As of: September 2026 · for Germany and Austria

Bathroom lighting: light colour, brightness and protection zones

Good bathroom lighting has three layers: bright general lighting for the room, shadow-free lighting at the mirror, and some accent lighting for atmosphere. There is also a special feature not found elsewhere in the home: around the bath and shower, protection zones apply where only suitable lights are permitted.

Here you will find light colours, recommended brightness levels, and the protection zones for Germany and Austria.

Julien El-Bahy, bazuba headquartersProfessionally reviewed by Julien El-Bahy, bazuba headquartersStatus: 25 September 2026 · Protection zones according to DIN VDE 0100-701 and ÖVE/ÖNORM E 8001-4-701
Badbeleuchtung Beleuchtung Bad Licht Badezimmer

In short

Plan three layers of lighting in the bathroom: warm white ambient lighting for the room, bright neutral white light from the front at the mirror, and dimmable accent lighting. Near the bath and shower, each luminaire must have at least protection class IPX4.

Light colour2,700 to 4,000 KWarm white for the room, neutral white at the mirror to ensure skin and make-up appear naturalSelect light colour
Brightnessaround 500 luxat the mirror; for the rest of the room, around 200 lux is usually sufficientReference values per layer
Protection classfrom IPX4in protection zones 1 and 2 around the bath and shower, in the bath itself IPX7The protection zones

Safety: Permanently installed luminaires in the bathroom must only be installed by a qualified electrician, both in Germany and Austria. For a bathroom renovation with bazuba, this is carried out by an electrical partner company. How it works

Reference values for residential bathrooms, not standard values. As of: 25 September 2026. Professionally reviewed by Julien El-Bahy (bazuba headquarters).

The three lighting layers in the bathroom

A single ceiling light is rarely sufficient. It casts shadows on your face when you stand in front of the mirror and makes the bathroom uncomfortably bright in the evening. It is better to separate lighting by task:

LevelPurposeReference valueSuitable luminaires
Ambient lightingUniform brightness throughout the room, without glarearound 200 lux2,700 to 3,000 KCeiling or recessed lights with wide, diffuse light
Mirror lightingShaving, applying make-up, brushing teeth: shadow-free facearound 500 luxaround 4,000 K, CRI from 90Luminaires to the left and right or all around the mirror, mirror cabinet with lighting
Accent lightingAtmosphere when bathing, orientation at nightdimmedwarm whiteLED strips in niches, indirect lighting, night light with motion sensor

Lux indicates how much light reaches a surface. The values are typical planning guidelines for residential bathrooms; there are no regulations for private bathrooms.

Light colour and colour rendering

The light colour is specified in Kelvin (K). The lower the value, the warmer and more yellow the light appears. Warm white (2,700 to 3,000 K) creates a cosy atmosphere and is suitable for general lighting and bathing. Neutral white (around 4,000 K) appears clear and fresh and is ideal for the mirror. Cool white light above 5,300 K usually feels cold and uncomfortable in the bathroom.

Equally important is the colour rendering, indicated as the Ra or CRI value. At the mirror, it should be 90 or higher, otherwise skin and make-up will look dull. This information is usually found on the packaging or in the data sheet.

Dimmable or with adjustable light colour

Dimmable lights turn the same bathroom into a bright workspace in the morning and a relaxing space in the evening. Lights with adjustable light colour combine both in one fitting. It is important that the light and dimmer are compatible, otherwise the light may flicker or buzz.

New lighting and a new bathroom in one go?No demolition, with an electrical partner company and a single point of contact. Free inspection in Germany and Austria.

Protection zones: which light is allowed where

Special rules apply around the bath and shower: in Germany according to DIN VDE 0100-701, in Austria according to ÖVE/ÖNORM E 8001-4-701. Both divide the room in the same way:

AreaWhereLuminaires
Zone 0the interior of the bathtub or shower trayIPX7, only with safety extra-low voltage and expressly approved for this purpose
Zone 1above the bath or shower, from the floor up to 2.25 m in heightat least IPX4, IPX5 for water jets
Zone 260 cm around Zone 1, also up to 2.25 m in heightat least IPX4
Outsidethe remaining areano specific protection rating required; however, IP44 luminaires are still the safe choice for bathrooms

Simplified summary. The second digit of the IP rating indicates water protection: 4 means splash water, 5 water jets, 7 temporary immersion. IP44 meets IPX4. For a walk-in shower without a tray, Zone 1 extends up to 1.20 m around the water outlet. Only a qualified electrician may install luminaires in the bathroom, as they are familiar with the requirements for residual current protection.

