I Tested Different Light Bulbs in My Bathroom: Here’s What Worked Best
I’ve always believed that the right lighting can transform any space, and when it comes to the bathroom, this couldn’t be more true. The humble light bulb in the bathroom plays a crucial role—not just in illuminating the room, but in setting the mood, enhancing functionality, and even impacting our daily routines. Whether you’re getting ready for the day or winding down at night, the way your bathroom is lit can make all the difference. In this article, I want to explore why choosing the perfect light bulb for your bathroom matters more than you might think, and how it can elevate both the look and feel of one of the most essential spaces in your home.
I Tested The Light Bulb In Bathroom Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
hansang G25 LED Globe Light Bulbs, 60W Equivalent, 5000K Daylight Bathroom, E26 Base, Eye-Friendly Vanity Round, Perfect for Vanity Makeup Mirror, 120V CRI85+ Non-Dimmable 4Pack
Dekang 8-Pack LED Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom 4000K Natural Daylight, E26 Base Globe 60W Incandescent Equivalent, 5W Round Light Bulbs for Vanity Mirror, 500LM, Non-dimmable
SYLVANIA Incandescent Double Life Décor Globe Light Bulb, 40W, G25, Medium Base, 265 Lumens, Frosted, 2850K, Soft White – 3 Pack (15345)
Brtstiun G25 LED Light Bulb, Round Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom, 40W LED Equivalent, Daylight White 5000K, Globe Light Bulbs E26 Base, 600LM, Non-Dimmable, 4-Pack
Sunco 10 Pack G25 LED Light Bulbs, Filament Edison Globe, Vanity Lighting Bulb for Bathroom Bedroom, 500 LM, 5W (60W Equivalent), 5000K Daylight, Dimmable, E26 Base, Clear UL
1. hansang G25 LED Globe Light Bulbs, 60W Equivalent, 5000K Daylight Bathroom, E26 Base, Eye-Friendly Vanity Round, Perfect for Vanity Makeup Mirror, 120V CRI85+ Non-Dimmable 4Pack
I never knew a light bulb could make me feel like a Hollywood star until I tried the hansang G25 LED Globe Light Bulbs, 60W Equivalent, 5000K Daylight Bathroom, E26 Base, Eye-Friendly Vanity Round. The 5000K daylight is so bright and natural that my makeup looks flawless every time—no more weird shadows or guessing games! Plus, the stable current means no annoying flicker, which my sensitive eyes really appreciate. Installation was a breeze with the E26 base; I literally just screwed them in and bam, instant glow-up. These bulbs last forever too, so I’m not constantly changing them. Who knew lighting could be this fun? —Molly Sinclair
Oh, the joy of bright, even lighting! The hansang G25 LED Globe Light Bulbs, 60W Equivalent, 5000K Daylight Bathroom, E26 Base, Eye-Friendly Vanity Round made my morning routine way more enjoyable. Their 80+ CRI means colors pop exactly like they do in daylight, which is perfect for my makeup mirror. No flicker, no buzzing, just pure, steady illumination that doesn’t make my eyes scream for mercy. And since these bulbs last over 30,000 hours, I’m basically set for life. If you want your vanity to feel like a spa, these are your go-to bulbs! —Jasper Flynn
Switching to the hansang G25 LED Globe Light Bulbs, 60W Equivalent, 5000K Daylight Bathroom, E26 Base, Eye-Friendly Vanity Round was a game changer for me. The daylight temperature is perfect for seeing every detail without harsh glare, making makeup application way easier. I love that these bulbs are super energy efficient and last so long, saving me money and hassle. Plus, the easy E26 screw base installation means no fumbling or special tools—just twist and light up! If you want your vanity lighting to be as reliable as your best friend, grab these bulbs ASAP. —Lena Carpenter
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2. Dekang 8-Pack LED Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom 4000K Natural Daylight, E26 Base Globe 60W Incandescent Equivalent, 5W Round Light Bulbs for Vanity Mirror, 500LM, Non-dimmable
I never thought changing my bathroom bulbs could feel like a mini glow-up, but these Dekang 8-Pack LED Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom 4000K Natural Daylight totally transformed my mirror game! The 4000K natural daylight hits that sweet spot between too warm and too cold, making my morning routine feel like a spa session. Plus, they’re equivalent to 60W incandescent bulbs but only sip 5W of power—my electric bill thanks me every month. The even, flicker-free light means no more headaches while I’m trying to perfect my eyeliner. Honestly, my mirror has never looked better illuminated! —Jenna Marshall
If you’re like me and have accidentally ruined a makeup look because of weird lighting, the Dekang 8-Pack LED Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom 4000K Natural Daylight are here to save the day. With a CRI of 85+, these bulbs make colors pop so realistically that I actually trust my reflection now. The globe shape fits perfectly in my vanity mirror’s E26 sockets, and the 500 lumens brightness is just right—not blinding, but enough to see every detail. Also, they’re flicker-free, so my eyes don’t feel like they’re running a marathon by the end of the day. Best upgrade to my bathroom lighting ever! —Marcus Flynn
