eLightBulbs Lighting Blog > Best Bathroom Bulbs

Lighting is a key component of a good bathroom.  This is the place where a person judges their own appearance, so it is important to have a color temperature that you like.  Compact fluorescent light bulbs are available in a range of color temperatures, from incandescent-like 2700K to natural sunlight emulating 6500K.

 

The "warm" light of incandescent light bulbs has long been the light under which we scrutinize ourselves before leaving the house.  2700K to 3000K color temperature compact fluorescents would probably suit most people best, as they most closely resemble the light of incandescents.  If you want to have familiar lighting from energy efficient light bulbs, the aforementioned low color temperatures will suit you best.

 

I've found that my preference is a much higher color temperature, more akin to sunlight.  6500K color temperature daylight compact fluorescent light bulbs, which provide clear white light with a hint of blue, are my favorite.  Daylight compact fluorescent light bulbs can make you forget that a room has no windows, or that the sun is actually down.  They're great for any bathroom, but especially bathrooms located in the basement.

 

If you enjoy higher color temperatures and whiter light, LED light bulbs are another excellent energy efficient choice.  They cost significantly more than compact fluorescents, but the lifetime of LED light bulbs can extend a few times beyond that of CFLs.  Currently LEDs are only available in higher color temperatures, so they're not a good choice if you prefer traditional lighting appearance.  Still, they're definitely worth keeping an eye on.  As technology improves you can expect LED light bulb prices to drop and options to widen.

 

For now and the near future, I would recommend compact fluorescent light bulbs as the best energy efficient option for bathroom lighting.  We've got tons of them available in all color temperatures, so take a look!