With a huge range of vanity styles, colours, sizes and brands on the market, it can be hard to know where to look first. You'll need to consider aesthetics but there are some practical aspects too. While most vanity lights will provide enough light for shaving or makeup routines, they certainly aren't all equal.
Here are some of our key considerations as well as our top vanity picks to get you started on your journey.
IP Ratings
IP ratings aren't the most exciting topic but they are critical for any light fitting that may come into contact with water or moisture. If your vanity is above the bathroom sink, this is especially important. IP ratings are a measure of how resistant the light is to liquids. We recommend IP54 rated fittings for above the bathroom sink. You can read more about IP ratings for your bathroom in our IP guide.
Globe/ Bulb Colour
An important factor when choosing bathroom lighting is the colour temperature. For the most natural looking light, we generally recommend choosing a cool white, 4000k. This is the ideal glow for facial routines, especially doing makeup, and we often have customers reiterate this point.
Positioning and style
Most vanity lights will be positioned on, beside or above the mirror. The choice is generally down to design preference but there are a few points worth considering:
- Vanity cupboards - if your mirror is part of a cupboard, consider which way the door will open and ensure it will not hit your light. For example, an orb light may be damaged if positioned next to a cupboard.
- The depth of your mirror - it's important that the light does not cast a shadow onto the mirror. If your vanity isn't flush to the wall, choose a fixture that also protrudes or overhangs the mirror for the best results. This is often the case with more traditional styles of mirror.
- Who will be using the mirror - if you have growing family members, or anyone particularly tall or short, consider them in your vanity selection and positioning. There is a standard height that vanity mirrors (and lights) are placed at but it is worth thinking about your individual household.
Fixture Colour
There are a wide variety of colours available but the most common colour is chrome, which can easily match most bathroom decors. If you're unsure, this is a good option, or you can get in touch with our design team who will be able to advise.
Customisation
A guarantee to make your bathroom lighting a thing of beauty is custom made LED strip lights and profile to fit perfectly on or behind your vanity mirror. We specialise in LED Strip lighting so it's a style we are very familiar with and know works incredibly well, with measurements to the millimetre for a sleek finish. The cost will generally work out the same as a vanity light, if not cheaper, so why not! If you are interested in custom vanity lights, email us on design@thelightingoutlet.com.au with the measurements or fill out our quote form and we'll get back to you with more information.
Discover more vanity lights online or speak to our team for design or product recommendations.