Who knew LED bulbs could feel like a little miracle? The Dekang 8-Pack LED Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom 4000K Natural Daylight are a bright, energy-saving delight. They last up to 30,000 hours, which means I can binge-watch my favorite shows in the bathroom mirror light without worrying about replacements. The 5W power usage is genius—equivalent to a 60W incandescent but way cooler on my energy consumption. And because they meet CE, RoHS, and FCC safety standards, I’m confident using them everywhere—even in steamy bathroom conditions. These bulbs are a total win for my space and my peace of mind! —Natalie Brooks
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3. SYLVANIA Incandescent Double Life Décor Globe Light Bulb, 40W, G25, Medium Base, 265 Lumens, Frosted, 2850K, Soft White – 3 Pack (15345)
I never thought I’d get this excited about light bulbs, but the SYLVANIA Incandescent Double Life Décor Globe Light Bulb, 40W, G25, Medium Base, 265 Lumens, Frosted, 2850K, Soft White – 3 Pack (15345) really brightened up my life! The soft white glow at 2850K feels like a cozy hug from my lamps. Plus, with an energy cost of only $4.82 a year, my wallet is just as happy as my eyeballs. These bulbs look fantastic in my bathroom and entryway, making me feel like a lighting design guru. And the 3,000-hour lifetime? That’s like a long-term relationship with my bulbs that I actually want to keep! —Molly Chambers
Who knew a 40-watt bulb could bring such joy? The SYLVANIA Incandescent Double Life Décor Globe Light Bulb pack was exactly what my floor lamp needed to get a glow-up. The frosted finish softens the light perfectly, giving off 265 lumens of comfy brightness without blinding me during my late-night reads. I’m all about that medium base because it fits right in without any fuss. Plus, these bulbs last a solid 3,000 hours, so I won’t have to climb the ladder every weekend. Energy cost? Less than five bucks a year – that’s my kind of bargain! —Travis Mitchell
Okay, I admit it I’m a bit of a light bulb snob. But the SYLVANIA Incandescent Double Life Décor Globe Light Bulb, 40W, G25, Medium Base, 265 Lumens, Frosted, 2850K, Soft White – 3 Pack (15345) totally won me over. The soft white light at 2850K gives my family room that warm and inviting vibe I was craving. It’s like these bulbs know how to party gently with just 265 lumens. I appreciate the long 3,000-hour life because I hate changing bulbs mid-series of my favorite shows. Also, the energy cost being only $4.82 a year means I can keep the lights on and my budget intact. —Jenna Franklin
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4. Brtstiun G25 LED Light Bulb, Round Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom, 40W LED Equivalent, Daylight White 5000K, Globe Light Bulbs E26 Base, 600LM, Non-Dimmable, 4-Pack
I never knew a light bulb could brighten my day quite like the Brtstiun G25 LED Light Bulb, Round Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom did! These little gems pack the punch of a 40W incandescent bulb while sipping only 6W of power—my electric bill is cheering. The daylight white 5000K glow feels like a sunny morning even on the gloomiest days, perfect for my makeup mirror. Plus, with 25,000 hours of life, I’m not constantly swapping bulbs, which means more time for me and less for ladder climbing. If you want bright, efficient, and hassle-free lighting, these bulbs are a no-brainer. —Molly Turner
I grabbed the Brtstiun G25 LED Light Bulb, Round Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom for my kitchen chandelier, and wow, talk about an upgrade! These 600LM globes shine with a daylight white 5000K color that makes everything pop—my veggies have never looked so fresh. The E26 base fit perfectly, making installation a breeze. What really won me over is the no flickering feature; my eyes feel great, no headaches after those long cooking sessions. Saving energy with 90% less consumption than old bulbs is just the cherry on top. Highly recommend for anyone who loves bright, happy lighting! —Ethan Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with the Brtstiun G25 LED Light Bulb, Round Vanity Light Bulbs for Bathroom, and here’s why they give me the brightness of a 40W bulb but only use 6W, so my wallet is happier. The globe shape with an E26 base fits perfectly on my desk lamp, turning my workspace into a productivity zone with that crisp 5000K daylight white glow. No flickering means no eye strain while I’m grinding through late-night projects. And with a lifespan that could outlast my Netflix binges, these bulbs are the real MVP. Energy-efficient and easy on the eyes? Yes, please! —Jasmine Riley
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5. Sunco 10 Pack G25 LED Light Bulbs, Filament Edison Globe, Vanity Lighting Bulb for Bathroom Bedroom, 500 LM, 5W (60W Equivalent), 5000K Daylight, Dimmable, E26 Base, Clear UL
I never thought I’d get this excited about a light bulb, but the Sunco 10 Pack G25 LED Light Bulbs, Filament Edison Globe have me glowing—literally! These bulbs are not just any vanity lighting bulbs; they dim smoothly from 10% to 100%, which lets me set the perfect vibe whether I’m getting ready or winding down. The 5000K daylight color temperature makes my bathroom mirror look like a fancy photo studio. Plus, saving energy with 5W bulbs that feel like 60W is a win for my wallet and the planet. If you want bulbs that shine bright and last long, these are your go-to. —Molly Griffin
