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This post is about the best height for a bathroom vanity light, a complete vanity light size guide, and tips for the perfect placement.
It’s time to think about replacing that old vanity light that you’ve wanted to for years!
I love my home, but when we first moved in, it was very builder-grade. But if one thing’s for sure, it’s that bathroom lighting plays a major part in making your bathroom look up to date. Once I updated all of the vanity lights in my bathrooms, it was already a HUGE improvement before I even touched anything else.
And what’s more important than picking out an adorable new vanity light? Getting the height of your bathroom vanity light RIGHT! While this is mostly important for remodels, replacing a vanity light is the perfect opportunity to correct the mistakes of those in the past. 😉
Whether you’re thinking about the height of a bathroom vanity light, vanity light width compared to mirror, or anything else regarding vanity light placement in a bathroom, this post is for you!
Skip to the end for a full recap
Height of Bathroom Vanity Light – Solved ✅
So how high should vanity lights be?
The standard height for vanity lights is 75 to 82 inches high, from the center of the light fixture to the floor.
RELATED POST: 23 Inexpensive Vanity Lights That Make a Serious Statement
The standard height of a bathroom vanity is a range because it isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. It’s going to solely depend on what the contractors were feeling that day. 😉
If you’re in a situation where you can pick any number within that range, I’d recommend aiming for the higher end of the spectrum.
For reference, my half-bath vanity light is 81 inches high from the floor to the center of the light fixture.
My organic modern bathroom vanity light is also 82 inches off the ground. Since we completely remodeled this bathroom ourselves, we intentionally made the vanity light height above the mirror just a tad bit higher.
And when it comes to mirror placement between your vanity light and the vanity, every inch is going to matter. Check out the below-related post for a complete size guide on hanging your mirror over the vanity.
RELATED POST: Should Bathroom Mirror Be Same Width as Vanity? (Complete Size Guide)
Why a Higher Vanity Light is Better
Why do I recommend vanity light height be on the higher end of the 75-82 inch range? Because this allows you to get a nice big mirror without the vanity light interfering with it. Bigger mirrors are always appreciated in any bathroom. It can help make your space look even bigger than it is!
Plus, a vanity light that is hung a little higher is going to make your bathroom feel taller than it is. This will create height! And who doesn’t want a taller feeling space? I’m forever accepting of ANYTHING that will make my 8-foot ceilings feel like they aren’t only 8 feet haha.
Think about it, 72 inches is a 6-foot person. And while they aren’t going to be standing directly under the vanity light, a 75-inch high vanity light is going to feel super short to them. My 6’1” husband would essentially be in a staring match with the thing each time he goes into the bathroom. 😂
Just don’t hang it too much higher than the range, because then you’ll be coming too close to the ceiling. And that is going to look just as awkward as a low vanity light.
If the height of your bathroom vanity light is well outside the standard height for a vanity light range of 75 to 82 inches, you may want to look at getting it moved. Later in the post, I’ll be talking about vanity light placement, and you’ll understand why this is so important to get right.
Does Ceiling Height Matter for Vanity Light Height?
Not at all! Your ceiling height does not impact your vanity light height.
A lot of times I’ll get asked, “What should my vanity light height be for an 8-foot ceiling?”…” What about a vanity light height for a 9-foot ceiling?”
And my answer is always the standard bathroom light height: 75 to 82 inches.
Why doesn’t it matter? Because the point of vanity lighting is to light your vanity area. You want the space where you’re doing makeup, getting ready for your day, etc. to be well-lit. If the vanity light is super high, it loses its ultimate purpose.
The only exception here is if you have an abnormally low ceiling in your bathroom. Maybe in a small basem*nt half-bath. For this, you’ll just have to do your best – and you may even want to look at sconces. I’ll get to those later!
So when thinking about vanity light height above a mirror, ceiling height is one less thing you’ll need to worry about!
How Wide Should Vanity Light Be Compared to Mirror?
So how wide should a vanity light be?
A vanity light should be at least three-fourths, or 75%, the width of your vanity mirror. This is a general guideline for vanity light-to-mirror ratio.
Note that it doesn’t have to be exactly three-fourths, I said at least. In fact, your vanity light can be as wide as your mirror! And if your vanity light is the only thing providing light to your bathroom, you may need to go this route.
It starts with the base: the vanity. This impacts the size of your mirror, which impacts the width of your vanity light.
RELATED POST: Should Bathroom Mirror Be Same Width as Vanity? (Complete Size Guide)
So why does a vanity light fixture need to be at least 75% of the mirror width?
- It looks proportionate.
- This will ensure your vanity and mirror are well-lit.
- Your vanity light needs to provide enough light to the rest of your space – especially if you’re solely relying on this single fixture to light your entire bathroom.
