A recent bathroom styling tip has been praised by people planning to try it for themselves as they “never knew they needed” it, but experts have warned it could be dangerous
A bathroom design trick praised by interior enthusiasts for creating a “cosy” and calming atmosphere has come under fire from experts. Many people are searching for simple, fuss-free decorating ideas to brighten up their homes without breaking the bank, but not all of them are necessarily as safe as they might appear.
Plenty turn to social media seeking tips and tricks, with a recent “hack” clocking up millions of views for TikTok user Jess. In the clip, which has so far attracted more than six million views, Jess can be seen walking into her bathroom and gesturing for the person holding the camera to follow.
She then reveals her shower arrangement which has been fitted out with numerous features including one peculiar and unexpected addition – a lamp.
This battery operated lamp provides a warm, gentle glow to the area while Jess said it added “ambience”.
In the comments section, fellow TikTok users were eager to share their thoughts.
One person joked: “I have not been showering at my full potential”. Another said: “Showering in ambient lighting is so important”.
A third commented: “Never knew I needed a shower lamp until just now” while another said their own shower lamp “has upped [their] showers 100%”.
But interior lighting experts at Pooky have warned that directly copying the viral TikTok trend could be dangerous.
A Pooky spokesperson said: “During the winter months, making cosy spaces within your home is so important. But when adding lighting to your bathroom, it’s essential to do so safely to avoid electrical accidents.
“You can’t just add any old lamp or light into your bathroom, especially near the bath or shower. For safety, bathroom lights must have the right IP rating to handle moisture and splashes.”
To give your bathroom that calming, spa-inspired lighting effect safely, the specialists recommend installing rechargeable lights in areas that don’t come into any contact with water – such as shelves, cupboards or sideboards.
They said: “The bathroom is often a neglected area of the house, especially when it comes to lighting. Introducing warm lighting into your bathroom with the use of a rechargeable lamp is a great way to add a spa vibe to your day by reducing the need for bright lights.”
The professionals stated gentle lighting can help “promote a sense of relaxation” in the bathroom, while also “improving your mood”.
This is because moving from other parts of the home with dim lighting into a “luminescent bathroom” can “jumpstart your brain, making it difficult to relax and lower your cortisol levels, which can make it harder to fall asleep”.
Installing lamps in the bathroom can assist with this, cutting down the requirement for the main bathroom light.
Pooky specialists added: “If you are unable to change your wired bathroom lights, don’t worry. Rechargeable lamps free you from the constraints of cords and the hassle of organising electrician visits.
“Making them perfect for renters or those looking for a quick way to elevate their space and eliminate the need to use your big light.”