Bathroom lighting ideas

  • Mirror cabinet with lighting: combines mirror lighting and storage in one, often with a socket inside the cabinet.
  • Recesses with LED strips: highlight shower niches or shelves and provide gentle lighting in the evening.
  • Indirect lighting: behind the mirror or under the washbasin creates a floating effect and does not cause glare.
  • Night light with motion sensor: activates a dim light at night without glare. This is especially helpful for older people; more information can be found in the guide Bathroom safety.
  • Bright surfaces: Bright, matt walls and tiles distribute light better. Dark tiles can be coated in a light colour without demolition coated in a light colour.

In a small bathroom, even, bright lighting makes the room appear larger; further ideas can be found in the guide Small bathroom.

Plan lighting at the same time as your bathroom renovation

New lights often require new connections: by the mirror, in a niche, or for a night light. The easiest way is to plan this together with your bathroom renovation, rather than retrofitting later.

At bazuba, we renovate your bathroom without demolition, usually within a few days. Electrical work is carried out by a partner electrical company, but you still have only one point of contact. We will clarify which cables and connections are needed for your lighting concept during the free inspection. You can find fittings, accessories, and bathroom furniture under Sanitary products and bathroom furniture, and information on the cost of a complete renovation can be found in the guide Bathroom renovation costs.

Frequently asked questions about bathroom lighting

For general lighting, use warm white with 2,700 to 3,000 Kelvin; at the mirror, neutral white around 4,000 Kelvin. This makes the room feel cosy, and skin and make-up look natural in the mirror. Cool white light above 5,300 Kelvin usually feels uncomfortable in the bathroom.

As a guideline, around 200 lux for the room and around 500 lux at the mirror. There are no regulations for private bathrooms. More important than overall brightness is that the light at the mirror comes from the front or both sides, so no shadows fall on the face.

In protection zones 1 and 2 around the bath and shower, at least IPX4, for water jets IPX5, inside the bath or shower tray IPX7 with extra-low voltage. This is regulated by DIN VDE 0100-701 in Germany and ÖVE/ÖNORM E 8001-4-701 in Austria. Outside these zones, no protection rating is required, but IP44 is still recommended.

The first digit stands for protection against foreign objects, the second for protection against water. IP44 means protection against objects from one millimetre and against splashing water from all directions. This means a light meets the minimum requirement of IPX4 for protection zones 1 and 2.

Ideally with lights to the left and right of the mirror or all around, at face height. Light from above only casts shadows under the eyes and chin. Neutral white light around 4,000 Kelvin with a colour rendering value of Ra 90 or higher shows colours naturally.

No. In both Germany and Austria, permanently connected lights may only be installed by qualified electricians; in the bathroom, the rules for protection zones and residual current protection also apply. During a bathroom renovation with bazuba, this is handled by an electrical partner company.

With even general lighting without dark corners, bright and matt walls, and indirect lighting that brightens walls or ceiling. A mirror illuminated across the entire width of the washbasin also makes the room appear larger.

Yes. With bazuba, the bathroom is renovated without demolition, and the electrical work is carried out by a partner company. We will clarify which new connections are needed for mirrors, niches or night lights during the free inspection.

Continue to renovation and ideas

Complete renovation

The entire bathroom renovated, without demolition, with a single point of contact for all trades.

Bathroom safety

Lighting, handles, and non-slip surfaces to prevent falls.

Small bathroom

Ideas to make a small bathroom appear larger.

bazuba — all locations
4.8 / 5
473 real customer reviews
Sources: Google (292) Herold (181)

„On the recommendation of a friend, we got in touch with bazuba Rostock for our bathroom renovation. Since it’s a rental apartment, there were quite a few things to consider with the landlord/owner’s approval, but we were able to implement many individual wishes at our own expense. The initial contact was very pleasant, and first, an assessment was made, and of course, the initial ideas and wishes for the project were recorded. The basic task was to transform the over 20-year-old tiled bathroom with an old bathtub into a modern seamless bathroom with a walk-in rain shower. The company’s showroom had quite a few displays, where we could get our first personal impressions. Then we put together the rest from the catalogs, and we also relied on the advice and recommendations of the boss there, who contributed some great ideas. Then we received an offer with a 3D visualization of the finished bathroom. This allowed us to work very well together with the owner and bazuba on the details and arrive at a final result. The correspondence between bazuba and the owner also went very smoothly, and we were very well informed about delivery times, construction times, and the entire process up to the finished bathroom. We helped set up the construction site by covering the floor and cabinets, and the company’s employees were very friendly and informative about the work steps. We hardly had to ask anything because every morning we were informed about what would happen that day until quitting time. The announced construction time was even undercut by 2 days because everything really fit together, and the trades worked hand in hand. The handover and the finished result, including explanations of all the components, care instructions, and warranties, worked wonderfully and were presented to us very transparently. All in all, we are very satisfied with the result, and for the small space available, it almost feels like being in a good hotel when you step into the shower in the morning 😉 I can definitely recommend bazuba Rostock and am happy to show some before-and-after pictures. It’s not decorated or furnished yet, but it’s about the raw result."

