Choosing The Right Bathroom Vanity Lighting

When remodeling your bathroom, you sometimes forget that the proper lighting is vital to the functionality of this much-used room. Bathroom vanity lighting can improve the looks and atmosphere  in such a way that you will consider your bathroom your own personal spa retreat.

As you are choosing vanity lighting, there are many things to consider. The vanity is one part of the bathroom that everyone who walks into the room takes notice of. It is almost as central to the room as the toilet! You do so many things standing in front of that vanity, and so do your guests.

Complement The Decor

Therefore, you should strive to have the lighting not only complement the decor of the rest of the room, but also illuminate the area around the mirror sufficiently so that any personal grooming that is accomplished in this area won't be done in either too much brightness or in shadows. Many bathrooms have only artificial light, so it is crucial to have good lighting from another source.

You can find bathroom vanity lighting in a host of styles, designs, and finishes. The most basic and generic of vanity lights comsists of one light fastened above the mirror. Most people opt for more light than this, choosing a row of lights above the mirror, or even above, below, and on either side of it. Of course, this depends on what size your vanity base is.

Avoiding Shadows

You can choose from wall fixtures and sconces, or medicine chests with the lighting built into them. Do not depend on a ceiling fixture that is installed directly over the mirror for vanity lighting. It will cast shadows on the face of anyone who uses the mirror, which can make shaving and other grooming tasks difficult.

You also want to be careful that your vanity lights are not so bright that they create a glare. Position the light fixtures in such a way as to avoid this. Also, when choosing shades for your lights, remember to choose a type that will diffuse the light in order to prevent too much glare.

Take measurements of the space where you intend to install your vanity lights so that you can be certain whatever style you choose will fit. In order to be bright enough, vanity lighting fixtures should be capable of handling at least 150 watts of electricity. Any less than this, and you'll be stuck with a very dim light in your bathroom!

Best Places To Find Them

Where to look for bathroom vanity lighting? There are specialty showrooms in most large cities where you can browse among many lighting choices. Or, most home centers will have a good selection of lighting fixtures and supplies. Finally, you can go shopping on the Internet to find almost any kind of vanity lighting you can envision.

If you should happen to have two vanities in your master bathroom, you should purchase lighting for each, and not try to make do with one light positioned in between them. Make sure that the vanity lights you choose are the same model and style in order to insure a balanced look.

It's a smart plan to read and learn as much as possible about bathroom vanity lighting before you make your final selection. Planning ahead will yield practical, yet elegant lighting for your bathroom.

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