Bathroom lighting and LED mirrors: a practical guide

Lighting is often left until late in a renovation, but it changes how tiles, tapware and vanities look every day. Good bathroom lighting is layered, practical at the mirror and comfortable at night. Here is how to plan it.

Think in layers

• General light: ceiling downlights or a central fitting to light the whole room evenly.
• Task light: light at the mirror for shaving, makeup and skincare.
• Accent light: soft light in a niche, under a wall hung vanity or behind a mirror to create atmosphere.

Each layer can be on its own switch, so you can use bright light in the morning and a soft glow at night.

Why LED mirrors work so well

Downlights above the mirror can cast shadows on your face. An LED mirror lights your face evenly from the front. Many LED mirrors include features such as touch or sensor switches, adjustable colour temperature and demisters that keep the glass clear after a shower. Check the product details for each model.

If you also need storage, an LED shaving cabinet combines the mirror, light and cabinet in one. Read shaving cabinet or mirror? to decide.

Colour temperature

• Warm white: cosy and flattering, suits timber, stone looks and warm tapware such as brushed gold.
• Neutral white: closest to daylight, good for makeup and for showing true tile colours.
• Cool white: crisp, but can feel clinical in a bathroom.

Keep the colour temperature consistent across fittings so the room does not look patchy.

How lighting changes your tiles

Gloss tiles reflect light and can show glare from downlights, while matt tiles look softer. Textured and mosaic tiles come alive with light grazing across them from above or the side. Look at tile samples under the light you plan to use.

Plan power before tiling

LED mirrors, LED shaving cabinets, heated towel rails and exhaust fans all need power. Bathrooms have strict electrical rules about distances from water, so your licensed electrician needs to plan positions before the walls are sheeted and tiled. Bring the product specifications to your electrician so connections land in the right place.

Ventilation goes with lighting

An exhaust fan, ideally ducted outside, removes steam and protects grout, silicone and paint. Some people wire the fan to the light switch with a run on timer so it keeps running after you leave.

Night lighting

A low level light under a wall hung vanity or a dimmable LED mirror setting is helpful for night visits without waking everyone up.

Lighting small and windowless bathrooms

Many ensuites and small bathrooms have no window, so artificial light has to do all the work. Use a bright, even ceiling light, an LED mirror for the face, and light coloured tiles that bounce light around. Avoid a single downlight directly above your head at the mirror, which creates harsh shadows. Our small bathroom ideas have more tips.

Sizing an LED mirror

As with any mirror, choose a width equal to or slightly narrower than the vanity. On a double vanity, two LED mirrors centred over each basin give each person their own light. Make sure the bottom of the mirror clears the tapware.

Dimmers on the general lighting let you soften the room for a relaxing bath in the evening.

See LED mirrors in person

Compare LED mirrors and shaving cabinets at our Reservoir and Geelong showrooms. If you are renovating, book a free measure and ask us to quote installation by our qualified trades, a paid service.

Common questions

Do LED mirrors have demisters?

Many do. Check the product details for each mirror, as features vary between models.

What colour light is best for a bathroom?

Neutral white is closest to daylight and shows true colours. Warm white feels cosy and suits timber and warm finishes.

When should power for an LED mirror be installed?

Before the wall is sheeted and tiled, by a licensed electrician, so the connection lands behind the mirror.

Can I replace an ordinary mirror with an LED mirror?

Yes, but it needs a power connection installed by a licensed electrician, which may mean cutting into the wall behind the mirror.

Where can I see LED mirrors?

At our Reservoir and Geelong showrooms, where you can compare sizes and light settings.

Visit us or shop online

See the range in person at our showrooms: Geelong at 35A Ryrie St, Geelong VIC 3220, phone (03) 5223 2765, and Reservoir at 214 Broadway, Reservoir VIC 3073, phone (03) 9867 5051. Both are open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:30am to 3:00pm, and Sunday by appointment only.

Planning a renovation? Request a quote and a free measure, and ask us to include installation by our qualified trades if you would like it quoted. Prefer to shop from home? Order online with Australia-wide delivery, or pick up from either showroom, usually ready in 2 to 4 days.