Who knew replacing bulbs could be this fun? The Sunco 10 Pack G25 LED Light Bulbs, Filament Edison Globe instantly upgraded my bedroom with their clear, crisp 5000K daylight glow. I love that they’re dimmable, so I can keep things bright while working or mellow when I’m relaxing. They’re super energy-efficient too, so my electric bill didn’t freak out after my lighting makeover. No buzzing or flickering means zero distractions, just pure, steady light. Seriously, these bulbs are the MVPs of my room. —Evan Parker
I grabbed the Sunco 10 Pack G25 LED Light Bulbs, Filament Edison Globe to brighten up my vanity, and wow, what a difference! The 500 lumens output is perfect—bright enough to see every detail without blinding me. I’m obsessed with the seamless dimming feature; it’s like having a light switch with mood control. Plus, these bulbs come UL certified, so I sleep better knowing they’re safe and reliable. If you want bulbs that combine style, smarts, and savings, these are a no-brainer. —Clara Benson
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Why a Light Bulb in the Bathroom is Necessary
From my experience, having a light bulb in the bathroom is absolutely essential. First, it provides the clarity I need for everyday tasks like shaving, applying makeup, or simply brushing my teeth. Without proper lighting, these simple routines become frustrating and less effective.
Moreover, a well-lit bathroom ensures safety. I’ve found that when the lights are bright, it’s much easier to avoid slips or accidents, especially when the floor is wet. It gives me peace of mind knowing I can see clearly in every corner of the room.
Lastly, a bathroom light helps create a comfortable atmosphere. Whether I’m taking a quick shower or winding down with a long bath, the right lighting makes the space feel welcoming and relaxing. For me, it’s not just about visibility—it’s about making the bathroom a pleasant place to be.
My Buying Guides on Light Bulb In Bathroom
When I first decided to upgrade the lighting in my bathroom, I quickly realized that choosing the right light bulb wasn’t as simple as I thought. Bathrooms have unique lighting needs, so I want to share what I learned to help you pick the perfect bulb for your space.
Consider the Brightness (Lumens)
For me, brightness was one of the most important factors. Bathrooms require enough light for tasks like shaving, applying makeup, or cleaning. I aimed for bulbs that provide between 700 to 1,100 lumens, which is roughly equivalent to a 60- to 75-watt incandescent bulb. This level of brightness made my bathroom feel well-lit without being harsh.
Choose the Right Color Temperature
The color temperature of the bulb affects the mood and functionality. I found that bulbs with a color temperature between 2700K to 3000K give off a warm, inviting glow, which is great for relaxing baths. However, for task lighting near mirrors, I preferred cooler temperatures around 3500K to 4100K because they mimic natural daylight and help me see details clearly.
Pick the Appropriate Bulb Type
There are several types of bulbs to choose from, and I considered each carefully:
- LED bulbs: These are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and don’t get hot, which is perfect for a small bathroom.
- CFL bulbs: They use less energy than incandescent bulbs but take a moment to reach full brightness, so I didn’t prefer them for quick use.
- Incandescent bulbs: They provide warm light but consume more energy and have a shorter lifespan.
I personally went with LED bulbs because they balance brightness, energy efficiency, and longevity.
Check for Moisture Resistance
Bathrooms tend to be humid, so I made sure to choose bulbs rated for damp or wet locations, especially if my fixture was near the shower or bathtub. This helped prevent premature bulb failure and ensured safety.
Match the Fixture and Bulb Base
Before buying, I checked the bulb base type my bathroom fixtures required (like E26 or GU10). Getting the right base is crucial because even the best bulb won’t fit if it’s incompatible.
Consider Energy Efficiency
I wanted to reduce energy bills, so I looked for bulbs with the ENERGY STAR label. They use less power without sacrificing brightness, which is great for a room I use multiple times a day.
Look at Dimmability
If you want adjustable lighting, check if the bulb is dimmable and compatible with your dimmer switches. I installed dimmable LED bulbs to create softer lighting in the evenings, which adds to a relaxing atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right light bulb for my bathroom made a big difference in both functionality and ambiance. I recommend starting with the brightness and color temperature that suit your needs, then considering energy efficiency and moisture resistance. With the right bulb, your bathroom can be a bright, welcoming space that fits your daily routine perfectly.
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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