The bathroom is the ideal place to relax and renew after a day of work or errands, which makes it important to choose the right lighting to support that purpose. Pendants are a popular choice for illuminating bathroom mirrors and other vanity areas because they can be easily adjusted to the perfect height for task or ambient light.

What to Look For

First, think about the overall aesthetic you’re going for. Pendants come in a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes, from rustic to industrial to sleek modern designs. Whether you’re looking for a sculptural or more minimal fixture, there’s sure to be something to suit your taste and budget.

When choosing a bathroom pendant, think about how it will serve as an accent piece in the room and how you’ll use it. Do you need a focal point to draw attention to a specific area or do you prefer a light that provides soft, ambient illumination?

You’ll also want to consider your fixtures’ wattage and the bulb color. The wattage of the bulb will determine how much energy it uses, while the light color is determined by the Kelvin (K) temperature scale. You’ll want to pick a bulb with a color temperature that best matches the rest of your bathroom’s decor and light fixtures.

In addition, you’ll need to consider the IP rating of your fixture, which refers to its splash-proof capabilities. This is especially critical if you’re hanging the light above your bathtub. If you choose to do so, make sure the ceiling is high enough to accommodate the fixture and that the bottom of the bulb is at least eight feet above the wall of the tub.

Which Finish to Choose

Brass and chrome are classic options for a bathroom’s lighting, but you can also find pendant lights in wood, glass, or even nickel finishes. Brass fixtures add a touch of warmth to a modern or contemporary bathroom, while chrome evokes a more traditional aesthetic that’s perfect for a period-inspired bathroom.

How to Hang a Bathroom Pendant

Once you have decided on a style, size and finish, it’s time to decide where to hang the light. It’s usually best to hang pendants at eye level, but you can also adjust them so that they cast light across the room. If you’re installing a large pendant over a tub, you should also consult with a licensed electrician to ensure the installation is safe.

How to Choose the Correct Bulb for Your Bathroom

Ideally, you’ll need to have four different types of lighting in your bathroom. These should be arranged to provide ambient, task, focused, and decorative illumination for the most complete lighting experience.

If you aren’t sure what kind of lighting you need, talk with an experienced designer. They can help you identify the type of light you need and help you select the best bulbs for your needs.

You can also opt for LED light bulbs, which are more environmentally friendly and use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. These can be used in both new and existing bathrooms. Moreover, they have a longer lifespan and are cooler to the touch.