Can Vanity Light Be Wider Than Mirror?

If you’re planning to remodel your bathroom, you might be wondering whether can vanity light should be wider than the mirror or not.

It’s important to know the answer as a vanity light that is too narrow or too wide can make your space look unbalanced and unappealing.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about vanity lights, including the different types, determining process, influencing factors, and maintenance tips.

Can Vanity Light Be Wider Than Mirror?

Yes, a vanity light can be up to 6 inches wider than the mirror above it. Extending a few inches beyond the mirror frame helps ensure ample light coverage across the entirety of the vanity space. However, don’t oversize the light as this can create distracting light spillage on side walls.

Benefits of Wider Vanity Lights Compared to Mirror Width

Enhanced Illumination

By choosing wider vanity lights, you can achieve better illumination in your bathroom space.

A broader light fixture distributes light across a larger area, ensuring more even and effective lighting. 

This can help reduce shadows and provide better visibility, making tasks like applying makeup or shaving easier.

Balanced Aesthetics

Wider vanity lights can create a sense of balance and proportion in your bathroom.

When the width of the lights matches or slightly exceeds the width of the mirror, it creates a visually pleasing and harmonious look. 

This symmetry adds a touch of elegance to your bathroom decor.

Improved Reflection

If you have a mirrored medicine cabinet or a larger mirror above your vanity, wider vanity lights can enhance the reflection.

The increased width of the light fixture ensures that the light is spread evenly across the mirror’s surface, minimizing any dark or shadowed areas. 

This helps create a clearer and more accurate reflection when you look into the mirror.

Design Statement

Choosing wider vanity lights can also make a design statement in your bathroom. A larger light fixture can become a focal point and add visual interest to the space.

Whether you opt for sleek and modern fixtures or more decorative and ornate ones, wider vanity lights can become a stylish element that complements your overall bathroom design.

How to Measure for a New Vanity Light?

Here are the steps on how to measure for a new vanity light:

Step 1: Measure the Width of Your Vanity

To ensure the perfect fit, start by measuring the width of your vanity. Using a measuring tape, place one end on the left edge of the vanity and extend it to the right edge.

Take note of the measurement in inches. This width measurement will be crucial in determining the maximum width of the vanity light you can choose.

Opt for a vanity light that is slightly smaller than the width of your vanity to ensure a balanced and proportional look.

Step 2: Measure the Height of Your Vanity Mirror

Next, measure the height of your vanity mirror from the top edge to the bottom edge. Again, use a measuring tape and record the measurement in inches.

The height of your vanity mirror will dictate the height of the vanity light you need.

A vanity light should be installed above a mirror, providing ample light without overwhelming the area.

Step 3: Measure the Distance Between the Two Sinks (For Double Vanity)

For those with a double vanity that features two sinks, measure the distance between the centers of the two sinks. This measurement will determine the spacing required for the vanity lights.

Measure the distance between the centers of one sink and the other sink with a measuring tape. Note down this measurement in inches.

Step 4: Consider the Style of Your Bathroom

When choosing a vanity light, consider the style of your bathroom. If your bathroom has a traditional or classic design, opt for a vanity light with a more timeless and elegant look.

Look for fixtures that feature brushed finishes, ornate detailing, or even vintage-inspired designs.

In contrast, if your bathroom has a modern or contemporary aesthetic, choose vanity lights with sleek lines and minimalist designs.

Step 5: Consider the Size of Your Bathroom

The size of your bathroom is another critical factor to consider when selecting a vanity light. For smaller bathrooms, choose a vanity light with a smaller footprint that won’t overwhelm the space visually.

Compact fixtures with one or two lights might be ideal for these settings. Vanity lights in larger bathrooms can feature more substantial features, such as multiple lights or statement pieces.

Step 6: Consider Your Budget

Vanity lights come in a wide range of prices, so it’s essential to set a budget before you start shopping. Decide on the maximum amount you’re willing to spend on the vanity light to avoid overspending.

