Looking in the mirror is often the first thing we do when entering a bathroom. A well-chosen mirror not only reflects our image but brings light, style, and functionality to the room. With the wide variety of options available today, selecting the ideal mirror to suit your needs and décor can be an exciting yet challenging experience. This comprehensive guide explores the ins and outs of shopping for the perfect bathroom mirror.
Introduction
A beautiful, high-quality bathroom mirror is like the cherry on top, completing your dream bathroom’s look and making it truly shine. Beyond simply providing reflection, mirrors can create the illusion of more space, allow more natural light in, provide handy storage, and effortlessly elevate the style of any bath.
But with endless options to select from, how do you narrow your choices down to the mirror that will work best for your unique bathroom layout, dimensions, lighting, and décor? This detailed guide will walk you through the basics of the factors to keep in mind when shopping for a new bathroom mirror.
We’ll discuss the different types, shapes, styles, and special features of mirrors available today. You’ll learn bathroom mirror measurement tips, recommendations for lighting, and considerations for matching your mirror to your existing fittings and features. We’ll also provide styling inspiration with examples of popular mirror options for a variety of bathroom layouts and designs.
Follow our tips to take the guesswork out of choosing the perfect mirror. Then avoid buyer’s remorse by picking the mirror that flawlessly reflects your needs, taste, and personality. With the ideal mirror in place, get ready to adore your beautiful, fully pulled-together bathroom oasis!
Understanding the Basics of Bathroom Mirrors
Before diving straight into shopping, let’s cover some bathroom mirror basics. Mirrors come in a variety of shapes, sizes, styles and materials to suit any space. Consider the following factors:
Types of Bathroom Mirrors
There are two main categories of bathroom mirrors:
- Framed mirrors: The mirror glass fits into a frame, usually made from wood, metal or plastic. Framed mirrors have a more traditional, ornate aesthetic.
- Frameless mirrors: As the name suggests, the mirror has no frame. The edges of the mirror are beveled or polished for a sleek contemporary look.
Materials Used in Bathroom Mirrors
- Glass is the most common mirror material. Regular soda lime glass is heavy and prone to breaking. Mirrored acrylic is lightweight but scratches easily.
- Wood frames come in oak, cherry, walnut, teak and a range of stains or paint colors. Watch for mold in humid bathrooms.
- Metal like iron, brass, steel or chrome offer sleek choices if avoiding rust from bathroom moisture.
- Plastics like PVC and polyethylene are affordable options resistant to both rust and mold.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Mirror
Consider the following when choosing the perfect bathroom mirror:
- Size – Measure your space and imagine the mirror size you want before shopping. This prevents purchasing one too small or too overpowering.
- Shape – Rectangular, oval, round and unique shapes each create a different aesthetic.
- Style – Match traditional, modern, contemporary or eclectic bath decor styles.
- Lighting – Illuminated and backlit mirrors work well for dark bathrooms.
- Features – Shelving, anti-fog, heating and more features are available.
Now that we’ve covered the mirror basics, let’s look at each factor to consider in detail. This will help you assess your options and zero in on the ideal mirror for your bath.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Mirror
Choosing a mirror requires considering your existing bathroom size, lighting, style and special features you may desire. Assess the following factors:
Size: How to Measure and Choose the Right Size for Your Bathroom Mirror
Bathroom mirror size should fit both your physical space and visual appeal. Follow these tips:
- For adequate reflection, choose a mirror about 24-30 inches tall for a single vanity or 36-48 inches for a double vanity.
- Measure your vanity or wall space the mirror will occupy. Allow 2-3 inches on all sides for the frame or beveled edges.
- Mimic the width of your vanity top. For a statement, make it slightly wider. For tight spaces, slightly smaller.
- Taller mirrors make rooms appear larger and brighter. Wider mirrors make narrow rooms appear expanded.
- For small bathrooms, limit mirror size to avoid an overwhelming, crowded look.
- Consider the scale compared to surrounding tiles, sinks, sconces and other elements. Don’t overpower.
Selecting the properly sized mirror prevents visual imbalance while maximizing light and spaciousness. Carefully measure and make note of your ideal width and height before shopping.
