Bathroom Lighting, Bulbs and Fittings for Every Bathroom Zone

Bathroom lighting in the UK is governed by BS 7671, which divides the bathroom into zones with different IP rating requirements depending on proximity to water. Dulora's bathroom lighting range covers IP-rated bulbs for wet area compliance, vanity bulbs for mirror and basin lighting at CRI 95+ for natural skin tone rendering, bathroom ceiling lights and flush-mount fittings, and bathroom wall sconces.

For wet area zones requiring low-voltage fittings, Dulora's G4 12V range G4 Bulbs provides BS 7671 compliant options. For vanity mirror lighting, CRI 95+ tubular or candle bulbs provide the colour accuracy that makes skin tones appear natural. See Tubular Bulbs and Candle Bulbs.

All wet area installations must be carried out by a qualified electrician carrying out Part P notifiable work, who will confirm zone classification and IP rating requirements.

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Bathroom Lighting: Getting the Zones, the CRI, and the Atmosphere Right

What are the bathroom lighting zones under BS 7671?

BS 7671 divides the bathroom into zones based on distance from water sources. Zone 0 is inside the bath or shower tray. Zone 1 is the area directly above the bath or shower to 2.25m height. Zone 2 extends 0.6m beyond Zone 1. Each zone has minimum IP rating requirements for fittings installed within it.

In Zone 0 and Zone 1, extra-low-voltage (typically 12V) fittings are required. In Zone 2, mains-voltage fittings are permitted if they meet the minimum IP rating. Any work in bathroom zones must be carried out by a qualified electrician carrying out Part P notifiable work.

Why does CRI matter more in a bathroom than anywhere else?

The bathroom vanity mirror is where you assess skin tone, apply makeup, and evaluate how you look at close range under artificial light. At CRI 80, skin tones can appear washed out or slightly yellow. At CRI 95+, skin tones appear natural and accurate, which is the entire purpose of a mirror light.

For vanity mirror applications, CRI 95+ in Soft White 3000K or Warm White 2700K provides the best combination of colour accuracy and comfortable warmth.

Which bulbs suit a bathroom vanity bar?

Tubular (T25) bulbs are designed for multi-socket vanity bars where the slim elongated form fills each socket proportionally. Candle (C35) and fancy round (G45) bulbs suit single-socket vanity sconces. For all vanity applications, CRI 95+ and Soft White 3000K or Warm White 2700K are the recommended specifications.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Bathroom Lighting

• Do I need low-voltage bulbs for my bathroom?
• It depends on the zone. Zones 0 and 1 (inside and directly above the bath or shower) require extra-low-voltage fittings. Zone 2 and beyond can use mains-voltage fittings with appropriate IP ratings. A qualified electrician will confirm zone classification.
• What CRI is recommended for bathroom vanity lighting?
• CRI 95+ is recommended for vanity mirror applications. At this level, skin tones appear natural and accurate.
• Are Dulora bathroom bulbs certified for UK use?
• Yes. All carry CE/UKCA certification. Wet area fittings comply with BS 7671 zone requirements when correctly installed by a qualified electrician carrying out Part P notifiable work.