globe styles to sleek designer models.

Lighting pendants

Lighting pendants are suspended from a base on the ceiling, either with a rod or flex connection. They often come in elegant wood and brass designs, making them ideal for bathrooms with a period theme. There are also steel and glass models for contemporary bathrooms.

Lighting brackets

These lights have a very traditional look, combining a sculpted backplate and a large globe bulb. They provide excellent ambient light and are best used with a dimmer to set the right mood. Globes are usually available in six- and eight-inch diameters.

Pull switches

Pull switches eliminate the electrical hazards of wall switches, which are prone to splashes and circuit problems. They are available in plain, traditional, and contemporary styles to match any bathroom décor. Some units also include a dimmer rod.

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