Keeping Your Kids Safe – Choosing the Right Bathroom Lights

As a parent, you want to keep your children safe, even when it comes to your home’s lighting fixtures. Bathrooms can be one of the most hazardous rooms when it comes to electricity and water mixing, so choosing lighting with the proper IP rating is crucial. Here’s what you need to know as a parent selecting safe and stylish bathroom lights.

What is an IP Rating?

IP stands for “Ingress Protection” and it consists of two numbers that indicate the light’s resistance to dust and moisture. This rating is designated based on standardised testing to verify the degree of protection provided. The first digit refers to dust protection and the second number relates to liquid ingress protection.

For bathrooms, that second digit for water protection is really important! You want bathroom lighting rated at IP44 minimum, but IP65 or IP67 is preferable for areas that will get really wet, like near showers and bathtubs.

Here’s a quick guide to what the IP moisture ratings mean:

*IP44 – Protected from splashing water from any direction

*IP65 – Protected against low pressure water jets from any direction

*IP67 – Protected against short term immersion in water

(source: Understanding IP Rating for Bathroom Lights: A Comprehensive Guide – Universal Lighting)

As you can see, IP65 and IP67 rated fixtures can withstand direct sprays, heavy streams of water and even temporary immersion. This makes them perfect for protecting kids in wet bathrooms!

Why IP Ratings Matter in Bathrooms

IP ratings are crucial for bathroom lighting because there is an abundance of moisture and water in this room. Fixtures without adequate liquid protection could short circuit or cause electrocution if water seeps into the electrical components.

Bathrooms undergo a lot of use with sinks running, showers flowing, and splashes happening. Kids tend to make even more of a splash during bath time! Without IP rated lights, these wet conditions could lead to extremely hazardous electrical situations.

Additionally, the humid, steamy atmosphere can cause condensation and moisture buildup within the light fixtures. Appropriate IP ratings prevent moisture ingress and accumulation that could damage the lights.

Electrical Safety Tips for Kids’ Bathrooms

In addition to selecting lighting with appropriate IP ratings, here are some other electrical safety tips to keep in mind for your kids’ bathroom:

*Use ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets – These will shut off power quickly if electricity comes into contact with water.

*Avoid placing outlets near water sources – Don’t put outlets right by sinks, tubs or showers where splashing can occur.

*Use moisture resistant cover plates – Cover plates that form a seal around outlets prevent water intrusion.

*Label breaker switches – Clearly label which breaker controls the bathroom circuits for easy emergency shut-off.

*Install tamper resistant outlets – These prevent kids from poking objects into sockets to reduce electrocution risk.

Following basic bathroom electrical safety guidelines along with choosing IP rated lights will help reduce risks and give you peace of mind.

Bathroom Areas to Pay Attention To

Here are the key bathroom zones to be particularly mindful of when selecting lighting fixtures for your tots’ and teens’ bathrooms:

Showers

The shower area undergoes heavy water contact and direct spray. To handle these wet conditions, install IP65 or IP67 rated light fixtures directly in the shower zone. Waterproof recessed cans or enclosed LED lights are great options.

Bathtubs

Bathtub areas are prone to splashing, overflow and moisture. Place IP65 rated fixtures around bathtubs to account for the high degree of water exposure. Wall sconces above the tub or pendant lights hanging from the ceiling are fitting choices.

Sinks

Standard IP44 rated lights are typically sufficient above bathroom sinks since water contact is minimal. Just make sure any electrical connections are sealed to prevent water running down the vanity from infiltrating light fixtures.

Outdoor Baths

For bathrooms situated in pool houses or cabanas, it’s crucial to choose IP65 or IP67 rated fixtures. When bathrooms are exposed to outdoor elements like rain and humidity, the lighting needs to withstand these wet and humid conditions.

Bathroom Lighting Ideas for Kids

Here are some bathroom lighting ideas that check the boxes for safety, style and kid-friendly functionality:

Flush Mount Ceiling Lights

Flushed mounted LED lighting fixtures installed in the ceiling are a popular choice for dispersing ambient light. Choosing options with a IP65 rating provides protection for placement above showers or bathtubs. There are flush mount lights designed specifically for bathrooms that come in fun shapes, colours and designs.

Vanity Light Strips

Vanity light strips help illuminate mirrors for easy grooming. For sinks, standard IP44 rated strips are fine since splashing is minimal. But for vanities right next to bathtubs, IP65 rated strips are better equipped to handle potential splashing.

Waterproof Recessed/Pot Lights

Recessed can lights or pot lights provide directed task lighting. For installation in shower recesses or by bathtubs, the fixtures should have an IP65 rating to withstand any stray water contact. Stainless steel or plastic housings hold up better than drywall cans in humid bathroom environments.

Mirror Lights

Creative LED lighting surrounding bathroom mirrors boosts visibility for grooming and adds decor. Water-resistant IP44 rating prevents condensation and splashes from damaging the lights. Kids will love the vibrant colours and fun lighting effects!

Pendants

Hanging pendants from the ceiling provides accent lighting and style. Keep pendant fixtures high above bathtubs and out of reach of kids’ splashing for safety. Opt for IP65 rated pendants near wet areas like tubs and showers.

Chandeliers

For elegant accent lighting, chandeliers can make a statement. However, traditional chandeliers with exposed bulbs and wiring are not designed for damp bathroom settings. If installing a chandelier in a bathroom, choose an IP44 rated fixture and place it away from shower/tub zones.

Night Lights

Night lights provide reassurance and visibility for middle-of-the-night bathroom visits. Place water-resistant night lights with IP44 rating near sinks and toilets for kids. Connecting the lights to a motion sensor allows them to turn on automatically when needed.

Choose fixtures with suitable IP ratings for each bathroom zone, and your children can safely see and enjoy their stylish new bathroom lighting. Give your kids’ bathroom an illuminating lighting makeover that looks fabulous and follows electrical safety best practices. With the right IP rated lights installed in wet areas, you can have peace of mind knowing your children are out of harm’s way.