Lamps in the bathroom on the ceiling: types, placement principles, installation nuances

Amir Gumarov
Checked by a specialist: Amir Gumarov
Author: Tatyana Sokolova
Last update: April 2019

No matter how original the interior is, everything can ruin the wrong light. It is not surprising that the issue of lighting occupies a rather important place when arranging premises for various purposes. And for the bathroom it is no less relevant than for other functional rooms.

We will tell you how to correctly choose fixtures in the bathroom on the ceiling from among the products offered for sale. We will advise what needs to be done for rational placement and error-free installation. Based on our recommendations, you can easily create a cozy and pleasant atmosphere in a hygienic room.

What to consider when choosing appliances?

In the process of creating the design of the project, it is necessary to select the optimal model of the lamp, taking into account the features of the room, the design and texture of the finishing materials.

For example, built-in models are not suitable for arranging a bathroom with a ceiling from a concrete monolithic slab. In this case, it is better to use overhead appliances or ceiling in the form of chandeliers.

In an effort to create a stylish interior and comfortable atmosphere, special attention will be paid to the choice of lighting equipment. In this case, one must take into account the design, characteristics, sizes, power of the lamps, methods of fastening the electrical appliance and the need for additional structural elements.

Bathroom lighting
When arranging a spacious room, designers are advised to dwell on traditional lighting solutions that will fit perfectly into the interior

If the bathroom is large, then a beautiful chandelier will look organic. But the point models, competently and evenly distributed over the ceiling space, will create a stylish interior that takes into account trend trends.

When choosing fixtures, the following factors must be considered:

  • the area of ​​the room and the distance between the lamps;
  • zoning of the room, the need to highlight individual sections;
  • level of arrangement of devices;
  • style direction of the interior;
  • the color scheme of walls, floors, furniture and plumbing;
  • the presence of mirrors, tension structures, ceramic tiles and other surfaces that reflect light.

Before proceeding with installation work, it is necessary to consider the layout of the light sources and the nuances of laying cables. Some models offered by manufacturers in the assortment need to create special conditions.

The quality of products directly affects their service life. Expensive branded models of built-in or overhead lamps compare favorably with cheaper ones. They are of better quality, wear-resistant, therefore they retain their aesthetic appearance for a long time.

In an effort to create a stylish and original interior in the bathroom, we must not forget about security. Electrical appliances intended for installation in rooms with high humidity should have the maximum degree of protection to which the IP65 mark corresponds.

Degree of protection
The bathroom is divided into zones with different humidity. The bright blue area is subject to maximum water spray.

When arranging rooms with a high level of humidity, certain rules must be observed.

To organize safe room lighting, these recommendations will help:

  • only moisture resistant electrical appliances with a degree of protection against IP24 can be used;
  • in a zone of high humidity put low-voltage devices up to 12 V;
  • use lighting devices of the 2nd protection class next to the bath or shower cabin;
  • it is desirable that all metal parts are made of stainless steel or have anti-corrosion properties;
  • bulbs and other heating parts of electrical appliances should be equipped with protective covers or shades.

You should also remember about the features and properties of light rays. So, next to the washbasin it is better to use lamps with a softer yellow light. Otherwise, rather pale skin will be reflected in the mirror, which will interfere with proper makeup.

With selection rules color temperature and with the nomenclature designations of lighting devices that allow you to choose an LED bulb in accordance with this important characteristic, we will familiarize you with the article recommended by us.

Proper lighting
Proper lighting should be bright, soft and diffused. This will emphasize the color gamut of interior elements and decoration materials, create a cozy atmosphere

For a bathroom with dimensions of 5x2 m, 2 60 W lamps are sufficient. You can use 2 lamps, spaced on the sides, but in this case the mirror will need additional illumination. With guidelines for the selection of lighting devices for the bathroom will acquaint informative article, the content of which is fully devoted to this issue.

Types of fixtures for the bathroom

When arranging any room, it is important to choose and install lighting fixtures correctly, which for a combined bathroom or separate bathroom are divided into subgroups according to several criteria.

