Round globe bulbs, such as the G25, 3-1/8" across, are often used in vanity lights. Check the old bulb’s base before you choose, and pick a bulb rated for damp locations.
What does the old vanity bulb look like?
Switch the light off and let the bulb cool before you take it out.
What does the base look like?
With the power off and the bulb cool, compare its base with a bulb you know.
What fits
A globe bulb, such as a G25
A G25 is 3-1/8" across.
On the package: G25, E26 or E12, damp rated
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Match the code on the two-pin bulb
Small two-pin bulbs come with different bases, such as G4, GU5.3 and G9, and the bulbs don’t swap.
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E26 medium base
The standard US screw base. Europe’s E27 looks alike but is used mainly on 220-240 volt systems.
On the package: E26 (medium)
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E12 candelabra base
The small US screw base of chandeliers, nightlights and decorative fixtures.
On the package: E12 (candelabra)
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E17 intermediate base
Between E12 and E26 in size, used in microwaves, refrigerators and other appliances.
On the package: E17 (intermediate)
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GU10 or GU24
Both push in and twist. GU10 is mostly on spotlights; GU24 also comes on regular-shaped bulbs such as an A19.
On the package: GU10, or GU24
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Before you change any bulb, turn the power off and let the old bulb cool.
Globe sizes and length
Globe bulbs are often used where the bulb shows, as over a bathroom mirror or in a pendant. The number in the code is the width in eighths of an inch, and GE names the bigger G30 for bathroom vanities. The code doesn’t give the length. Westinghouse’s 6 watt G25 is 4.33" long and Feit’s 60 watt replacement G25 is 4.5".
Damp or wet
OSHA’s electrical rules call a place with moderate moisture, such as some basements, a damp location. A wet location is one exposed to the weather or soaked with water.
Westinghouse’s G25 is rated for damp locations, and for wet ones only inside an outdoor-rated fixture. Over a shower or tub, where spray can reach the light, the safer choice is a fixture marked for wet locations with a bulb whose box allows it there. If you can’t tell, treat the spot as wet.
What the specs show
- Westinghouse 5323000: G25, E26 base, 590 lumens on 6 watts, suitable for damp locations, approved for enclosed fixtures.
- Feit G2560/927CA/FIL: G25, E26 base, 500 lumens on 5.5 watts, safety location damp, enclosed fixture rated, listed for bath and vanity.
Glass shades that close around the bulbs: see enclosed fixtures.
For brightness, see watts to lumens. The color of the light is your choice. 2700K vs 3000K vs 4000K compares them.
On a dimmer
Westinghouse’s G25 is marked as possibly not compatible with every dimmer, and its spec sheet lists the dimmer models that are compatible. Check for a list like that before you put globe LEDs on a dimmer.
Replacing the vanity fixture itself means working on house wiring. Turn the breaker off, and call an electrician if you’re unsure.
Flicker or buzz on a dimmer?
LEDs on a dimmer