Quick answer: An IP (Ingress Protection) rating has two digits: the first (0–6) scores protection against solids like dust and fingers, the second (0–9) against water. For UK installations: IP20 suits normal dry indoor rooms, IP44 is the minimum for splash-prone areas including bathroom Zone 2 (and Zone 1 fittings on most jobs), IP65 is dust-tight and jet-proof for outdoors, wet rooms and commercial cleaning areas. Higher second digits (IPX7/X8) are for immersion — bathroom Zone 0.
How to read an IP rating
| Rating | Protection | Where it's used |
|---|---|---|
| IP20 | Fingers/solids >12.5mm; no water protection | Standard indoor switches & sockets |
| IP44 | Solids >1mm; splashes from any direction | Bathroom Zones 1–2, covered outdoor areas |
| IP55 | Dust-protected; low-pressure jets | Outdoor sockets, garages, workshops |
| IP65 | Dust-tight; water jets | Exposed outdoors, wet rooms, commercial kitchens, emergency lighting in car parks |
| IPX7 / IPX8 | Temporary / continuous immersion | Bathroom Zone 0 (12V SELV fittings) |
Where the rules bite: bathrooms and outdoors
Bathrooms: BS 7671 divides the room into zones — Zone 0 needs IPX7 12V fittings, Zone 1 fittings are typically IP44 minimum (IP65 where water jets are likely), Zone 2 needs IP44. Our bathroom zones guide maps each zone with a diagram, and the bathroom & wet room buying guide lists compliant products. Outdoors: anything exposed to rain should be IP55 minimum; IP65 is the safe default — see the outdoor & weatherproof buying guide. Hotels & HMOs: inspectors check IP compliance during the EICR — wrong fittings in Zones 1–2 are a classic C2 defect.
Frequently asked questions
What does the X mean in IPX4?
X means "not tested" for that digit — IPX4 confirms splash protection but makes no claim about dust. It does not mean zero protection.
Is IP44 OK in a bathroom?
Yes for Zones 1 and 2 in most domestic bathrooms (Zone 1 assumes splashing, not jets). Inside the bath or shower tray itself (Zone 0) you need IPX7 low-voltage fittings.
Do sockets in kitchens need an IP rating?
Standard IP20 sockets are fine in kitchens provided they're sensibly placed (300mm+ from the sink edge is the rule of thumb). Commercial wash-down kitchens are different — specify IP65.
What IP rating for outdoor sockets?
IP55 minimum when in use; many outdoor sockets achieve IP66 with the cover closed. Pair with RCD protection — see our outdoor power range.
Shop by rating
- IP44 bathroom switch & socket pack
- Outdoor power (IP-rated)
- Emergency lighting incl. IP65 twinspots
- Fan isolator switches
Speccing a full refurb? Open a trade account for trade pricing. Always confirm ratings against the product datasheet and BS 7671 for your installation.