Placement and moisture resistance

Light sources can be installed at various points in the room. Depending on this, they are wall, ceiling, floor, built-in shower or in a mirror.

Pendant lights
Ceiling variations are in great demand among consumers. With their help, you can achieve diffuse and soft lighting of the bathroom

Distinguish between conventional and moisture-proof fixtures installed in the ceiling in the bathroom. The second option is designed for installation in rooms that are characterized by high humidity.

They are made of moisture resistant materials, and their design does not allow splashes of water to get inside the device. On the device body indicate degree of protection, which allows you to accurately select the product for safe operation in difficult operating conditions.

Protection index
Electrical equipment has an IP protection index. The first figure is the degree of protection of the device from mechanical damage, and the second indicates its ability to prevent the ingress of moisture

Placement separation

Lamps can be open and recessed. These subgroups differ in the method of their placement - on the ceiling or on the wall of the room. Depending on this factor, they can be point and pendant or wall.

Spotlights
Spotlights mounted in a ceiling structure emit bright light. They can embody the idea of ​​the designer - to provide uniform overall lighting or to emphasize individual areas

Due to the fact that there is an increased level of humidity in the bathroom, it is better to use lamps equipped with shades. If you use ordinary lamps, the contacts will quickly oxidize. This will make the device unsuitable for further use.

Different lighting in the combined bathroom
The best options for lighting the bathroom: one lamp with a large light bulb, several with a medium or small spotlights

Features of embedded and overhead models

An extensive range of fixtures of various designs is available on the market. They can be attached to the base of the ceiling or above its level, regardless of the type - drywall, tension, rack.

Depending on the method of attachment, the devices are divided into three types:

  • waybills;
  • mortise or built-in;
  • half-cut.

Mortise differ in the parameters of deepening. Therefore, when choosing, it is worth considering the distance by which the ceiling in the room is lowered. The size of the space behind the ceiling structure is at least 40 mm. For individual lighting systems, suspension systems should be lowered by 85-100 mm, which is unacceptable for a bathroom with a low ceiling.

Lighting devices of two types
In order to achieve perfect bathroom lighting and create a comfortable environment in a small room, it is necessary to choose the right lighting appliances

For built-in equipment, the light is downward, so it does not cover the entire surface of the ceiling. A spotlight illuminates the space locally, allowing you to create a muted backlight in the bathroom.

This is the best option for rooms that will look perfect fixtures and suspended ceilings. They allow the owner of the apartment to create an original interior design by investing a minimum of funds.

Recessed fixtures
Built-in appliances look stylish and are ideal for furnishing an interior in a minimalist style. Despite their simple construction, they emit a sufficient amount of bright light.

Overhead light sources have their own nuances when installing in a room with a stretch ceiling. You will need to use suspensions so that the fabric coating or film does not sag during operation.

Such models will effectively and stylishly look in a modern interior. They leave bright highlights on glossy, textured, mirror and shiny materials.

Glamorous bathroom
The range of overhead lamps is very wide. Consumers can purchase compact light bulbs, chic chandeliers, devices with a base of frosted or colored glass

The technical part of the half-mortise device is installed in the inner part of the ceiling, and the ceiling is outside.

Their installation requires space behind the ceiling structure. In this case, the light is directed perpendicular to the plane and is scattered around the room, which allows the use of bulbs more powerful.

Half-cut lamps
Semi-mortise models have the advantages of mortise and overhead. They are relatively inexpensive, aesthetically pleasing, create soft lighting and a cozy atmosphere.

Rotary and rotary devices

Directional light allows you to find the right solutions in lighting different areas. For this reason, rotary models are often used as targeted sources.They differ in a relatively simple design - the body of the device is fixed in the inter-ceiling surface, and its external part rotates.

The device can rotate in different directions and direct a beam of light in a certain area. It is used to illuminate the bathtub, shower, sink and dressing table.

This type of luminaire is great for emphasizing individual bright interior elements - it will effectively present a unique vase, an attractive panel or an original floral composition.

