How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity Light: Size, Height and Ratings
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Quick answer: choose a vanity light about 75% as wide as your mirror, mount it 6 to 8 inches above the top of the mirror, and make sure it's rated for damp locations.
How wide should a vanity light be?
- Aim for about 75% of your mirror's width. Anywhere from 70% to 80% looks right.
- Slim LED bars can go toward 80%. Fixtures with large glass shades look better closer to 70%.
| Mirror width | Vanity light width |
|---|---|
| 24 in | About 18 in |
| 30 in | About 22 in |
| 36 in | About 27 in |
| 48 in | About 36 in |
| 60 in and wider | Two lights, one over each sink, about 24 to 28 in each |
How high to mount it
- Above the mirror: 6 to 8 inches above the top edge of the mirror.
- Sconces beside the mirror: centre them about 60 to 65 inches above the floor. Raise them 2 to 3 inches if the main users are over 6 feet tall.
Damp-rated or wet-rated?
- Damp-rated: right for the vanity and the rest of the bathroom away from the shower and tub.
- Wet-rated: needed for a light over a tub or inside a shower, where water can reach it.
- Dry-rated: best kept out of bathrooms with a shower or tub.
You'll find the rating in the technical details on each product page. Your electrician can confirm what the Ontario Electrical Safety Code requires for your bathroom.
How bright?
For a single-sink vanity, aim for about 1,500 to 3,000 lumens in total.
Still not sure?
Bring your measurements to our showroom at 10 Western Ave, Units 11–13, Orillia, Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 6 PM, or call us at 705-350-2125. We're happy to help. You can also browse vanity lights, wall sconces and bathroom lighting online, with free delivery on most Ontario orders of $99 or more, or free pickup in Orillia.