Bathroom Wall Sconce Placement and Height Guide

Lighting is one of the most misunderstood (and most googled) parts of bathroom planning, especially when it comes to sconces.

You’ll see everything from fixtures mounted above the mirror to way off to the side... but not all of those choices are doing your space any favors. Sconce placement has clear, measurable rules that work in most layouts. Once you understand them, it’s a lot easier to avoid awkward shadows, poor visibility, and fixtures that feel “off.”

This quick guide breaks down where wall sconces should go, how high to mount them, and how to adjust for layout or style, all with simple, repeatable tips.

Standard Bathroom Wall Sconce Height

How high should bathroom sconces be?

The general rule: Mount wall sconces between 60" and 66" from the floor to the center of the fixture.

This keeps the light near face level for most adults, which helps with even, shadow-free illumination. For spaces with taller ceilings (9'+) or larger vanity mirrors, you can shift slightly higher, but still aim to keep the center of the bulb around eye height.

If your sconces have exposed bulbs or shades, double check where the actual light source sits, not just the center of the backplate.

Placing Sconces Next to the Mirror

When possible, use two sconces, one on each side of the mirror. This creates balanced lighting across the face (especially important for tasks like shaving or makeup).

Here’s how to space them:

• Space 36"–40" apart from each other

• Mount 1"–5" from the mirror edge (depending on mirror size)

• Ensure the bulb height falls around eye level (60"–66")

If your layout only allows for one sconce, a vertical fixture works best, placed on one side of the mirror or centered above a narrower vanity.

Vertical vs. Horizontal Sconces

While horizontal fixtures (mounted above the mirror) are common, vertical sconces on either side of the mirror provide better lighting.

Vertical Sconces:

• Better for even face lighting

• More forgiving with shadows

• Pairs well with most vanity widths

• Stylish and symmetrical

Horizontal Sconces:

• Can work when wall space is tight

• Best when paired with strong overhead or ambient lighting

• Can create under-eye or chin shadows if placed too high

If you’re only using one light source for the vanity, avoid relying on horizontal lighting alone, especially for larger mirrors.

Common Sconce Placement Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t let small errors throw off the whole look or functionality of your bathroom. Keep an eye out for these avoidable issues:

• Mounting sconces too high (causes unflattering shadows)

• Spacing sconces too far from the mirror (light doesn’t hit the face properly)

• Using only overhead lighting (creates harsh top-down shadows)

• Choosing the wrong bulb temperature (aim for 2700K–3000K for flattering, natural light)

• Mismatch between sconce finish and faucet/hardware (disrupts cohesion)

Quick Bathroom Sconce Placement Checklist

Bathroom Wall Sconce FAQs

How high should bathroom sconces be?

Bathroom wall sconces are typically mounted 60 to 66 inches from the floor to the center of the light source. This height aligns the light with the face for even illumination, though you can adjust slightly based on ceiling height, mirror size, or the primary users of the space.

Where should sconces be placed by a mirror?

Sconces should be installed on either side of the mirror, spaced about 36 to 40 inches apart. For the most balanced lighting, mount them close to the mirror’s edge, within 1 to 5 inches to minimize shadows and evenly light the face.

Are wall sconces better for bathroom lighting than overhead lights?

Wall sconces provide superior face-level lighting for grooming tasks, making them more flattering than overhead lights alone. However, they work best as part of a layered lighting plan that includes ambient or overhead lighting to ensure the entire bathroom is evenly lit.

Which Sconces Pair Best with Your Bathroom Style?

At Luxury Bath for Less, we carry designer bathroom sconces and lighting that match our most popular faucet and fixture finishes. Whether you’re going for modern minimal, warm traditional, or soft transitional, we’ve got curated pieces to make your lighting look intentional.