Pivot lights
Rotary models are characterized by the presence of a special movable structure with a lamp that can regulate the light flux and direct

Fixed devices feature fixed mounting and focused lighting. When they are turned on, the rays of light are directed in one direction, usually down.

In order to rationally distribute the light emanating from fixed models, they are installed in groups. Devices are placed in a line, in a circle or otherwise. Their number depends on the area of ​​the room.

Point models in which to install specific light bulbsare compact. By design, they are divided into protruding from the surface of the ceiling and hidden in the ceiling suspension system.

Electrical appliances recessed in the ceiling of the bathroom are suitable for any interior design, but give less light. The light stream is directed clearly down and only a small area under the device is illuminated.

Fixtures for the bathroom
Fixtures for the bathroom can be operated with different electric lamps. When choosing them take into account the design characteristics of the products

Varieties of lamps for fixtures

Often for organization bathroom lighting choose a simple and convenient incandescent lamp. It attracts with its low cost, but inferior halogen devices and LED models.

Its main disadvantages:

  • short warranty period from 1,000 to 1,500 hours;
  • if the base length or size does not fit the ceiling design, the suspension structure must be omitted;
  • It does not have surge protection, so it quickly burns out.

If you regularly turn on the light in the bathroom instead of traditional lamps, it is better to give preference to a 5 times more economical option - energy-saving.

Energy-saving lamps
Energy-saving light bulbs are often used in bathrooms and toilets equipped with pendant lights, most of which are equipped with lampholders for ordinary bulbs.

Halogen lamps can be installed in ceilings that are low. In any case, the luminous flux will be uniform. They give more light than classic ones, save energy and can be used 3 times longer.

These bulbs also tend to burn out. To replace a damaged working one, it is necessary to remove the retaining ring located on the spring, remove the cone and install a new one.

Recessed lamp
A popular halogen lamp designed for installation in a cone-shaped point device with a mirror reflector

It is not recommended to install lamps with capsular halogen light sources without a protective glass.

LED lights are distinguished by aesthetic performance and strict geometry of the contours. They are made in gold or silver shades, similar to the color spectrum of plumbing fixtures.

LED lights
The advantages of LED lamps are aesthetics, multifunctionality and compactness. The only negative is the high cost of the lamps

The main advantage of LED devices is their low power consumption. It is ten times smaller than the good old incandescent lamps.

In addition, a number of other advantages should be noted:

  • the number of switching on and off does not reduce the product's service life;
  • maximum light output 120 lumens / watt;
  • a wide range is possible without the use of light filters;
  • LED filament up to a maximum of 60 ° C;
  • safety in case of damage due to the absence of chemical compounds and glass fragments;
  • long term of operation (up to 50,000 hours).

This type of luminaire is characterized by the absence of a luminous flux of a natural type. To slightly mitigate the monochrome sharpness, you will have to use additional phosphors. To prevent the light from pulsating, you need an equalizing capacitor.

LED fixture
Bright LED lights are placed in the active areas - a bath or shower, next to the sink, in places for changing clothes

Fixtures in the interior of the bathroom

Outrageous modern styles require original lighting. For example, for an interior decorated in the style of art deco, bright fixtures framed by expensive wood, genuine leather and stunning semiprecious stones are ideal.

For a bathroom in a laconic hi-tech style, symmetrical and clear illumination in the washbasin zone and even rows of silver spotlights are suitable. And the classic assumes naturalness, elegance and luxury - they mount aesthetic sconces with shades on the walls and overhead products made of glass or crystal on the ceiling.

Art Deco Bathroom Lighting
Placement of lighting in the Art Deco bathroom: chandelier on the ceiling, bright sconces near the mirror, lighting of the ceiling structure and along the steps of the podium

In a bathroom with a small area, the interior often tends to minimalism, where you can diversify the lighting. For example, installation original backlight in the form of an LED strip that illuminates certain areas. You can use lamps of various shades, combine lighting electrical appliances - sconces, chandeliers, built-in point models.

