When selecting lighting for your home, especially in bathrooms or outdoor areas, safety is just as important as style. That’s where IP ratings come in.
An IP (Ingress Protection) rating tells you how resistant a light fitting is to dust and moisture. It’s a global standard, defined by IEC 60529, that ensures fixtures perform reliably and safely in the environments they’re designed for.
Each IP rating is made up of two numbers:
- The first digit (0–6) shows the level of protection against solid objects, like dust.
- The second digit (0–9) indicates resistance to moisture and humidity.
The higher the number, the stronger the protection.
Common IP Ratings in Interior Design
IP20 Lighting
Most indoor lighting carries an IP20 rating, which offers basic protection against dust and accidental touch. It’s suitable for dry spaces such as living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways, and can also be used above a kitchen or utility sink as long as the fitting is at least 60cm away from the tap.
IP44 Lighting
For areas where moisture is present, such as bathrooms, IP44 fittings are the standard. These lights are splash-proof, making them safe to use near sinks, showers, and baths, as long as they’re installed in the correct bathroom zone.
IP65 Lighting
With full protection against dust and water jets, IP65 lights are ideal for outdoor use or moisture-heavy areas such as over-bathtub lighting. These fittings provide both safety and durability where exposure to water is unavoidable.
Bathroom Lighting and IP Rated Zones
Bathrooms are divided into zones (0–3) to define what lighting can be safely installed. Understanding these zones helps ensure your lighting is both stylish and compliant with safety regulations.
- Zone 0: Inside the bath or shower tray. Requires very high protection, at least IP67. Fixtures must also be low voltage (max 12v).
- Zone 1: The area directly above the bath or shower, up to 225cm high. Lights here need at least IP44.
- Zone 2: Extends 60cm around the bath, shower, or wash basin, and up to 225cm high. Minimum requirement: IP44.
- Zone 3: Anywhere outside zones 0, 1, and 2. No specific IP rating is required, but moisture-resistant fittings are still a smart choice.
Why IP Ratings Matter
Choosing the right IP rating ensures your lighting not only looks beautiful but also functions safely in the space it’s intended for. From a statement pendant in your hallway to task lighting above a vanity or wall lights near a garden terrace, understanding IP ratings helps you make the right choice every time.
At Zulufish, we carefully consider both design and technical specifications when planning lighting schemes, so your home is as safe as it is stylish.