My Bathrooms for Reference
In my half-bath, I chose an adorable 4-light fixture to replace the builder-grade 4-light fixture that lived there previously. I really liked the amount of light in the bathroom, so I decided to stick with the same configuration as opposed to dropping to a 3-light fixture.
My light fixture is 26 inches wide, while the total width of my mirror (including the pivot grommets) is 27 inches wide. As the light fixture is not wider than the overall mirror, this looks proportional.
In my organic modern bathroom, the light fixture is 16 inches wide, while the width of my mirror is 20 inches. Again, this is very proportional to the mirror while still allowing an adequate amount of light.
RELATED POST: 17 Amazon Bathroom Vanity Mirrors You Will Obsess Over!
Vanity Light Configurations
Vanity lights come in several different configurations:
- 1-Light Vanity Light – aka the sconce (more to come on this in a bit)
- 2-Light Vanity Light
- 3-Light Vanity Light
- 4-Light Vanity Light
- 5-Light Vanity Light – this is the least popular option due to aesthetic reasons
This is going to impact 1) the width of your vanity light and 2) the amount of light shining in your bathroom.
Let’s take a look at what size is the right fit for you below!
Best Vanity Light Width for Your Vanity Size
Here you’ll find the best-size vanity light for the most common vanity sizes. Remember, it’s like a domino effect. First comes the vanity, which then impacts the vanity mirror size, which finally impacts the vanity light width and size.
So if you’re asking how wide your vanity light should be compared to your vanity, it’s essentially the same question as how wide your vanity light should be compared to your mirror.
RELATED POST: Should Bathroom Mirror Be Same Width as Vanity? (Complete Size Guide)
In the end, the vanity light fixture you ultimately choose is 100% personal preference. These are simply just guidelines!
What size vanity light for 24-inch vanity?
For a 24-inch vanity, which is considered a very small vanity, you will want to aim for a vanity light that is 16-22 inches wide. This will most likely come in the form of a 2-light fixture. I’d go this route if I had a tiny bathroom that was just big enough to fit the vanity.
But depending on the bathroom size you’re trying to illuminate, it may be best to opt for a 3-light fixture. This way you have enough light and don’t feel like it’s too dim.
What size vanity light for 30-inch vanity?
With a 30-inch vanity, which is a pretty standard size for half-baths, you’ll want the width of your vanity light between 20-28 inches wide. A 3-light or 4-light vanity light configuration will be perfect here depending on bathroom size.
As a reminder, my half-bath vanity is 30 inches and I went with a 4-light vanity light since this is the only light in this bathroom.
What size vanity light for 36-inch vanity?
For a vanity that is 36 inches wide, a vanity light fixture that is 26-34 inches wide will be perfect for you.
This will almost exclusively lead you to a 4-light vanity light configuration.
What size vanity light for 48-inch vanity?
When you have a 48-inch vanity to work with, the width of your vanity light fixture should be 30-36 inches wide. You may notice that this may be a slightly smaller range. This will keep you in the 4-light configuration range. You can even opt for sconces on either side of the mirror with this size of vanity.
In a bit, I’ll talk about the height of bathroom vanity light sconces if that’s the route you want to take!
Why isn’t the upper end of the range 46 inches? Simply put, there aren’t any 4-light fixtures that wide and if there are, they will look very awkward lol.
The 48-inch vanity is probably the most difficult to deal with when sizing a mirror and vanity light proportionately. It’s okay if your mirror is a lot narrower than the vanity. And this is where you’ll want to use your mirror as your guide when determining the width of your vanity light.
If I can offer any design advice here, it would be to refrain from utilizing a 5-light vanity light if possible. 😊 While tempting, I find that the overall look and feel of a light this long doesn’t look as amazing as I wish it did. A 4-light vanity light will still achieve the purpose of lighting the vanity area.
Just ensure your vanity light is at least 75% the width of your mirror here, and you’ll be golden!
What size vanity light for 60-inch vanity?
When dealing with a 60-inch vanity, this is where it comes down to your vanity mirror setup and the size of your bathroom.
For one big mirror, you can use a 3-light or 4-light configuration over each sink. As a rule of thumb, each sink should have its own light, even if you only have one mirror. Each fixture should be at least 20 inches wide with a maximum width of 26 inches. You’ll want to ensure there are at least 6 inches in between your light fixtures.
For two mirrors, use a 2-light or 3-light vanity light configuration over each mirror. OR you have the option to include 3 scones – two on the far ends of the vanity and one in between the two mirrors. Each fixture should be at least 16 inches wide and a maximum of 24 inches wide.