Budget-friendly fixtures can also provide adequate lighting and style, despite better quality and more features.

Factors to Consider for Placement of the Vanity Light

Height

Position the vanity light at the same height as the vanity mirror or slightly higher.

Placing it too low may cause glare, while positioning it too high may cast shadows on your face. Aim for an optimal height to ensure a clear and flattering reflection.

Width

Ensure that the width of the vanity light is at least 75% of the width of the vanity itself.

This proportion will guarantee even distribution of light across the entire vanity area, eliminating dark spots and providing sufficient illumination for your grooming tasks.

Spacing

If you’re using multiple vanity lights, maintain even spacing between them.

Proper spacing will create a balanced and harmonious lighting effect, avoiding any areas with insufficient or excessive brightness.

Consider the number of lights you have and the size of the vanity to determine the ideal spacing.

Style

Select a vanity light that complements the overall style of your bathroom. For traditional bathrooms, opt for vanity lights with classic designs, such as brushed finishes or decorative detailing.

For modern bathrooms, choose vanity lights with sleek lines and contemporary finishes, like polished chrome or matte black.

Aligning the style of the light with the bathroom decor will enhance the visual appeal of the space.

Glare

Avoid placing the vanity light directly in your line of sight, as this can cause uncomfortable glare.

Position the light slightly above eye level or to the sides of the mirror to minimize glare and ensure a clear view of your reflection.

Brightness

Choose a vanity light that provides enough brightness to see your face clearly without causing harsh or glaring light.

You can achieve the ideal level of illumination for different activities and times of day with dimmable LED lights.

Color Temperature

Opt for a warm white or neutral color temperature for your vanity light.

This color temperature creates a soothing and inviting atmosphere in the bathroom, making it feel cozy and comfortable.

Avoid cool white or blueish lights, as they can create a cold and sterile ambiance.

How to Install a Vanity Light?

Here are the steps on how to install a vanity light:

Step 1: Turn off the Power

Safety first! Before beginning the installation process, turn off the power to the light at the circuit breaker box.

This step is crucial to prevent any electrical hazards while working on the vanity light.

Step 2: Remove the Old Light Fixture

If there’s an existing light fixture in place, you’ll need to remove it before installing the new vanity light.

Carefully disconnect the wires connected to the old fixture and unscrew it from the wall. Make sure the power is still off while doing this.

Step 3: Install the Mounting Bracket

The mounting bracket serves as the base for your new vanity light. Typically made of metal, it needs to be securely attached to the wall.

Use screws to fasten the mounting bracket, ensuring it is level and stable.

Step 4: Connect the Wires

Now it’s time to connect the wires of the vanity light to the wires in the wall. Match the colors of the wires properly before making the connections.

Usually, black wires connect to black (hot), white wires to white (neutral), and green or bare wires to green or bare (ground).

Step 5: Secure the Vanity Light

With the wires correctly connected, gently tuck them into the electrical box. Then, carefully align the vanity light with the mounting bracket.

Secure the light in place using screws, ensuring it is tightly fastened to the bracket.

Step 6: Turn on the Power

Once the vanity light is securely installed, it’s time to turn on the power again. Head back to the circuit breaker box and switch the power back on.

If the light illuminates as expected, congratulations! You have successfully installed your new vanity light.

Is it Better to Make the Light Wider Than the Mirror?

There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether or not to make the light wider than the mirror.

The Size of the Mirror

When determining whether to make the light wider than the mirror, consider the size of the mirror itself. If the mirror is large and spans a significant portion of the wall, widening the light can be beneficial.

Thus, your reflection will be adequately illuminated with an even distribution of light across the mirror surface.

The Style of the Bathroom

The style and visual elements of your bathroom also play a crucial role in this decision. Keep the light the same width as the mirror in smaller bathrooms or those with many other decorative elements.

