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Choose the right bathtub lighting

Wandbeleuchtung im Badezimmer

Verena W.

"Lighting plays a crucial role in the design of your bathroom. It not only contributes to the atmosphere, but is also important from a practical point of view. Here are some tips on how to choose the best lighting for your bathtub."

LED strips in the bathroom
Large window next to the bathtub

Bathtub lighting - what you need to consider



First of all, it is important to choose a balanced mix of different light sources. Combine general lighting that illuminates the entire room with targeted lighting in specific areas. For example, the following are suitable ceiling lights are good for general lighting of the bathtub, while wall lights or mirror lights are ideal for illuminating specific areas, such as the washbasin. Make sure that the lighting in the mirror area is shadow-free and uniform.


This is particularly important for activities such as shaving or applying make-up. Here, for example, lights mounted to the left and right of the mirror can provide shadow-free illumination. Choosing the right light source is also important. LED lamps are an energy-efficient and long-lasting option. They provide a pleasant light and come in different color temperatures. For a warm, inviting light, choose lamps with a lower color temperature, while for daylight-like illumination, lamps with a higher color temperature are ideal for lighting your bathtub. You should also consider the moisture resistance of the lighting.


In the bathroom there is often high humidity, so it is important to choose luminaires that are especially suitable for humid environments. Finally, think about the possibility of adjusting the light intensity. Dimmable lights are a good choice to change the intensity of the light depending on the time of day and mood. By following these tips, you can create functional yet atmospheric lighting for your bathroom that meets both your aesthetic and practical needs.


"For optimal bathtub or whirlpool lighting in the wellness area, I recommend using dimmable LED lights with a warm color temperature to create a relaxing atmosphere and always ensure a high IP rating for water protection."

DA employee

Expert tip from Danielle A.

Lighting designer at skapetze®

Hanging lamp above the bathtub
Woman lying relaxed in the bathtub

Safety in the bathtub



When it comes to bathtub lighting, safety is paramount, as water and electricity can be a dangerous combination. Here are some important safety factors that you should consider:


Protection from water: Since the bathroom is a wet area, it is crucial that all lights, especially those near the bathtub, are waterproof. Pay attention to the protection rating (IP code) of the lighting. At least IP44 is recommended for areas near the bathtub, which means that the lights are splash-proof.


Low voltage: It is safer to use low voltage lights (e.g. 12 volts) for areas near the bath. Low-voltage lights reduce the risk of electric shock.


Earthing and RCD circuit breaker: Make sure your bathroom is properly earthed and has a residual current device (RCD). This switch immediately interrupts the flow of electricity at the slightest irregularity, which protects against electric shocks near the bathtub.


Professional installation: The installation of lights in the bathroom should always be carried out by qualified electricians. They will know the applicable regulations and ensure that all lights are installed safely and in accordance with local building regulations.


Heat generation: Make sure that the lighting does not generate too much heat, especially in enclosed spaces such as a bathroom. LED lights are usually a good choice as they generate less heat than conventional light bulbs.


Materials and quality: Choose high-quality materials and lights that are specifically designed for use in humid environments. Good materials and workmanship reduce the risk of corrosion and electrical problems.


Emergency stop switch: It is a good idea to have an easily accessible emergency stop switch for the bathroom lighting. This makes it possible to quickly disconnect the power supply in an emergency.


Regular check: Regular maintenance and checking the lighting for damage or wear and tear is important to maintain safety around the bath. By paying attention to these safety factors, you can ensure that your bath lighting is not only aesthetically pleasing, but above all safe.


Pendant lights: The new bathtub lighting



Pendant lights Bathtub pendant lights can be a stylish and functional lighting option for bathrooms. They offer a unique combination of aesthetics and benefitsthat can enrich the bathroom experience. First of all, pendant bathtub lights bring a touch of elegance to your bathroom. They are available in a variety of styles, from modern and minimalist designs to opulent and traditional shapes, so you can easily find a light that suits your personal style and bathroom décor.


