How to Remove a Shower Light Cover Safely and Easily

Hint: Don’t do it while showering

woman doing morning routine at home in bathroom
Photo: Tatiana Maksimova / Moment / Getty Images
woman doing morning routine at home in bathroom
Photo: Tatiana Maksimova / Moment / Getty Images
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Geo Icon

A lightbulb in the shower is more than just that moment when you suddenly have the greatest ideas of your life with nowhere to write them down. Shower lights add modernity, style, and much-needed illumination when you’re reaching for your shampoo. But what do you do if your shower light burns out? The first step involves changing the light’s cover, which is generally an easy task for DIYers. It does, however, require extra care and attention—remember, electricity and water do not mix! Follow this guide to shine a light on removing your shower light cover safely and easily.

Why Remove a Shower Light Cover?

Removing a shower light cover is necessary when you need to replace a burned-out bulb, but there are other reasons, too. 

For instance, over time, your shower light covers may develop a build-up of dirt and grime, causing your wattage to be less than luminary. In this case, removing the light covers will make it easier to give them a good, thorough cleaning. 

Or, if you’re growing bored with the look of your bathroom, you may decide to elevate your shower with new lighting. You’ll need to take off the shower light covers to remove the light fixtures from the ceiling in exchange for new ones. 

How To Remove a Shower Light Cover By Type

Recessed lights are often the most commonly used type of shower lighting. However, you may also have lighting in your shower exhaust fan. Follow these steps, broken down by type, to safely remove your shower light cover. 

Removing a Recessed Shower Light Cover

Recessed shower lights feature a flush-mount trim and a watertight cover to protect them from moisture. To remove the cover:

  1. Turn off the light switch that controls the shower lighting. You can also cut the power at the main breaker as an added precaution. 

  2. Place a rubber mat or thick towel on your shower floor to prevent slipping.

  3. If you need help reaching the shower light, use a step stool placed on top of the mat or towel. 

  4. Place your fingers on the clear part of the recessed light cover and apply light pressure with your fingertips while twisting it counterclockwise. 

  5. If the cover doesn’t twist off, you likely have a cover that pulls down. Grasp the circular perimeter (trim) with both hands or pry it with a putty knife to pop it free and pull it straight down.   

Removing a Light Cover on a Shower Exhaust Fan

Some shower exhaust fans also feature lights in their design. To remove the cover, locate the tab on the side of the exhaust fan, and use your finger to pull on the tab. This should loosen the cover and pull it free from the ceiling. You can also use a putty knife or screwdriver to pop the cover off. 

Tips for Dealing With Shower Lighting

Shower head on a bathroom ceramic tile wall and circular light fixture on the ceiling
Photo: Zen Rial / Moment / Getty Images

When you’re dealing with shower lighting—whether it’s removing a light cover or changing a bulb—it’s important to practice safety first. This is especially the case for bathrooms, which can have a high level of air and surface moisture after you’ve taken a bath or shower. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, which is why it’s imperative you switch off the power first.

  • Wait until the air is clear of moisture and all surfaces including the walls, ceiling, and light covers are dry. 

  • If you’ve had the lights turned on for any length of time, allow them to cool before touching them to avoid burns. 

  • If you’re changing a bulb, most experts recommend against using your bare hands. Put on some gloves before handling. 

Finally, consider the type of lighting for your shower. LED shower lights are low voltage and a safer alternative than bulbs with a higher wattage. As an additional safety measure, have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) installed. A GFCI detects the loss of electrical current and immediately deactivates the circuit, minimizing the risk of shocks or electrocution.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Removing a shower lighting cover is a fairly simple process to DIY and requires little to no tools to get the job done. However, when it comes to more complex procedures, such as installing new lighting fixtures or rewiring the electricity in your bathroom, it might be a good idea to hire an electrician or your local light fixture installation professional.

If you choose to use a pro, most bathroom lighting installations only take a couple of hours. Hiring an electrician costs between $160 and $535 on average, depending on the number of lighting fixtures and complexity. 

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
The homeowners guide to lights
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Dining area and kitchen with beautiful hanging lights
Jul 19, 2024
Jul 19, 2024
Light fixtures are important elements in any home. Find out how much it costs to install a light fixture based on factors like type, location, and labor.
home kitchen with island and bar stools, wood accents, and recessed lighting
Jul 10, 2024
Jul 10, 2024
Looking to give your room a little lighting love? Learn more about the cost to install recessed lighting based on the features in your home in this helpful guide.
Modern kitchen with under cabinet lighting
Nov 9, 2023
Nov 9, 2023
Under-cabinet lighting can add major impact and luxury for a relatively low cost. Find out the average under-cabinet lighting cost.
Man replacing light bulb
Dec 6, 2023
Dec 6, 2023
Changing a light bulb in a light fixture is an easy home project for beginners. Learn how to change a fluorescent light bulb yourself in just a few steps.
father helping daughter change recessed light bulb
Jul 19, 2024
Jul 19, 2024
You don’t always need a pro for recessed lighting fixes. Learn how to change a recessed light bulb on your own for an easy, affordable home repair.
A woman working from her home office with cool lights
Dec 7, 2023
Dec 7, 2023
Choosing between warm vs. cool lighting can set the mood and functionality of a space. Learn more about the differences for your own home.