If the light fixture matches the mirror’s width, the bathroom will look cohesive and balanced.

Your Personal Preferences

Ultimately, your personal preferences and needs should guide the decision-making process. Consider the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve and how the lighting will impact the ambiance of the bathroom.

When the light is wider than the mirror, it provides enhanced lighting, while keeping it the same width maintains simplicity and visual harmony.

Creative Lighting Solutions for Different Mirror Widths

Narrow Mirror (Less than 24 inches):

For narrow mirrors, you can consider using wall sconces or vertical vanity lights on either side of the mirror. These fixtures provide focused lighting and create a balanced look. 

Position them at eye level or slightly above to avoid casting shadows on your face. Wall sconces with adjustable arms or swivel heads allow you to direct the light where you need it most.

Medium Mirror (24 to 36 inches)

With a medium-sized mirror, you have a few options. One popular choice is to use a single wide vanity light fixture above the mirror. This ensures even illumination across the entire mirror surface. 

Alternatively, you can opt for two smaller vanity lights, one on each side of the mirror, for a symmetrical and stylish look.

Make sure the lights are positioned at the appropriate height to avoid glare or shadows.

Wide Mirror (More than 36 inches)

For wide mirrors, you have the flexibility to explore different lighting arrangements.

One option is to use multiple sconces or vertical vanity lights evenly spaced across the width of the mirror. This creates a visually stunning effect and provides ample lighting. 

Another option is to use a long horizontal light fixture that spans the width of the mirror. This creates a modern and sleek look while ensuring uniform illumination.

Custom Solutions

If you have a uniquely shaped or non-standard-sized mirror, you can get creative with your lighting solutions.

Consider using a combination of recessed lights, track lighting, or even pendant lights to achieve the desired effect. 

Recessed lights can provide overall ambient lighting, while track or pendant lights can add a touch of style and focus on specific areas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Vanity Lights and Mirror Width

Mistake: Inadequate Lighting

One common mistake is choosing vanity lights that don’t provide enough illumination.

Insufficient lighting can make tasks like grooming and applying makeup difficult. 

To avoid this, make sure you consider the appropriate brightness level for your bathroom space.

Look for vanity lights with higher lumen ratings or wattages to ensure ample lighting.

Mistake: Improper Light Placement

Another mistake is the improper placement of vanity lights. Placing the lights too high or too low can create unflattering shadows on your face. 

To avoid this, position the lights at eye level or slightly above, evenly spaced on both sides of the mirror. This ensures even lighting and minimizes shadows.

Mistake: Ignoring Mirror Width

Neglecting the width of your mirror when choosing vanity lights is a common oversight.

If the lights are too narrow compared to the mirror, the illumination might not cover the entire mirror surface, resulting in uneven lighting. 

On the other hand, if the lights are too wide, they may overpower the mirror or the space.

Consider the width of your mirror and choose vanity lights that proportionately complement it.

Mistake: Forgetting Dimming Options

Overlooking the option for dimmable vanity lights is a mistake. Dimmable lights allow you to adjust the brightness based on your needs and preferences. 

This adds flexibility and ambiance to your bathroom lighting. Consider installing dimmer switches or selecting vanity lights that offer dimming capabilities.

Mistake: Disregarding Style and Aesthetics

Choosing vanity lights solely based on functionality without considering the style and aesthetics of your bathroom is a common mistake. 

The lighting fixtures should blend harmoniously with the overall design and decor of your bathroom. Consider the style, finish, and shape of the lights to ensure they complement your space.

FAQs on if Vanity Light Be Wider Than Mirror

Final Words

In choosing whether to make the vanity light wider than the mirror, consider factors like mirror size, bathroom style, and personal preferences.

Ensuring even light distribution on a large mirror may warrant widening the light. Keeping them the same width can create a balanced, uncluttered bathroom look.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Prioritize your needs and style to achieve a well-lit and harmonious bathroom space.