This type of bath lighting can serve as a central design element and add character to the room. Aside from aesthetics, pendant lights also offer practical lighting benefits. They can be targeted over specific areas such as the bath or a vanity unit to provide focused lighting that is ideal for relaxing baths or morning routines. The height of the pendant light is often adjustable, meaning you can tailor the lighting to your exact needs. However, it is important when choosing pendant lights for the bathroom, safety aspects to be taken into account. Make sure that the lights are suitable for use in damp areas. 


When selecting pendant bathtub lights for the bathroom, however, it is very important to consider safety aspects in particular. Make sure that the lights are suitable for use in damp areas. Proximity to water sources requires luminaires with appropriate protection ratings (IP rating) to ensure that they are protected against moisture and splashing water. You should also consider the placement carefully. Your pendant luminaires should be installed at a sufficient distance from water sources to avoid safety risks. 


It is also advisable to place them so that they are not in the way during daily use, especially in smaller bathrooms. The integration of dimmers can provide additional flexibility by allowing you to adjust the light intensity according to your mood and time of day. This is particularly useful for creating a relaxing atmosphere in the evening. Overall, pendant lights are an excellent choice for your bathroom, enhancing both style and functionality. With the right choice and installation, they can transform the bathroom into an elegant and pleasant space.


s.luce Orb glass ball pendant light next to the bathtub
s.luce Orb glass ball pendant light next to the bathtub

What technical factors do I need to consider for my bathtub lighting?



When choosing the right bathtub lighting, terms such as CRI, lumen, Kelvin and lux are key, as they describe important aspects of light quality and intensity. Lumen measures the amount of light emitted by a light source. For bathtub lighting, it is important to choose an appropriate lumen rating to ensure sufficient brightness without being too dazzling. A higher lumen rating means more light, which is ideal for general lighting purposes. However, for a relaxing atmosphere around the bath, a lower lumen rating may be preferred.


Kelvin indicates the color temperature of the light and influences the perception of the lighting. Lower Kelvin values produce a warmer, yellowish light that is ideal for a cozy and calming environment, perfect for long baths. Higher Kelvin values produce a cooler, bluish light that is refreshing and invigorating, but may not be the best choice for relaxation purposes.


CRI (Color Rendering Index) is a measure of how accurately a light source renders colors compared to natural light. A high CRI value is desirable, especially in areas such as the bathroom where tasks such as applying make-up or shaving require accurate color rendering. For lighting around the bathtub, a high CRI value can help colors and textures in the room appear more vibrant and natural.


Lux measures the amount of light that hits a surface and is an indicator of the illuminance in a particular area. In a bathroom, it is important to have a balanced lux figure that provides enough light for safety and functionality without being uncomfortably bright. Especially near the bathtub, the light should be soft and inviting to create a relaxing environment.


In summary, when choosing lighting for the bathtub, it is important to find a balance between functionality and relaxation. Considering lumens, Kelvin, CRI and lux can help you find the optimal lighting solution for your bathroom that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. By keeping these aspects in mind, you can create an atmosphere that is both calming and functional.


s.luce Orb glass ball pendant light next to the bathtub

Creating the optimal atmosphere in the bathroom by your bathtub



The lighting around the bathtub plays a crucial role in creating an atmosphere of relaxation and well-being. It not only contributes to the aesthetics of the bathroom, but also significantly influences how we experience this intimate space. Well thought-out lighting can transform the bathing experience into a true oasis of calm. A key element of bathtub lighting is creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Soft, diffused light that does not dazzle is ideal for long, relaxing baths. This can be achieved through the use of indirect lighting, such as wall lights or built-in ceiling spots, which emit a soft light while providing stylish accents near your bathtub.


Another way to create a calming environment is to use dimmable lights. With this option, you can adjust the intensity of the light to suit your mood and needs - bright light for cleansing and dimmer light for a relaxing bath. For those who prefer a modern yet practical solution, we offer LED strips offer an excellent way to illuminate the bathtub in style. They can be installed under the bath or along the walls to create a unique and personalized lighting experience. LED lights are not only energy efficient, but also offer a wide range of color temperatures so you can choose the color of the light to suit your mood.


