IP ratings explained
IP ratings (Ingress Protection) tell you how well a light fixture is protected against solid objects (like dust) and water. Choosing the right IP rating keeps your lighting safe and reliable—indoors, in bathrooms, and outdoors in all weather. This guide explains what IP means, how to read the two-digit code, and which IP rating to pick per situation.
What does IP mean?
IP stands for International (Ingress) Protection. An IP code has two digits, e.g. IP65:
First digit (0–6): protection against touch and solid particles (dust).
Second digit (0–8): protection against water ingress.
Example: IP65 = dust-tight (6) and protected against water jets (5). If a digit is replaced with X (e.g., IPX4), that part hasn’t been specified.
Which IP rating do I need?
- Dry indoor areas (living room, bedroom): IP20 is typically sufficient.
- Damp/occasionally wet areas (splash-prone but no direct jets): start from IP44.
- Direct water jets / heavy exposure: choose IP65 or higher.
- Immersion (e.g., pond lights): choose IP67 or higher.
Common IP codes for luminaires
| IP code | Meaning (water protection) |
|---|---|
| IP20 | IPX0: Not protected against water. |
| IP21 / IP41 | IPX1: Dripping water (vertical) protected. |
| IP22 | IPX2: Dripping water protected even when tilted 15°. |
| IP23 | IPX3: Spraying water protected (up to 60°). |
| IP44 / IP54 | IPX4: Splashing water protected from any direction. |
| IP65 | IPX5: Water jets protected from any direction. |
| IP66 | IPX6: Powerful water jets protected. |
| IP67 | IPX7: Temporary immersion protected. |
| IP68 | IPX8: Continuous immersion protected (suitable for use under water). |
Bathroom IP ratings
Bathrooms need special attention because of moisture and water contact:
- Lighting that may be submerged (e.g., in a bath) should be at least IPX7.
- Lighting that can be hit by spray or splashes (e.g., near a shower wall) should be at least IPX4.
- If the light has no water contact, IPX1 is sufficient.
Explore our bathroom lighting
Bathroom lighting helps you relax and function safely every day. Modern bathroom fixtures must meet strict safety rules because electricity and moisture don’t mix. Discover categories that create the optimal lighting plan for your bathroom. After choosing a category, you can filter by colour and material.
Outdoor & garden IP ratings
Outdoor lights face rain, wind and hail—choose the right protection:
- Mounted against the house (some shelter): at least IP44.
- Under a veranda/overhang or soffit spots: IP23 or higher is usually sufficient.
- Exposed in the garden / pond (away from the house or underwater): at least IP67.
Explore our garden lighting
Before shopping, make a simple lighting plan so you know exactly where each fixture goes. A garden lighting plan helps you search efficiently for matching outdoor lights. After choosing a category, filter by colour and material to refine your selection.