Why IP ratings matter for bathroom downlights
Bathrooms are classed as wet areas, so any downlights near the bath or shower must be protected against water. This protection is shown by an IP rating (Ingress Protection), such as IP20, IP44 or IP65. Choosing the wrong rating can mean lights that fail early – or fittings that simply aren’t suitable for the location.
What does an IP rating actually mean?
An IP rating has two numbers:
- First number – protection against solid objects (dust, fingers, tools).
- Second number – protection against water (drips, spray, jets, immersion).
For example:
- IP20 – basic indoor use, no water protection.
- IP44 – protected against splashing water from any direction.
- IP65 – dust tight and protected against low-pressure water jets.
For most UK bathrooms, you’ll see IP44 and IP65 used around baths and showers, while IP20 is common in drier areas of the ceiling.
Bathroom zones explained (0, 1, 2 and outside)
To make things clearer, bathrooms are split into zones. The closer you get to the bath or shower, the higher the protection required.
Zone 0 – inside the bath or shower area
Zone 0 is the interior of the bath or shower itself (the area that can be filled with water). Any fitting here must be low voltage (max 12 V) and have a rating of at least IP67 (suitable for immersion). In practice, most ceiling downlights are not installed directly in Zone 0.
Zone 1 – above the bath or shower
Zone 1 is the area above the bath or shower up to 2.25 m from the floor. In this zone, fittings should be at least IP44, and IP65 is commonly used for extra peace of mind – especially in shower areas where spray is more direct.
Zone 2 – around the bath or shower
Zone 2 covers a 0.6 m horizontal band around the edge of the bath or shower, again up to 2.25 m high. Here, fittings should also be at least IP44, because they can still be exposed to splashes and moisture.
Outside zones – the rest of the bathroom
Areas beyond Zone 2 are often called the "outside zones". In these drier areas of the ceiling, standard IP20 downlights are usually acceptable, assuming the room has normal ventilation and there’s no direct water spray.
Which IP rating do I need for my bathroom?
As a simple rule of thumb many UK installers follow:
- Above the bath or shower (Zone 1): choose IP44 or IP65.
- 0.6 m around bath/shower (Zone 2): choose IP44 or better.
- Rest of the room (outside zones): IP20 is normally acceptable.
For most modern UK bathrooms, a common approach is to use IP65 downlights in the shower area, and IP44 or IP20 elsewhere, depending on distance from the bath and the overall design.
Always check the latest wiring regulations (BS 7671 / IET Wiring Regulations) and work with a qualified electrician to confirm what’s suitable for your exact room layout. This guide is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for professional advice.
Fire rating, finish and colour temperature
IP rating is only one part of choosing bathroom downlights. You should also consider:
- Fire rating: Many ceilings in UK homes require fire-rated downlights to maintain the fire integrity of the structure.
- Finish: Chrome, white and black are the most popular choices. Black IP44 downlights can give a modern, minimal look, while chrome IP44 downlights blend neatly with taps and fittings.
- Colour temperature: Warm white (~2700–3000 K) is softer and relaxing, while neutral white (~4000 K) feels cleaner and brighter in bathrooms.
Example bathroom layouts
Every room is different, but here are three common scenarios UK electricians see regularly:
1. Small shower room
- 1–2 x IP65 downlights over the shower area (Zone 1).
- 1 x IP20 or IP44 downlight outside the shower, towards the door.
2. Standard family bathroom
- 2–3 x IP44 or IP65 downlights in the main ceiling area, positioned away from direct spray but still within Zones 1 and 2.
- Additional IP20 fittings in drier areas of the room (if needed).
3. Larger bathroom with separate shower
- 2 x IP65 downlights for the dedicated shower area.
- 3–4 x IP44 or IP20 fittings across the rest of the ceiling, depending on exact distances and ventilation.
In all cases, the final layout and product choice should be agreed with your electrician, who will assess cable routes, joists, insulation and any local building control requirements.
Recommended IP44 and IP65 downlights from Spot Downlights
Spot Downlights focuses only on ceiling downlight frames and fittings, so you’re not digging through strips or gadgets to find what you need. If you’re planning a bathroom project, you may find these ranges useful:
- MR11 black IP44 bathroom downlight – ideal for modern black bathroom hardware and dark trims.
- MR11 chrome IP44 downlight – works well with chrome taps, handles and accessories.
All fittings on Spot Downlights show clear IP ratings, cut-out sizes and lead times so you can order with confidence. You can also review our delivery information and returns policy before placing an order.
Need help choosing downlights for your bathroom?
If you’re unsure which IP rating or fitting style is right for your project, we’re happy to help. Share a simple sketch or room dimensions with your electrician and refer them to this guide when selecting suitable downlights.
Once your electrician is happy with the plan, you can order your bathroom downlights directly from Spot Downlights, knowing you’re working with a specialist in ceiling downlight frames and fittings.