My light fixtures are 16 inches wide for reference. This bathroom is a jack-and-jill style bathroom so it’s very small. I went from 8 bulbs to 4 bulbs and was able to make up the lost light with LED mirrors. These are AMAZING at providing the picture-perfect lighting we all strive for in our homes!
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What size vanity light for 72-inch vanity?
For a 72-inch wide vanity, the best-sized vanity light is very similar to the 60-inch vanity guidelines above. It’s dependent on whether you have one big mirror or two smaller mirrors.
A lot of times when I see this size of vanity, one side will be a makeup area, while the other side has the sink. Regardless of if you have this setup or two sinks, the lighting situation will be the same.
For one big mirror, a 3-light or 4-light configuration can be used for each side of the vanity. Each fixture should be at least 24 inches wide with a maximum width of 30 inches. Again, 6 inches should separate your vanity light fixtures.
For two mirrors, a very popular option with this size of vanity is to utilize sconces. Chances are if you have this big of a vanity, it’s in a big room. That big room most likely has natural light or other light fixtures that are meant to provide light to the room. This makes sconces an excellent option for this layout.
Placement of Vanity Light Over Mirror
The placement of your vanity light over your mirror is just as critical as the height of bathroom vanity lights. In this section, I’ll answer common questions to make sure you get this exact. Easy-peasy! 😊
How Far Above Your Mirror Should Your Vanity Light Be?
There should be at least 3 inches between the top of your mirror and the bottom of the wall plate on your vanity light.
This will ensure that your vanity light and mirror have breathing room and some much-needed space from each other. 😉
If your desired vanity light has downward-facing lights, here’s a tip for you. You must have at least 2 inches from the bottom of the light shades and the mirror. And now you may be wondering if your vanity lights can overhang the mirror – which is perfect timing for the next section.
Should Vanity Lights Overhang Mirror?
Vanity lights should NOT overhang your mirror, not even by an inch.
This will create a cluttered look to your vanity area as the light overlaps the mirror. The best solution for this is simple. Flip your vanity light so that you now have upward-facing lights.
I would say that the majority of vanity light fixtures out there can go either way. Sure, some lights are meant to go a certain way, but most can be used either way.
So can vanity lights hang over a mirror? While they can, they shouldn’t. Lights overhanging the mirror make your room feel shorter as this will make your vanity area feel more cramped together. It’s best practice to allow for that space in between!
Height of bathroom vanity light is so important because it’ll make sure your down-facing lights don’t overhang the mirror.
Should Bathroom Vanity Lights Shine Up or Down?
As we just discussed, most vanity lights can be configured facing up OR down. When should your vanity light shine up as opposed to down? It’s purely personal preference.
Here are some things to think about that may help you decide what is best for your bathroom.
- Downward-facing vanity lights are directed at your vanity. For a bathroom where you’re getting ready and need optimal lighting, down-facing may be best for you.
- Upward-facing vanity lights are directed up at the ceiling. This still adequately lights the vanity area. But if this is your only light source in the room, this option is something to consider. The light hits the ceiling and evenly brightens the rest of the space.
Generally speaking, vanity lights with clear glass shades work well either way. Frosted glass diffuses the light a little more, which is similar to metal and fabric shades.
Should Vanity Light Be Centered Over Sink?
Yes, yes and yes!
You will always want your vanity lights centered over the sink.
The only exception here is if you have a medium-sized vanity (typically 36-inch or 48-inch) where the sink is off-centered to one side. In this case, center your vanity light on the mirror, which should already be centered on the vanity.
How High to Hang Sconces in Bathroom?
The height of bathroom vanity lights has been a big topic here, but what about sconces?
The perfect vanity sconce height is 64-70 inches high, from the center of the sconce to the floor.
I wish I could tell you the exact height to hang them lol. But with vanity lighting, there can be so many variables – and out pops a range. Here is something to help you narrow down the best bathroom wall sconce height for your specific situation.
What is the purpose of bathroom wall sconces? To light up your beautiful face! So with that being said, think about the average height of the people using your vanity.
For example, if someone who is 5’5” will be the one using the vanity, 65 inches is a good option for your vanity sconce height.
So vanity sconces more or less want to be in line with your face. But make sure you stay in the 64-70 inch range, because too low or too high will look out of place.
How Far Apart Should Vanity Sconces Be?
Vanity sconces should be at least 36-40 inches apart (with the mirror in between).
There should be at least 4 inches of space between your sconce and your mirror.
If your desired configuration calls for two mirrors and two sconces for each mirror, be sure to leave at least 6 inches in between the middle sconces.
How Many Lights Do I Need for a Double Vanity?
For a double vanity, you will want at least two separate vanity lights. Remember, one vanity light fixture for each sink. And if one side is a makeup area, while the other side is a sink, you should have a light above both.
