Inspiration/Room guides/Bathroom/IP rating for the bathroom

When choosing bathroom lighting it is important to familiarise yourself with IP ratings and bathroom zones. Here you see a bathroom lamp next to a mirror.

Understanding IP ratings for bathroom lighting

When choosing bathroom lighting, it’s essential to consider the IP (Ingress Protection) rating, as different areas of the bathroom require specific levels of protection. The IP rating determines how well a fixture is safeguarded against water and dust, ensuring both safety and durability in moisture-prone environments.

Updated: 18th February 2025

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What is an IP rating?

An IP (Ingress Protection) rating tells you how well a light or electrical fixture is protected against foreign objects like dust and water. It’s especially important in bathrooms, where moisture levels are high.

Each IP rating consists of two numbers:

The first digit (0–6) indicates protection against dust and other solid particles.
The second digit (0–8) indicates protection against water.

The higher the numbers, the better the protection. For example:

IP44: Is protected against larger dust particles and splashes of water.
IP67: Completely dust-tight and resistant to temporary water immersion.
IP68: Fully water and dust proof and can even withstand longer periods of submersion.

IP44

IP65

Bathroom zones

In order to understand exactly which areas of the bathroom require which IP rating the bathroom is divided into zones, each requiring a specific minimum IP rating for safety.

Zone 0: Inside the bath or shower floor area. Any light fixture here must be at least IP67, as it will be in direct contact with water.
Zone 1: The area above the bath or shower, up to 225 cm from the floor. A minimum of IP44 is required, but IP65 is recommended for added protection.
Zone 2: The area 60 cm outside the bath or shower and around a sink. A minimum of IP44 is needed.
Areas further away from water sources where no specific IP rating is required, though IP-rated fittings are still recommended for extra safety.