Shape: Round, Square or Oval? How to Choose the Best Shape for Your Bathroom
Bathroom mirror shapes play a big role in the overall aesthetic:
- Round mirrors – softer, feminine look. Flexible size options. Can feel traditional.
- Square mirrors – symmetrical and sleek. Right angles match tilework. Look modern.
- Rectangle mirrors – traditional appearance. Flexible sizing. Orient horizontally or vertically.
- Oval mirrors – elegant and ornate. Softens hard edges on contemporary baths. Scales up or down.
Consider the mirror location and how the shape will complement other features. For example, an oval or round mirror can offset the harsh lines of a boxy vanity. Or a rectangular mirror can align with vertical subway tiles.
When selecting a shape, visualize it in the space above your sink. Pay attention to the mirror’s orientation and size together. This ensures it fits and harmonizes within your bath’s existing structures and shapes.
Style: How to Match Your Bathroom Mirror with Your Bathroom’s Style
Mirror style presents another opportunity to personalize your space. Consider how the frame design fits with your bath’s:
- Modern style – Frameless, beveled mirrors in geometric shapes add sleekness. Illuminated mirrors keep things contemporary.
- Rustic style – Natural wooden frames with visible grain match farmhouse baths. For bold contrast, opt for black metal framing.
- Traditional style – Ornate gold, silver, or white frames complement vintage elements. Carved detailing amps up elegance.
- Eclectic style – Iron, brushed brass or colorful frames provide flair. Unique shapes like arched tops work well.
Your frame finish, material, shape and any embellishments should tie into the overall room scheme. A mirror style that matches your faucets, sconces and other details creates harmony. Don’t be afraid to use the mirror as a decor focal point by choosing an eye-catching frame that plays off other features.
Lighting: How to Ensure Proper Lighting for Your Bathroom Mirror
Properly lighting your bathroom mirror helps create a functional space for grooming. Follow these lighting tips:
- Position wall sconces or pendant lights evenly on both sides of the mirror. Light pointing down from the top can create shadows.
- Choose bulbs that provide bright, white light similar to natural daylight. This allows true color visibility.
- Place lights close to eye level to evenly illuminate faces. Approximately 60 inches from the floor is ideal.
- AddLED lights along the top, sides or all around the mirror frame. This provides uniform lighting.
- Install a backlit mirror if regular lighting is insufficient. These mirrors have lights behind the glass to brightly reflect faces.
- Dimmer switches allow adjusting brightness for tasks vs mood lighting.
With ample lighting surrounding or built into your mirror, you’ll be able to easily apply makeup, shave, or style your hair.
Additional Features: Options to Consider for Your Bathroom Mirror
Beyond the basics, modern bathroom mirrors offer built-in features that provide added convenience and flair:
- Shelves – Great for toiletries, decor or candles. Open, glass or cabinet styles optimize space.
- Defoggers – Heated mirrors prevent fogging up in humid bathrooms via warm wire elements.
- Mirror TVs – Built-in screens behind the glass entertain while primping.
- Smart Features – Adjust lighting, play music or get calendar updates with integrated tech.
- Magnification – One section of the mirror optically zooms for detail work like tweezing or makeup.
- Tiltability – Angle adjustments on the mirror joints allow optimal viewing.
- Medicine cabinets – Combines hidden storage and mirror into one space-saving unit.
- Borders and trim – Frame decorations like crown molding, metallic trim and more provide visual interest.
- Mounting – Choose from wall-mount, pedestal sink top or leaning floor mount installation.
When considering special features, think about which would enhance your mirror’s form and function based on your needs. Measure to ensure adequate room exists for features like shelving. Also account for potential electric, wiring, or reinforcement requirements during hanging.
The right bonus features can take your mirror from basic to beautiful showstopper. However, also stick to necessities to avoid unnecessary expense.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Bathroom Mirror
Now that we’ve covered all the factors in detail, here are 5 tips to select the ideal mirror to complete your dream bathroom:
1. Consider Your Bathroom’s Layout
Assess if you have room for a large statement mirror or if a compact space calls for something smaller. Note plumbing locations that may interfere with mirror positioning.
2. Think About Your Bathroom’s Overall Aesthetic
Choose a mirror that integrates into your existing style and decor elements. Use shape and frame to complement your color scheme.