But you can also go the sconce route, and have a single sconce between two mirrors at a double vanity. This is a great solution to the question “What should I put between double vanity mirrors?”
It’s a gorgeous space filler, to say the least. I wouldn’t put much else between two vanity mirrors. Let the vanity, mirrors, and light fixtures speak for themselves!
What is the Most Flattering Lighting for a Bathroom?
When thinking about the height of a bathroom vanity light, chances are you’re someone who cares about the details, like me! 😊
Should bathroom lights be warm or cool? You’ll definitely want to stick with warm lighting for the most flattering bathroom lighting. This is 2700k – which is the standard bulb color temperature used around most homes.
Chances are, this is the same type of bulb you’re using in your lamps. When you see soft white vs daylight, I would stay away from daylight in a bathroom. It’s going to give you that twilight, school cafeteria feeling.
On top of this, it’ll wash you out. And when you look into your bathroom vanity you want to be feeling good!
Outside of this, the look and feel of your bulbs don’t matter TOO much. While they’re on, you’re not going to see them because no one is going to stare directly at the light lol. When they’re off, in a small bathroom chances are there won’t be enough light to see them.
However, I do suggest bulbs that don’t have a plastic white base. Usually, brand names and other info are pretty visibly printed on those bases. Instead, go for an all-glass bulb.
My favorite bulbs for my bathroom vanity lights are these GE clear globe bulbs. They just look good! I use these in my half-bath.
For just a standard-looking bulb (the basics), this next one is perfect. I use these in my organic modern bathroom.
Always be sure to check the best wattage for your specific light fixture!
Should Vanity Lights Match Mirror?
Vanity lights can match your mirror, but they don’t have to! I recommend mixing metals – it’s one of my favorite ways to add interest to a bathroom. And it’s so easy!
Check out the below-related post for how to pull off the mixed metal look in your own bathroom.
RELATED POST: Mixing Metals In Bathroom: All You Need To Know to Pull It Off
Should Bathroom Light Fixtures Match Faucets?
Just like the vanity mirror, bathroom light fixtures can match your faucets, but it’s up to preference!
I highly recommend learning more about mixing metals in the bathroom to see if this is something you’re willing to try in your space!
Mixing metals between your hardware, faucet, mirror, light fixtures, and accessories can make your bathroom look like you hired a professional to design it.
The Best-Looking, Yet Inexpensive Vanity Light Fixtures
Now that you’ve nailed down the topic “height of bathroom vanity light”, it’s time to pick out that perfect light fixture. No need to go super expensive to achieve an adorable look.
Luckily for you, and my future vanity light-buying self lol, I have an entire post dedicated to 23 extremely cute, yet inexpensive vanity lights. After all of this hard work, you deserve to have the perfect light fixture handed to you. I’m hoping this post does exactly that!
RELATED POST: 23 Inexpensive Vanity Lights That Make a Serious Statement
The Recap: Height of Bathroom Vanity Light
So let’s wrap it all up in one place. We’ve answered the perfect height of bathroom vanity light, how wide should vanity light be compared to mirror, and much more. Here are the key takeaways:
- Height of bathroom vanity light: 75-82 inches high, from floor to center of light fixture.
- Width of bathroom vanity light: At least 75% of the overall width of your vanity mirror – can be as wide as the mirror, but not wider.
- Ceiling Height: Does not impact the height of your vanity light.
- Overhang: Vanity lights should never overhang the mirror.
- Space Between Top of Mirror and Light: At least 3 inches between the top of the mirror and the wall plate of light. At least 2 inches between the top of the mirror and light shades (if the light fixture is downward-facing).
- Downward-facing Vanity Lights: Best for directly lighting vanity area.
- Upward-facing Vanity Lights: Best for full room illumination.
- Center Over Sink: Vanity lights should always be centered over the sink. Unless the sink is off-centered, then the vanity light should be centered on the mirror.
- Vanity Sconce Height: 64-70 inches high, from the floor to the center of the light fixture.
- Space Between Sconces: 36-40 inches with mirror in between. Sconces should be at least 4 inches away from the mirror.
- Double Vanity Light Fixtures: There should be at least 6” of space in between each fixture.
- Most Flattering Vanity Lighting: 2700k color temperature. Stick to soft white.
This post was about height of bathroom vanity light and a complete vanity light size guide to ensure your bathroom stands out from the rest.
When it comes to the height of a bathroom vanity light, you want to get it right one time and one time only. This post lays out all of the numbers you may need to know in order to get your bathroom lighting fixture positioned perfectly.
Remember, this is all a rule of thumb. If you’re within an inch or so of any of these ranges or measurements, that’s completely fine! Guidelines are simply guidelines. You must do what you love and what is best for your space.
Now go get your vanity light height right!
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