If your bathroom feels a bit dark and cramped, don’t fret. There are various ways to invite more sunshine into your space, turning it into a bright, welcoming sanctuary. Let’s explore how you can fill your bathroom with more natural light with the help of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Schaumburg, a top search result when you look up “bathroom contractor near me” online.

How to Draw More Natural Light Into Your Bathroom

Drawing more natural light into your bathroom can make the space feel brighter, more inviting and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:

Choose the Right Windows

The windows in your bathroom play a crucial role in determining how much sunlight flows through. It’s about more than just size; the type of glass, the design and even the direction your window faces can all impact the light levels. Most bathroom contractors recommend the following choices, as they provide the perfect balance for your privacy and daylighting needs:

• Picture Windows. Picture windows are large, fixed-pane windows that don’t open. They offer unobstructed views and allow ample sunlight to enter the bathroom. Picture windows are ideal for bathrooms that don’t require ventilation or where privacy is not a concern.
• Clerestory Windows. Clerestory windows are positioned high on the wall near the ceiling, allowing natural light to enter the bathroom while maintaining privacy. They are particularly effective in bathrooms with tall ceilings, as they bring in light without sacrificing wall space. 
• Transom Windows. Transom windows are small windows placed above the main bathroom window or door. They help bring in additional light while maintaining privacy, as they are typically positioned higher on the wall.
• Frosted or Obscured Glass Windows – If privacy is a concern, consider using frosted or obscured glass for bathroom windows. Even with their near opaqueness, these windows can still allow natural light to filter through.
• Awning Windows. Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward, and are a good choice for bathrooms on higher floors or where privacy is necessary while allowing ventilation and light.
• Sliding Windows. Sliding windows are practical for bathrooms with limited space around the window area. They can be opened partially to allow ventilation while letting in natural light.

Use Light-Colored or Reflective Surfaces

Choose light-colored tiles, paint and accessories for your bathroom to maximize the reflection of natural light. Light hues can bounce light around the space, making it feel more open and airy.

Install Skylights or Sun Tunnels

If your bathroom lacks windows or has limited access to natural light, consider installing skylights or sun tunnels. These features can bring in abundant sunlight from above, brightening up the room and creating a pleasant ambiance. Skylights are excellent options for bathrooms with limited wall space or for adding natural light to windowless bathrooms.

Keep Window Treatments Simple

If you have window treatments in your bathroom, opt for simple and light materials that allow light to filter through even when closed. Sheer curtains or blinds can be a great choice to maintain privacy while still letting natural light in.

Trim Landscaping Outside the Window

If your bathroom windows face a garden or outdoor area, ensure that trees or plants are not obstructing the view. Trimming the landscaping outside the window can optimize the amount of sunlight that enters your bathroom.

By implementing these tips, you can transform your bathroom into a brighter, more cheerful space, enhancing the overall ambiance and comfort of your home.

Why You Need More Light in Your Bathroom

Bringing more natural light into your bathroom is not only aesthetically pleasing but also offers several significant advantages that can enhance your overall well-being and the functionality of the space. Here are some key reasons why natural light is essential in a bathroom:

• Enhanced Mood and Well-Being. Natural light positively impacts our mood and overall well-being. Exposure to natural sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of happiness and relaxation.
• Improved Visibility and Safety. Adequate natural light in the bathroom ensures better visibility, reducing the risk of accidents and falls. It allows you to see more clearly when using the mirror, stepping in and out of the shower or performing other tasks, especially in the morning.
• Visual Space Expansion. Natural light can make a small bathroom appear more spacious and open. It helps eliminate shadows and dark corners, creating the illusion of a larger area, even in compact bathrooms.
• Reduced Moisture and Odors. Sunlight can help dry out excess moisture and humidity in the bathroom, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth. It also helps to naturally eliminate odors, keeping the space fresher and more pleasant.
• Energy Efficiency. Incorporating natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day, leading to energy savings and lower electricity bills.
• Privacy and Ventilation: Well-placed windows or skylights in the bathroom can offer natural ventilation while maintaining privacy. Proper ventilation helps prevent condensation and promotes a healthier indoor environment.

Let’s Start a Conversation!

Picturing a brighter bathroom is easy, but making it come to life might require a little assistance. A professional bathroom remodeler, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Schaumburg, knows exactly how to maximize your bathroom space’s lighting potential. Call our team at (847) 973-5097, or fill out our contact form if you’re ready for a ray-filled revamp. Our service areas include Arlington Heights, Elk Grove, Palatine, Hoffman Estates and Bartlett. Let’s brighten up your bathroom today!