How to Get Bathroom Lighting Right: A Guide from Your Local Beacon Electricians

Bathroom lighting does more than brighten the space — it’s essential for functionality, comfort, and safety. Whether you're planning a full renovation or just updating a few key features, getting the lighting right can completely transform the way your bathroom looks and feels.

At Bailey Electrical & Security Services, we’re proud to be Beacon Lighting approved electricians, which means we have access to high-quality, compliant fittings and the expertise to install them safely and professionally throughout Perth and regional WA.

Here’s our practical guide to bathroom lighting — and how to make sure your new setup isn’t just stylish, but smart and safe too.

1. General Lighting: Your Everyday Foundation

General lighting provides overall illumination and is essential for visibility throughout the space. The most common types include ceiling-mounted lights, recessed downlights, and 3-in-1 units that combine light, heat, and extraction.

These fixtures offer balanced light with minimal shadows and should be your starting point when designing a layered lighting plan.

2. Task Lighting: Focus Where You Need It

Task lighting is all about enhancing visibility for activities like shaving, applying makeup, or skincare. The best options are wall-mounted lights placed beside or above the vanity mirror, helping to eliminate shadows and ensure even, functional illumination.

We recommend warm-white LED fittings for a flattering glow that’s easy on the eyes.

3. Accent Lighting: Mood and Ambience

Accent lighting brings depth and atmosphere to your bathroom. Think backlit mirrors, LED strip lights, or decorative wall sconces that highlight design features and elevate the space beyond the basics.

These elements make your bathroom feel more like a retreat — while still being practical.

4. Step and Night Lighting: Safety Meets Style

For added safety, especially at night, step lights or low-level motion-sensor lights are a great addition. These offer soft, non-intrusive lighting that guides movement and reduces the risk of accidents in the dark — without blasting your eyes with brightness.

The LiveWell range from Beacon Lighting offers several options ideal for this purpose.

5. Pendant Lighting: A Stylish Focal Point

Pendants are a bold, stylish choice — perfect for creating a feature moment in larger bathrooms. They're best suited to dry areas, such as over a freestanding bath or in the centre of the room.

Just make sure your pendant light has a minimum IP44 rating and is installed away from splash zones for safety.

6. Dimmer Switches: Lighting That Adjusts to You

Installing a dimmer switch lets you transition your bathroom lighting from bright and functional to soft and relaxing. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big difference in how the room feels.

We install IP-rated dimmers that are safe for use in damp areas — and ideal for setting the mood after a long day.

7. Understanding IP Ratings: Safety First

In any bathroom, Ingress Protection (IP) ratings are a non-negotiable. These tell you how well a light fitting is protected against moisture and water.

For most wet zones — near the shower, bath, or vanity — lights should have a minimum IP44 rating. Using anything below this in the wrong area could result in damage or risk. As licensed electricians, we’ll always guide you to the right choice for your space and install it to Australian standards.

8. The Power of Layered Lighting

The most effective bathroom lighting setup doesn’t rely on just one type of light. Instead, it combines general, task, and accent lighting for a layered effect that adapts to how you use the space throughout the day.

Layered lighting makes your bathroom more functional, visually appealing, and even increases its value — and we can help bring the whole plan together.

Ready to Upgrade Your Bathroom Lighting?

Whether you’re building new or refreshing an existing bathroom, our team at Bailey Electrical & Security Services can help you design and install the perfect lighting setup — safely and to spec.

We service Canning Vale, metro Perth, and regional WA, and we’re proud to work closely with Beacon Lighting to deliver reliable, stylish, and compliant solutions.

Contact us today to discuss your next project — or ask us for a lighting recommendation tailored to your space.