Bathroom Wall Lights

Where should bathroom wall lights be positioned?

For the most flattering and functional result, bathroom wall lights work best when positioned either side of a mirror at roughly eye level, around 150 to 160cm from the floor. This eliminates the shadows cast by overhead lighting that can make tasks like applying makeup or shaving more difficult. If side positioning isn't practical, a single wall light or mirror light mounted directly above the mirror is a good alternative. For trade buyers fitting out multiple bathrooms across a development or hotel, agreeing a consistent mounting height at the outset makes installation quicker and ensures a uniform finish throughout.

Are bathroom wall lights safe to use in a shower room?

Yes, provided the fitting carries the appropriate IP rating for the zone in which it will be installed. All of our wholesale bathroom wall lights are IP44 rated, making them safe for use in zones 1 and 2, which covers the area directly above and within 60cm of a bath or shower. For wet rooms or areas where the fitting may be directly exposed to water jets, a higher IP rating would be required. Our bathroom spotlights and downlights include options rated to IP65 for exactly these environments. Always ensure installation is carried out by a qualified electrician in line with UK wiring regulations.

Can bathroom wall lights be used as the main light source in a bathroom?

In smaller bathrooms and shower rooms, a combination of well positioned wall lights can provide adequate general illumination without the need for a separate ceiling light. For larger bathrooms, wall lights work best as part of a layered scheme alongside a bathroom ceiling light or bathroom downlights, providing task lighting at the mirror while the ceiling fitting handles general ambient illumination throughout the space.

What style of bathroom wall light works best in a hotel ensuite?

For hotel ensuites, clean and contemporary wall light styles in chrome, brushed nickel or matte black finishes tend to work best as they complement a wide range of bathroom schemes without competing with other design elements. Symmetrical pairs of wall lights positioned either side of the mirror are a consistently popular choice in hotel bathrooms, adding a boutique, high end feel that guests respond well to. Browse our full bathroom lighting range for coordinating ceiling lights and mirror lights to complete the scheme.

Do bathroom wall lights need a pull cord switch?

Under UK wiring regulations, light switches must not be within reach of a person using a bath or shower. This means that in most bathroom layouts, wall lights will need to be wired to either a pull cord switch inside the bathroom or a standard switch located outside the bathroom door. Some bathroom wall lights can also be wired to an existing ceiling rose or lighting circuit, which your electrician will be able to advise on during installation.