Creating a focal point in the bathroom with outstanding vanity lights.
The bathroom basin gives you a sinking feeling? It’s perhaps time to rethink the lighting. The once function wash hand basin is not enough. The vanity has morphed into a zone. Many of us installing a double sink a feature in it own right, but unlit makes it feel unloved. Every bathroom interior you see has a visually stunning vanity area. Well lit, beautiful and oh so enviable!
If it’s time for an update consider a Bathroom Safe Vanity light as a forethought. This will enhance the look and importantly the function of the space. Before making a splash and buying a light for above the wash hand basin there a few things to know! Let LightingCompany.co.uk help guide you to a better bathroom vanity area.
In this guide we’ll cover the 3 key questions below and also a little inspiration in this revised updated article. So much has changed in both style and regulations in the past few years. If you would like more information on bathroom light consider reading The Definitive Guide to Bathroom Lighting which covers all aspects of lighting a bathroom safely. Not all wall lights are safe for bathroom use so great care must be taken to only select bathroom safe wall lights. Be they Modern Wall Lights for zone 1 and 2 or more traditional bathroom safe wall lights.
- “Where to place bathroom vanity lights”
- “Should bathroom mirror lights be on the side or above?”
- “Best lighting setup for makeup in bathroom”
Quick Guide to Positioning Lights Around a Mirror or Vanity
Getting your mirror or vanity lighting right can dramatically improve both function and style. The key is to eliminate shadows and light the face evenly, especially for tasks like shaving, makeup, or skincare.
Where Should Vanity Lights Go?
There are two ideal approaches, depending where the electric points are, the mirror size, style, and bathroom layout:
1. Wall Lights Either Side of the Mirror (Best Practice)
- Placement: One fitting on each side, mounted at eye level (typically 150–165 cm from the floor)
- Spacing: Aim for 20–30 cm from the edge of the mirror on each side
- Benefits:
- Minimises shadows on the face
- Provides balanced illumination
- Looks elegant in both modern and classic settings
Browse Bathroom Wall Lights
2. Light Above the Mirror
- Placement: Directly above the centre of the mirror, ideally mounted 5–10 cm above the top edge
- Fixture Style: Use a bar light, over-mirror strip, or integrated illuminated mirror
- Benefits:
- Saves space in narrower layouts
- Good for general task lighting
- Stylish when using modern, slimline IP-rated fittings
Shop Traditional wall lights for vanity units
Shop Modern Lights for vanity units
Tips to Keep in Mind
- Use warm-white LEDs (2700–3000 K) for a natural tone
- Avoid recessed downlights directly over the mirror — they cast shadows under eyes and chin. If you do opt for recessed lights for the bathroom ensure they are bathroom safe.
- Always check for IP44+ rating if the fixture falls in Zone 2
- Where possible, wire these to a separate switch so you can control task lighting independently from general ceiling lights or opt for Switched bathroom wall lights.
Trending Bathroom Vanity Light Styles in the UK (2025)
1. Statement Wall Sconces & Oversized Shapes
Bold, oversized vanity lights—or multiple lights—are making a statement. These multiple sconces often serve as a focal point and functional task lighting, luxury and purposeful they create visual impact.
2. Globe & Opal Glass Fixtures
Globe lights with opal finishes provide a soft, atmospheric glow—ideally suited for luxurious, diffusing light and minimising glare around vanity units.
3. Mixed Metals & Industrial Finishes
Vanity lighting is trending in brushed brass and black often mixed through the space. These finishes offer the opportunity to pull together a look and unify the look. They can also be used for contrasting beautifully with neutral palettes.
4. Art-Deco and Geometric Designs
Art Deco inspired lighting is increasingly popular. A modern take on deco but echoing the vintage details. Deco as a trend works in every area of the home especially good for bathrooms where buying once and buying better is a key attraction. Bathrooms are expensive rooms to change which makes the longevity of deco style a good option. Shop Art Deco bathroom wall lights
5. Double Bubble
Vertical wall lights are gaining momentum—especially in small or contemporary bathrooms. These fixtures provide a statement of intent and up grade a modest bathroom into a more decadent space. In addition it gives more light in the vanity area making them idea for tasks such as shaving and make up application. Why have one light when you can double up and have a double!
6. Sleek Black
Clean lines, simplicity, contrasting with white suites, monochrome defines this aesthetic. Vanity lighting pairing with white surrounds, is understated and fairly inexpensive but packs a visual punch that never fails to impress. Shop black bathroom wall lights
7. Asymmetric
Rather than symmetry, try embracing off-set vanity sconces installed deliberately off-centre. This works well if the mirror serves tall and small people—as well as adding visual intrigue and a less predictable feel.
Consider the bathroom vanity unit light in the context of the other lights in the room.
The Unedited blog is below. We’ve left this for you incase there is a little gem that helps you with you bathroom makeover. If you have any further questions contact customer services sales team who will be happy to answer any bathroom lighting questions.
The bathroom ceiling light is great at lighting the main area of your bathroom, but it can cause an annoying glare when you look in the mirror. By lighting the mirror this helps balance light and counteracts the glare.
Bathroom mirror lighting helps to spread light over your reflection, reducing glare.
So, what are the best lights for bathroom vanity lighting? The ones that look beautiful, fit the style of the room and serve the purpose of being safe and lighting the area.
Bathroom wall lights are a great way to bring light into a bathroom. As well as bringing practicality into the bathroom, they are also really good at zoning a space.Create an insta-worthy vignette on your bathroom wall using lights to showcase a feature mirror.
TOP TIP – position your bathroom wall lights between 20 and 30cm from the edge of your mirror to ensure that there is no glare.
Over mirror lights for bathrooms help to stretch the eye to the ceiling, making rooms appear taller.
They produce a soft wash of light down over the mirror which is great for applying your makeup or having a shave.
Using bathroom ceiling pendants either side of a mirror is a genius design plan. Not only are you utilising the current trend of bathroom lighting, you’re spreading illumination on your reflection too!
You can adjust the hanging height of your bathroom ceiling pendant upon installation, so you can take your time to get this right.
You can choose to use one single pendant over the mirror, the effects of which would be similar to an over mirror light. Alternatively, you could go ‘all in’ and a pair either side!
Bathroom wall lights with a shaver socket are another great space saving idea. It also adds convenience, as you can charge your shavers, electric toothbrushes etc. where you actually need to use them.
Illuminated bathroom vanity mirrors are perfect for those who know that the ‘devil lies in the detail’!
Get up close and personal and sort out any annoying little imperfections. These lit vanity lights leave no stone unturned. Positioned on swing arms, you can position them with ease, and many come with magnified glass too.
So, now you know! The best bathroom lights to use with a mirror. Now, you’re ready to be the best version of yourself. Which one will you choose?
