Modern Bathroom Vanity Lights to Update Your Space
Bathrooms can feel like they need a full remodel to look better, but that’s not true! Small changes, like updating light fixtures, can make a huge difference. It’s easier than you might think and can instantly transform the space. Over the years, I’ve tackled everything from full renovations to budget-friendly makeovers. Now, I’m sharing my favorite modern bathroom vanity lights, along with some quick tips for choosing the perfect size and style.
For this small bathroom remodel, I used a brass cone light fixture to add some warmth to the black and white elements. I also loved the mix of shapes with the cone light, rounded mirror, and tile lines. I know there are some questions out there about bathroom lights, I’ve had many of the same ones myself!
After several bathroom remodels and upgrades, I’ve gathered a lot of information and wanted to share all that here.
How Big Should Light Be Over the Vanity?
With so many options out there, you might be wondering how big the light fixture should be over the bathroom vanity. Every bathroom is different, so you have to keep in mind space and needs. There are a few guidelines which makes it easier to choose bathroom lights:
- Not wider than the actual vanity cabinet
- The fixture length should be about 75% of the width of the cabinet
- Lights look best centered over the bathroom mirror
I like to use painter’s tape in advance to get a visual idea of the lighting space. I measure the cabinet and then see what is about 75″ of that. I mark off the middle and then tape out what the approximate length should be.
How Many Bathroom Lights Over the Mirror?
Since bathroom lights not only come in a variety of lengths, they also have a different quantity of light bulb options. For some spaces something like two or three bulbs won’t make much of a difference. But again, there are some general guidelines to make it easy:
| Bathroom Vanity Cabinet Width | Ideal Vanity Light Width (approximate) | How Many Lights |
| 24″ | at least 18″ | 2-3 |
| 30″ | 23″ | 2-3 |
| 36″ | 27″ | 3 |
| 42″ | 32″ | 3- 4 |
| 48″ | 36″ | 4 or two separate lights fixture over double sinks |
| 60″ | up to 48″ | 5-6 or two separate lights fixture over double sinks preferable |
Should vanity lights face up or down?
Whether vanity lights should face up or down depends on your bathroom’s layout and lighting needs. Most fixtures have the capability of being installed either way – I always double check before purchasing. Sometimes, I find it looks or works better based on the space. In my budget bathroom makeover shown above, I preferred the shades facing downwards even though the website image showed it the other way.
Downward-facing lights give focused lighting, making them perfect for tasks like applying makeup or shaving. Upward-facing lights offer a softer, more diffused glow, great for creating ambient light and reducing harsh shadows.
Does Vanity Light Need to Match the Faucet?
Nope! Absolutely not. The days of the exact same finish for every single little piece of hardware are over. So long. Farewell. Good riddance!
In fact, mixing hardware finishes is a great way to add interest and depth to a space. Choosing light fixtures that complement other hardware is the way to go. You can read more about How to Mix Hardware Finishes in my post, but I personally love a good matte black and brushed brass.
How to Install a Bathroom Vanity Light?
You might be wondering how tricky replacing a bathroom fixture is -well it’s usually easier than it first seems. I actually did it on my own! To give a general idea, they typically just screws into the wall. So it involves turning off the circuit, removing the old light fixture base and undoing the wires. Then you connect the new wires and attach the new fixtures.
I installed a new light fixture for a really quick and easy bathroom upgrade by following a step by step vanity installation tutorial. Of course, if in doubt, call an electrician.
Options for an Easy Upgrade
I’ve carefully curated my favorite vanity lights with sleek, modern designs that instantly elevate any bathroom. These picks are perfect for a quick, stylish upgrade without a full remodel!
Favorite Vanity Lights
- Black Matte Vanity Light Fixture – available in a few different finish combinations
- Brushed Silver 3 Light Cone Sconce – for the stainless steel look
- Beech Wood Bathroom Lighting – great way to add warmth to a space
- Antique Brass Circle Bathroom Light – perfect for mid century or art deco vibes
- Black Vanity Light with 3 Bulbs – also available with more lights, I used this glass shade fixture in one of my bathrooms
- Bathroom Lighting with Cone Shade – lots of finishes to choose from
- Gold Vanity Light Bar – perfect for small bathrooms
- Matte White Modern Bathroom Vanity Light – shades available in lots of cool colors
Tips
- Many lights can be installed with shades either up or down, consider what works best for the space and mirror interference
- Bathroom vanity lights should be 3/4″ the width of the vanity cabinet to look proportional
- Choose a lamp shade style that contrasts other elements. If everything is squared, use rounded lights. If there’s a circle mirror, go for more lines
Final Thoughts
I hope this helps you choose bathroom light fixtures over the mirror and answer common questions. Once you’ve made that easy upgrade be sure to use the correct type of bulb. You can read more about my thoughts on Warm Light vs Cool Light for the home.
And still not sure about changing the vanity light? Well, it’s my made my list of one of the Top Home Updates Under $200 so check out that post for more ideas. Plus, for additional bathroom upgrades, check out my post on Bathroom Mirror Update Ideas.