Safety is another important aspect of lighting around the bathtub. As this is a wet area, all luminaires should be selected and installed in accordance with safety standards for wet environments. The correct IP (Ingress Protection) rating is crucial to ensure that the lighting is protected against water ingress. In conclusion, well-designed bath lighting should strike a balance between functionality, safety and aesthetics. By choosing the right lights for the bath and considering the specific requirements of a bathroom, you can create a space that is not only practical and safe, but also an oasis of well-being where you can relax and escape the stresses of everyday life.


LED strips on the wall next to the bathtub
Fire in the fireplace next to the bathtub

Illuminated niches are a trend in interior design



Illuminated niches next to the bathtub are an elegant and functional solution to enhance the bathroom both practically and aesthetically. This type of bathtub lighting combines decorative elements with practical benefits and creates an atmosphere that is both calming and modern.


First of all, illuminated niches next to the bathtub offer added aesthetic value. They serve as stylish design elements that enhance the overall appearance of the bathroom. Whether in a minimalist, linear form or in an organic, curved design, these niches can emphasize the architecture of the room and add a touch of luxury. From a practical point of view, illuminated niches not only provide an additional source of light, but also storage space. They are ideal for storing bath products, candles or other decorative elements that contribute to relaxation.


Bathtub lighting highlights these items and makes them part of the décor while keeping them easily accessible. The choice of lighting in these niches is crucial. Soft, indirect light is best for creating a relaxing and calming atmosphere. LED strips are a popular choice as they are energy efficient and available in different color temperatures, making it possible to change the color of the light depending on the mood or desired ambiance.


Safety is also an important consideration for illuminated alcoves. As they are located near the bathtub, they should be equipped with lights that are suitable for humid environments. An appropriate protection rating (IP rating) ensures that the lighting is safe against the ingress of water. Illuminated niches next to the bath can significantly enhance the bathing experience. Not only do they provide additional lighting and practical storage space, they also help to create an atmosphere of calm and relaxation. With the right planning and implementation, they can become a highlight in any bathroom.


Bathtub next to the window with natural light
Window next to the bathtub

Bathtub lighting in the wellness area



If you have equipped your wellness area with a bathtub or whirlpool, lighting plays a key role in creating a relaxing and calming atmosphere. The right lighting can transform your spa area into a private oasis of calm where you can switch off and unwind.


Let's start with the bathtub lighting. Here it is important to find a balance between functionality and relaxation. Soft, indirect light is ideal for creating a calm and pleasant atmosphere. For example, you can use dimmable LED lights or built-in ceiling spots to adjust the light to your needs. Another popular option is LED strips, which are installed under the bathtub and emit a soft, shimmering light. For the hot tub area, special lighting that can withstand water is essential. Many modern hot tubs already offer built-in LED lighting systems that are not only safe but also energy efficient.


These systems often offer a choice of colors so you can change the lighting to suit your mood. Colored light can have a particularly relaxing and therapeutic effect by creating a calming environment. Think about safety too. Lighting near water sources must meet the appropriate safety standards. Make sure that all lights have an appropriate IP (Ingress Protection) rating to protect against moisture and water splashes.


The importance of lighting in the rest of the wellness area should not be forgotten. Soft, gentle lighting can help to create a holistic, calming atmosphere. You could also consider using a combination of different light sources to highlight different areas of the room.


In summary, the right lighting for bathtubs and whirlpools in the wellness area is not just a question of style, but also of functionality and safety. With well-designed lighting, you can create an environment that is not only beautiful and inviting, but also invites you to relax and unwind in your bathtub.


Recessed ceiling lights in the bathroom

Conclusion - How to do everything right!



In conclusion, lighting in the bathroom, especially around the bathtub and whirlpool, is essential to creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Choosing luminaires with the right lumen output, color temperature and IP rating is crucial to achieving a balance between aesthetics, functionality and safety. Indirect, dimmable light promotes a calming environment, while consideration of safety standards remains essential. With carefully chosen lighting, the bathroom becomes a true oasis of well-being.


If you are still undecided about how you want to implement the lighting, why not make an appointment with the lighting planners at skapetze®, for a personal consultation and the development of a individual lighting concept and the development of an individual lighting concept.


You are also welcome to visit us on site in Simbach am Inn at our light studio come and visit us.


If you already have a concrete idea of how the lights should look in your home, we can help you turn this idea into reality - our in-house workshop makes it possible.