Location of light sources

Choosing the location of the fixtures, it is necessary to make maximum use of the luminous flux emitted by them. In a room with a small area, it is advisable to mount built-in light sources, placing them around the perimeter of the room.

Perimeter spotlights
Spotlights around the perimeter allow you to evenly illuminate the room, create a modern and stylish interior

If you want to highlight individual zones, then it is worth considering the placement of decorative lighting in the intended places. As a rule, recessed spot products are intended for general lighting. For the local, decorative lighting is used from linear LED lamps or a flexible LED strip.

As for the required number of fixtures, here you will need the rules for the arrangement of residential premises. According to sanitary standards, the illumination of the bathroom should be at least 50lx.

Ceiling Light
According to the rules of 1 quarter. m. of area can be illuminated with an incandescent lamp with a power of 25 or 30 W, fluorescent 5-7 W or LED 3-4 W

You can calculate how many lamps are needed to illuminate a small bathroom with parameters of 2x3 m. To do this, you need:

  • 2-3 incandescent lamps with a total power of 150-180 W;
  • about 4 LEDs with an indicator of 18-24 W;
  • or a dozen energy-saving 30-40 watts.

Knowing the power, you can determine the total number of lamps and choose the method of their placement on the ceiling.

The nuances of installing fixtures in the bathroom

It is important when arranging lighting in the bathroom to take care of safety. To do this, it is necessary to verify that the wiring located in this room is grounded.

Another important point is to buy only models of fixtures with a sufficient level of protection. Do not forget that splashes when swimming can easily be inside electrical appliances, which poses serious problems.

The complexity of installing lighting fixtures for suspended ceilings depends on the type of ceiling structure. If the bathroom has a ceiling made of PVC panels or drywall, then installing a light source will not be difficult. The ceiling must be inserted into the hole for the lamp, and then press it with a spring.

Installation scheme for a spotlight
Installation diagram of the popular spotlight for the bathroom.The device is installed in a ceiling structure made of PVC or drywall panels

If the bathroom has suspended ceilings, then lighting fixtures designed for suspended structures will be required to equip the lighting. They are attached to rails or ceiling plates.

Installation diagram
The installation diagram of a compact spotlight on a stretch ceiling allows you to visually study the installation process of a lighting appliance in a bathroom

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The choice of lighting for the bathroom in the video:

The subtleties of self-installation of a spotlight are highlighted in the video:

An extensive range of fixtures is available on the market. They differ in design, functions, appearance, method of placement and installation.

To achieve the desired result in the bathroom, focusing on the most spectacular details, you will need to determine the number and power of the fixtures. When choosing them, it is important to comply with safety standards when choosing electrical equipment with a moisture protection level greater than IP44.

Please write comments, ask questions, post thematic photos in the block below. Tell us about how you chose lamps for arranging your own bathroom or a combined bathroom. Share the arguments that influenced your choice and the information that will be useful to visitors to the site.

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Visitors Comments
  1. Maria

    I have a bathroom measuring 6 * 3 m. I decided that two pendant lights with shades would be enough. The ceilings are quite high, so the built-in lamps would not fit, as they illuminate locally and the light would simply not be enough for the room. This is important for me, because I apply makeup in the bathroom. If I had this smaller room, I would choose the built-in lights.

  2. Fedor

    I bought exclusively closed fixtures into the bathroom, I often let in a lot of steam, and I don’t want something to close. I have a fairly large bathroom, fifteen meters, a sconce with hermetically sealed shades was hung near the mirror, and there was a LED ceiling lamp on the ceiling. In my opinion, this is the most suitable option for lighting in the bathroom.

  3. Svetlana

    We have one ceiling lamp in the bathroom with two 15W energy-saving lamps, so I do not have enough light, more powerful lamps somehow quickly burn out. The bathroom is quite cramped, about 3.5 square meters, but nevertheless it is necessary to change the situation with light. Now I'm thinking about a new design spotlights. I want to place them on the ceiling and near the mirror, and maybe also on the floor.

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