Auto-translated from German

Marco S.
Rostock · Google

„Complete renovation of bathroom and WC — After weeks of searching online for a company that could take on our project (complete renovation of bathroom and WC), we came across bazuba. Although all customer reviews pointed to an outstanding company, we still felt the need to visit the company location in Guntramsdorf in person first. But from that moment on, it was clear to us that only this company was suitable for our project. The exceptionally warm, competent, polite, friendly, and patient team immediately convinced us. From then on, everything went very quickly. We arranged an inspection appointment with Mr. Weninger. The inspection, consultation, measuring, and addressing special requests all took place in a very friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The gentleman was very patient and really took a lot of time for us, only leaving once even the smallest detail was clarified. After the very detailed offer and placing the order, the renovation work began punctually on the agreed date. From here on, I have to keep it short, otherwise I would need two more pages. ALL involved, whether subcontractors or the truly outstanding bazuba specialists, carried out their tasks so competently, punctually, cleanly, almost dust-free, quickly, friendly, politely, courteously, professionally, precisely, and expertly that words almost fail me. The continuous support and (after)care of my project are also worth highlighting. After completing the very extensive work, I now have two real gems (bathroom and WC), and I find myself spending much more time there than really necessary. The conclusion of a highly satisfied and enthusiastic customer: the best 10-star company I have ever dealt with. I have recommended and will always recommend bazuba."

Auto-translated from German

werner.lissa
Guntramsdorf · Herold

„Everything just fits perfectly! :o) — We had our roughly 50-year-old bathroom and the equally old toilet renovated by bazuba, and also had the shower in the second bathroom modernized. From the very first (phone) contact, we had a good feeling. Bathroom planner Raffael came to our home and went through the various measures with us, advising us well and being very patient. We were also able to discuss the price well with him, and in the end, he made us an offer that we were very happy with. We had also obtained quotes from competitors, which were significantly more expensive — we’re talking +50% and more. The implementation then went perfectly. First came the dismantling team, then the electricians, the plasterers/floor layers, and finally the assembly team. Overall, the work took almost three weeks, but that was agreed upon in advance and was therefore fine. All workers always arrived as scheduled, were very friendly, explained a lot to us, and did a great job. We were also very grateful that they pointed out some possible/necessary improvements to us. Spontaneous change requests on our part were received and implemented kindly. At the same time, planner Raffael and project manager Anel were always reachable for us and responded quickly to our questions. The result speaks for itself: from old-fashioned, dark rooms with very worn installations, we now have friendly, modern wet rooms that you enjoy entering again. The planning concept was implemented 100% in reality and at what we believe is a really fair price. No hassle with the craftsmen, quite the opposite — it was a pleasure, and we can warmly recommend the entire bazuba team."

Auto-translated from German

Harry B.
Guntramsdorf · Herold

„Everything just fits perfectly! :o) We had bazuba renovate our roughly 50-year-old bathroom and the equally old toilet, and also modernize the shower in the second bathroom. From the very first (phone) contact, we had a good feeling. Bathroom planner Raffael came to our home and went through the various steps with us, giving us good advice and showing a lot of patience. We were also able to talk openly about the price, and in the end he gave us an offer we were very happy with. We had also gotten quotes from competitors, which were noticeably more expensive—we’re talking +50% or more. The implementation then went perfectly. First came the demolition team, then the electricians, the plasterers/floor layers, and finally the installation team. Overall, the work took almost three weeks, but that was agreed on beforehand and so was fine. All the workers always arrived as scheduled, were very friendly, explained a lot to us, and did a great job. We were also very grateful that they pointed out some possible/necessary improvements. Our spontaneous change requests were welcomed and carried out. At the same time, planner Raffael and project manager Anel were always reachable and responded quickly to our questions. The result speaks for itself: from old-fashioned, dark rooms with very worn installations, we now have bright, modern wet rooms that you enjoy entering again. The planning concept was implemented 100% in reality and at what we think is a really fair price. No trouble with the craftsmen at all—in fact, it was a pleasure, and we can warmly recommend the entire bazuba team."

