What kind of light goes above a shower?

When it comes to choosing lighting for a shower, there are a few key factors to consider. The type of light fixture, the brightness and color temperature of the bulb, and the size and layout of the shower area all play a role in finding the right lighting solution. Here are some quick answers to common questions about shower lighting to help guide your decision.

What are the different types of lights used above showers?

The most common types of lights used above showers include:

• Ceiling flush mount lights – These lights are installed directly into the ceiling above the shower. They provide direct overhead lighting.
• Track lighting – Tracks are installed on the ceiling and allow movable spotlights or pendant lights to be positioned above the shower.
• Recessed can lights – Can lights are installed into receptacles in the ceiling and create focused beams of light.
• Pendant lights – Pendant lights hang down from the ceiling on a cord or chain to position light directly over the shower area.
• Vanity lights – Vanity strip lighting runs horizontally along the top of the bathroom mirror/medicine cabinet to cast light onto the shower area.

What kind of bulb should be used in a shower light?

The most common bulbs used for shower lighting include:

• LED – LED bulbs last the longest and are the most energy efficient. They come in a range of bright white or soft white light.
• Incandescent – Incandescent bulbs provide a warm, yellowish light. However, they tend to have a shorter lifespan and be less energy efficient than LED.
• CFL – CFL (compact fluorescent) bulbs offer more energy savings than incandescent but do not last as long as LED. They also provide a harsher light.

LED bulbs are generally the best option due to their long life, energy efficiency, and flexible light color options. Make sure to choose a light color temperature that matches your preferences – bright white for an energizing shower or soft white for a more relaxed feel.

How bright should a shower light be?

Bathroom lighting experts generally recommend a minimum light level of 300 lumens per square foot. This equates to:

• 75 watts for a 25 square foot shower
• 100 watts for a 35 square foot shower
• 150 watts for a 50 square foot shower

You can achieve these wattages with multiple lower wattage bulbs or a single brighter bulb. Spreading out the lighting over several fixtures helps prevent harsh shadows and illuminate the entire shower space evenly.

Should shower lighting be warm or cool color temperature?

Shower lighting color temperature comes down to personal preference:

• Warm white light (2700K-3000K) – Provides a soft, relaxing ambiance that some find is perfect for starting or ending the day.
• Bright white light (3500K-4000K) – Gives an energizing feeling that helps wake you up and make sure grooming and tasks are easy to see.

Consider installing adjustable color temperature LEDs to allow changing the vibe from invigorating to relaxing with the flip of a switch.

Where should lights be placed in a shower?

Strategic light placement is key for adequate shower lighting. Guidelines include:

• Ceiling center – Central overhead lighting illuminates the entire space evenly.
• Ceiling front/back – Lights positioned over the shower entry and back provide clearer visibility while entering and exiting.
• Sides – Install lights or sconces on side walls to reduce shadows from the body.
• Corner – Diagonal ceiling lights reduce overall shadows.

In small showers, stick to 1-2 central ceiling flush mount or recessed lights. Larger showers can accommodate multiples lights and wall sconces for ideal visibility and ambiance.

How do I choose a waterproof shower light?

When selecting waterproof shower lighting, look for these specifications:

• IP65 rating – Properly rated for water resistance against sprays from multiple directions
• Lens/seal material – Polycarbonate, acrylic, silicone – resistant to heat and water damage over time
• Rust-resistant housing – Stainless steel, aluminum, brass – prevents corrosion from moisture
• Gaskets – Prevent water intrusion into light housing
• Vapor-tight electrical – No exposed wires or connections vulnerable to moisture

Waterproof LED lights designed explicitly for shower installation provide the most durable wet location lighting.

Is a shower light necessary or can an overhead bathroom light suffice?

While overhead bathroom lighting can provide basic illumination for a shower, dedicated shower lighting has some important advantages:

• Directed lighting – Focused directly on the shower area without lighting unused areas
• Brighter lighting – Can provide higher wattage/lumens needed for shower visibility
• Proper placement – Optimally positioned overhead rather than on a distant wall or corner
• Task lighting – Facilitates easier cleaning, grooming, and showering
• Safer entry/exit – Reduces risk of slips and falls from inadequate lighting

Bathroom ceiling lights alone often create shadows and uneven visibility. Shower-specific lighting provides the best solution for safety, function, and ambiance.

Should I install a shower light on a dimmer?

Installing shower lighting on a dimmer switch offers these benefits:

• Adjustable brightness – Set the perfect light level for shower tasks vs. relaxation time
• Accent lighting – Dim lights down for a subtle glow for bathing or shower ambiance
• Mood lighting – Create a spa-like environment with dimmable shower lights
• Night light mode – Use low-level lighting for middle of the night shower trips

Look for shower light trims and fixtures designed for use with electronic low-voltage dimmers. Use LED bulbs compatible with dimmers to ensure smooth, flicker-free operation.

Should shower lighting match other bathroom lighting?

It’s common to coordinate shower lighting with other bathroom lighting in terms of:

• Finish/color – Match metals like brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze
• Style – Keep fixtures like flush mounts or pendants consistent
• Light color – Use same LED color temperature (warm, bright, etc.) throughout

However, matching all the lighting is not a must. Feel free to be creative and mix things up. Many bathrooms use one style over the tub and a totally different type of lighting over the shower for visual interest.

Should I install a light inside the shower itself?

Lights installed inside the shower enclosure provide direct illumination:

• Overhead rain shower lights – Install flush with the ceiling or dangling
• Corner shelf lights – Add lighting to corner shelves inside the shower
• Niche lights – Illuminate soap, shampoo, etc. stored in in-shower niches
• Waterfall lights – Light up waterfalls and water features inside showers

Make sure any in-shower lighting is properly rated waterproof and reinforced to handle direct water exposure. This specialized lighting highlights features and adds unique style.

Can shower lights serve as heating lamps?

Some shower lighting fixtures also generate heat and can function as heating lamps, providing:

• Radiant warmth – Direct heating while showering, helpful for sore muscles
• Steamy ambiance – Help a shower feel more like a steam room
• Fast drying – Speed evaporation of water on shower walls and glass
• Fog control – Help reduce mirror fogging and mildew growth

Look for shower lights advertised as “heat lamps” or with built-in heating elements. Position the warming lights where they will radiate directly on the shower user.

How much does a shower light cost?

The cost of a shower light depends on the type, size, materials, and features:

Shower Light Type	Average Cost*
Flush mount ceiling light	$25 – $250
Track light heads	$25 – $150 each
Recessed can light	$15 – $75 each
Pendant light	$50 – $500+
Vanity light	$80 – $250
Heat lamp	$150 – $300
Waterproof niche light	$50 – $150

*Approximate costs for light fixture only – does not include wiring and installation.

Generally, basic flush mount LED ceiling lights start under $50. More complex pendants, heat lamps, and waterproof in-shower lighting run $100+. Work with an electrician and factor in installation costs as well.

Conclusion

When selecting shower lighting, consider light fixture types that fit your space, bright bulbs that provide ample illumination, strategic placement to reduce shadows, and waterproof construction. Cool white LEDs provide an invigorating effect while warm white lights set a more relaxing mood. Position adjustable lights on dimmers to create the perfect ambiance. Finally, specialized fixtures like heat lamps and waterproof niche lights add unique function and style. With the right lighting choice, your shower can become both a functional and relaxing oasis.