Height, Location and Installation of a Vanity Light

Side Lights

• According to This Old House, sconces or lights placed along the sides of the mirror give you an even amount of light to illuminate your face. Side mounting works best with a small mirror so the spacing between the two fixtures isn't excessive. The ideal spacing between the fixtures is between 36 and 40 inches. This eliminates shadows in the middle of the face by overlapping the light sources from either fixture. For the best lighting, position the side lights at approximately eye level. If you have people of varying heights, aim for roughly 66 inches off of the floor. Position the lights so they are an equal distance away from the center of the mirror for a balanced look.

Top Lights

• A fixture over your mirror is a more practical option if you have a wide mirror that doesn't allow for mounting lights on the side. This Old House recommends a lighting fixture of 150 watts with a spread out light source at least 24 inches across. This creates even lighting down over your face. An ideal mounting height is between 75 and 80 inches off of the floor. Center the light fixture over the vanity and mirror to create a balanced look.

Installation

• If you don't have experience with electrical work, the bathroom is a dangerous place to start. The presence of water makes the installation particularly essential to reduce the risk of shocks or electrocution. If you are replacing an old light fixture at the same position, the process is relatively straightforward. After shutting off the power source, test the wires with a neon circuit tester to ensure there is no power running through it. Disconnect the wires from the old fixture and connect them to the new fixture before mounting the fixture to the wall. Always consult with an electrician if you are unsure how to proceed rather than risk injury.

Considerations

• Measure the placement of the current vanity light to determine if it falls within the recommended range. This is the easiest option because you don't have to relocate the power source. Also consider the size of the current fixture if you plan to replace it. If you choose a smaller fixture, the wall behind the old light may have a different texture or paint color that you need to fix.