In a bathroom, everything depends on how close you are to the water. Inside the shower tray or the bath, you need a fitting rated IPX7 running on extra-low voltage. Above the shower or bath and within 60 cm of it, aim for IPX4 at least, which in practice means IP44. Elsewhere in the room, the rules are more relaxed. The rest of this article explains how to read an IP rating, how to locate the zones and how to choose each fitting.
What does the IP rating of a light fitting mean?
The IP rating (for “Ingress Protection”) shows how well a device resists solid objects and water. It is made up of two digits:
- The first digit (0 to 6) covers solids: 2 means you cannot push a finger inside, 4 that no object larger than 1 mm can get in, 5 and 6 protect against dust.
- The second digit (0 to 8) covers water: this is the one that matters in a bathroom.
- The letter X replaces a digit that has not been tested. An IPX4 fitting is protected against splashing water, with no rating for dust.
| Second digit | Protection against water | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | None | Dry room (IP20) |
| 4 | Water splashing from any direction | Around the shower and the bath |
| 5 | Water jets | Shower with jets, outdoors |
| 7 | Temporary immersion | Inside the shower tray or the bath |
What are the zones of a bathroom?
A bathroom is divided into areas called zones, measured from the shower and the bath. The washbasin does not create a zone. This layout comes from the international standard IEC 60364-7-701; in France, the NF C 15-100 standard adopts it (and calls the zones “volumes”), and most European countries apply similar rules.
| Zone | Where is it? | Minimum IP | Fittings allowed (France) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Inside the bath or shower tray | IPX7 | Safety extra-low voltage (SELV 12 V) only |
| 1 | Above zone 0, up to 2.25 m from the floor | IPX4 (IPX5 with jets) | SELV 12 V only |
| 2 | 60 cm around zone 1, up to 2.25 m from the floor | IPX4 | SELV 12 V or Class II |
| Outside the zones | The rest of the room | None required, IPX4 recommended | Class I, Class II or SELV |
For a walk-in shower without a tray, zone 1 extends 1.20 m around the fixed shower head. The exact rules vary from country to country: always have the location checked by your electrician.
Practical tip: before choosing your fittings, mark a line on the floor with masking tape 60 cm from the edge of the shower and the bath. Any light point planned beyond that line is outside the zones; inside it, it is in zone 2 and must be IPX4.
Which light fitting above the shower or bath?
In zones 0 and 1, only dedicated 12 V fittings are suitable, with a transformer installed outside the zones. These are technical products, often recessed spotlights, best left to an electrician.
In zone 2, next to the shower, you need a fitting that is IPX4 and Class II. The product page for the Valena wall light lists it as IP44 and suitable for bathroom zone 2. This metal box, in bronze brown or black, comes in four sizes from 10 × 10 cm to 26 × 26 cm, and lights both upwards and downwards with two G9 bulbs (not included).
How should you light the mirror?
The mirror is often outside the zones, unless the basin is less than 60 cm from the shower. It is where you need the most precise light, for shaving or putting on make-up.
Two wall lights, one on each side
This is the arrangement that lights the face best, with no shadows under the eyes. Centre them 1.60 to 1.70 m from the floor, as explained in our article How high should you mount a wall light? A small wall light such as Halixia (10 × 12.5 cm, IP54, head adjustable through 180°) comes in five finishes, from gold to black, to match your taps. If your taps are gold, also take a look at our brass and gold lighting.
One wall light above the mirror
If the wall only allows a single light point, choose an elongated model in proportion to the width of the mirror. The Quelasca light bar, rated IP65, measures 60, 80 or 100 cm and is only 3.6 cm high. For adjustable light, the Branxia wall light (IP65, dimmable, 30 cm wide) is operated by remote control.
Which ceiling light for a bathroom?
On the ceiling, above 2.25 m from the floor, you are outside the zones. Steam still rises, though: above the shower, stick to an IPX4 fitting. Away from the water and in a well-ventilated room, an IP20 ceiling light is allowed outside the zones, near the door for example.
- Small bathroom: a compact globe such as the Elegia ceiling light (Ø 15 cm, clear, amber, grey or white glass) is enough. It is IP20: place it away from the shower.
- Recessed spotlights: the Kadro spotlights, which are dimmable, are also IP20. Keep them for areas outside the zones.
- Large bathroom: use several light sources rather than a single powerful ceiling light. In the evening, one wall light and some dimmed light are enough.
Which colour temperature should you choose?
For the mirror, stay between 3,000 and 4,000 K: a warm to neutral white that renders skin tones faithfully. If possible, choose a colour rendering index (CRI) of 90 or more. For a relaxing bath, 2,700 to 3,000 K is enough. Our guide Which colour temperature to choose, room by room covers each room in detail.
Common mistakes
- Confusing IP44 with Class II. The IP rating measures water resistance, the class measures electrical insulation. In zone 2, the French standard requires both.
- Thinking the washbasin creates a zone. Only the shower and the bath define the zones. A mirror away from the shower is outside the zones.
- Fitting an IP20 spotlight above the shower. Even on the ceiling, steam and splashes end up reaching it. Choose IPX4 at least.
- Lighting the mirror from above only. A single source on the ceiling casts shadows under the eyes and chin. Add light at face height.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between IP44 and IP65?
An IP44 fitting resists splashing water and objects larger than 1 mm. An IP65 fitting is dust-tight and resists water jets. Both are suitable for bathroom zone 2, provided they are also Class II.
Can you put an IP20 wall light in a bathroom?
Yes, outside the zones, more than 60 cm from the shower and the bath, in a well-ventilated room. For peace of mind, an IPX4 model is still preferable near the basin.
Where can you find the IP rating of a light fitting?
It is shown on the product page and on the fitting's label. On our site, you will find it in the technical specifications. If no rating is given, assume the fitting is not protected against water.
Is an outdoor light suitable for a bathroom?
Often, yes: outdoor models are generally IP44 or IP65. Just check the electrical class and the quality of the light, which is sometimes too cool for a mirror. The rating is always listed on the product page.
To remember: IPX7 and 12 V in the tub, 12 V and IPX4 above it up to 2.25 m, IPX4 and Class II within 60 cm around it, and more freedom elsewhere. Around the mirror, two wall lights at 1.60 to 1.70 m in 3,000 to 4,000 K. To choose your model, browse our bathroom lighting, our wall lights and our ceiling lights.