3. Determine Your Budget
Basic affordable options start around $100. High-end custom mirrors with special features can cost over $1000. Set realistic expectations based on how much you can spend.
4. Prioritize the Features You Really Need
Focus first on the must-have features like size, lighting or anti-fog. Add special features if they fit into your budget and plans.
5. Don’t Forget About Maintenance
Ensure your mirror choice fits into your cleaning routine. Frequent spraying and wiping prevents water spots.
Following these tips when shopping helps you zero in on a mirror that meets all your needs and still fits into your available bathroom space, design theme, and budget.
Examples of Stylish and Functional Bathroom Mirrors
To give you an idea of how to select the perfect mirror for your own bathroom, here are several beautiful and practical bath mirror examples in a variety of shapes, styles and configurations:
Framed Mirrors: Adding a Touch of Elegance and Charm
Framed mirrors provide classic warmth. Consider them for:
- Traditional bathrooms – Antique mirrored glass within distressed wood frames enhanced this historic home’s bath.
- Rustic bathrooms – Rough hewn oak surrounds beveled mirror panes in this cozy cottage.
- Romantic bathrooms – Intricate gold metalwork makes the mirror the jewelry of this ornate space.
Framed mirrors often conjure up an old-world feel. But they can also provide sleek, modern framing as well with the right materials like matte black or silver metal.
Frameless Mirrors: A Sleek and Modern Choice
For contemporary cool, frameless delivers. Ideal for:
- Modern bathrooms – The simple beveled rectangle mirror balances the geometric tiles behind this floating vanity.
- Minimalist bathrooms – Clear glass with polished edges enhances the clean lines and openness of this spa-like retreat.
- Industrial bathrooms – A giant frameless mirror reflects light across the concrete and metal finishes of this urban loft bath.
Frameless mirrors allow the shapes and lines of your mirror to take center stage, unencumbered by ornate borders. Their transparency helps small bathrooms feel more expansive as well.
Round Mirrors: A Versatile Option for Any Bathroom
With unlimited pairing possibilities, round mirrors work with any decor. For example:
- Eclectic bathrooms – A distressed antique gold round mirror mingles with vintage collectibles for free-spirited styling.
- Tropical bathrooms – Woven rattan frame complements bamboo wall finishes in this spa getaway.
- Midcentury modern bathrooms – Perched atop tapered legs, a backlit round mirror illuminates this retro palette.
Circular mirrors loosen up hard lines and angles. Hang one alone or creatively cluster multiples together for an artistic element.
Square Mirrors: A Classic Choice for Traditional Bathrooms
Square and rectangular mirrors align with many bath components for cohesion:
- Transitional bathrooms – A simple thin black frame around this large horizontal mirror balances the tub’s black and white tile.
- Beach bathrooms – Rope framing adds nautical flair to a squared mirror on this breezy seaside retreat.
- Historic home bathrooms – Ornate gold trim borders vintage mirror panes to match period drama.
The symmetry and angles of square mirrors pair naturally with shower tiles, wood floors or perimeter molding details found in many classic bath spaces.
Oval Mirrors: A Timeless Option for a Touch of Sophistication
Oval mirrors lend an elegant ambiance. For instance:
- Glitzy glam bathrooms – A halo of small bulbs surrounds this mirror, creating a vanity perfect for Hollywood styling.
- Refined bathrooms – Carved wood molding frames the oval mirror in this relaxing spa-like space.
- Bold bathrooms – Overlapping ovals cascade down the wall behind the tub of this modern art deco bath.
With softness and curves, oval mirrors provide a graceful touch whether standalone or creatively clustered. They blend in or stand out depending on the frame style.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect bathroom mirror involves assessing your space, style and needs. But with some measuring, planning and shopping around, you’re sure to find a mirror that makes your bathroom complete.
The right mirror pulls together your dream bath by reflecting and enhancing your design aesthetic. It also provides adjustable lighting so you can clearly see while grooming. Don’t settle for a boring basic mirror but instead choose one with inspiring shapes, frames and features.
Follow the tips and ideas in this guide to turn your mirror search into a success story. Then get ready to enjoy your stylish new focal point every time you walk into your upgraded bathroom. With the perfect mirror in place, the rest of your features and finishes will beautifully come into view as your complete bathroom oasis comes together.