Auto-translated from German

Hans G.
Guntramsdorf · Google

„Due to water damage in 2023 and subsequent repair work by a specialist company, we were then looking for a company to get our bathroom back in shape. This turned out to be not so easy; local companies either declined due to lack of time or didn’t show up despite appointments. Through internet research, we came across bazuba in Karlsruhe. We quickly had a first appointment with Mr. Glutsch. He arrived on time at our place, listened to our ideas about remodeling the bathroom, and shared his professional knowledge and comments. He took measurements, made notes, and promised to prepare an offer, which arrived in the shortest time. Due to several work appointments with bazuba, he already told us in advance that the work would be delayed and we should expect a date in March/April. But that didn’t matter to us in the end, since thanks to the preliminary work of the renovation company, we could still use our 30-year-old bathroom. When choosing the ceramics and the walk-in shower, we were with Mr. Glutsch at C.Ufer in KA (top advice!). In April, the work started on our partially renovated bathroom. After about 2 weeks, we could fully use our new bathroom; for the shower enclosure, we had to make do with a temporary solution, which was replaced after 5 weeks by a glass partition from Kermi. All in all, we were very impressed by the support and advice from bazuba (special thanks to Mr. Glutsch). A big compliment to the two skilled workers responsible for the work!! Without a doubt, 5 stars for bazuba."

Auto-translated from German

Peter G.
Karlsruhe · Google

„Good decision! — We chose BAZUBA because of a report on an online portal... and we have no regrets! Our wishes were discussed and planned in the showroom with an incredible amount of patience. Even changes and special requests before the renovation started were implemented quickly and easily. The entire construction team also deserves mention – everyone was without exception polite and friendly. I especially want to mention Mr. Robert, who brightened every one of our site visits with his good mood. In hindsight, we can now list the following reasons why we recommend BAZUBA to everyone: 1.) The price – All other quotes were about 25% higher than BAZUBA’s. 2.) The team – As already mentioned, patience and friendliness are top priorities here. 3.) The planning – None of our wishes were considered impossible. Even special requests were gladly fulfilled. 4.) The working time – A conventional renovation would have taken at least 4 weeks and the whole house would have been dusty. BAZUBA finished on schedule in 2 weeks. 5.) The quality – Nothing wobbles, nothing is scratched. The bathtub looks like new. The walls are flawless. Every joint fits perfectly. 6.) The look – We chose a seamless bathroom. Compared to tiles, our bathroom now feels much friendlier and warmer. 7.) The warranty! All in all, we are satisfied customers and would have our bathroom renovated by BAZUBA again anytime."

Auto-translated from German

Christopher
Guntramsdorf · Herold

„Perfect! Absolutely recommend. — Tub out and shower in! From start to finish, we can only give the highest praise. The consultant, Mr. Raffael Weninger, gave us excellent advice at home. He took our needs into account and came up with a perfect plan for us with his great ideas. The craftsmen also deserve the highest praise. They were extremely careful to avoid dust and dirt, which is not easy with this kind of work. The first two days, two careful installers took on their responsible tasks. After all, all newly laid water pipes and drains have to be completely sealed. The third and fourth days belonged to the quick gentlemen Jànos and Gàbor, who were able to complete this partial renovation on time — without taking a break! It must be said that all "our" four craftsmen are extremely friendly and hardworking. Otherwise, our project would not have been completed perfectly in this relatively short time. On the third day, the company owner visited us, checked on the progress, and asked about our satisfaction so far. That builds trust. Now we enjoy our new shower pleasure every day! We gladly recommend this company with its great employees. Warm regards! Christian & Sylvia Karner"

Auto-translated from German

Christian K.
Guntramsdorf · Herold

New lighting, new bathroom?

We will inspect your bathroom free of charge, plan the lighting and renovation together, and provide a fixed price after the visit. Prefer to call? Free from Germany at 0800 90 44 2000, from Austria on 0800 66 55 36.

Your details

Your interest

Take or choose photosJPG, JPEG, PNG, WEBP, MP4, PDF · max. 15 MB · up to 5 files
    4.8/5 from 473 reviews ✓ 100% free & no obligation