How to Pick the Right Bathroom Mirror

Most people don’t spend much time thinking about their bathroom mirrors. They act as a decorating detail that isn’t usually paid much attention. However, more people should look deeper into their bathroom mirrors since they are used daily. A mirror makes it easier to handle daily grooming, and the right mirror can add style and personality to a bathroom.

Installing a new mirror is much less challenging than switching out a vanity, toilet, or shower. A bathroom mirror can complement other decor to offer more of your preferred style. It can also be more understated and let a feature like the wallpaper or a sink shine. Regardless of your destination, this article will help you choose the perfect bathroom mirror.

72 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity with Choice of Top

72 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity with Choice of Top

Tips For Choosing the Right Bathroom Mirror

Before we delve into details about mirror features, we want to share a few tips on choosing the right bathroom mirror. These tips will help you get the look you want in your bathroom. However, remember above all that it’s essential that the mirror looks good to you since you’ll be the person using it every day.

  • Consider the sink size, your height, and wall space – When choosing a bathroom mirror, you want the glass to be a few inches above eye level for the tallest person who will be using the bathroom. It should also hang low enough that shorter individuals can easily see in the mirror.
  • Small mirrors, large mirrors, and mirrors in between all offer something different – Many people prefer small and large mirrors, but either can do the job. A large mirror gives you additional reflection space and can make a bathroom seem larger. A smaller mirror leaves room for other décor items like lamps and sconces.
  • Remember to decide between framed and frameless mirrors – Another choice you must make is whether you use a framed or frameless mirror. Frameless mirrors have a clean, stylish look that is more modern if you prefer a spa-like atmosphere. Mirrors with frames add extra details and can fill up a space.

Remember these things as you read on and learn more about different mirror factors to determine which product is right for you.

Related: Medicine Cabinet Buying Guide

Balkan Modern Gold Wall Rectangular Mirror

Balkan Modern Gold Wall Rectangular Mirror

Selecting the Ideal Size for a Bathroom Mirror

A bathroom mirror size is usually determined based on the vanity size. Mirrors are typically two to four inches narrower than the vanity, but this can vary depending on your space’s style and configuration. You can hang a mirror along a lengthy, narrow vanity or choose something smaller that is only found over the sink.

To ensure the bathroom mirror you purchase meets your needs, measure the sink or vanity, and use those measurements to narrow down your options. While most people choose a mirror smaller than a vanity, that isn’t a requirement. Some people choose mirrors as large as the vanity, but it’s best not to go beyond that size.

Another thing to consider is whether your mirror will house a medicine cabinet. If so, you’ll have a smaller selection and need to consider how much space your bandages, medications, and other items will take up. The mirror should be large enough to hold everything you need it to.

Related: Bathroom Design Tips: Upgrade Your Bathroom Mirror


What are the Shape Options for Bathroom Mirrors?

Mirrors come in various sizes, shapes, and finishes so you can get creative with your chosen ones. The most traditional option will be oval or rectangular, similar to other décor styles. However, mirrors can also be custom-made to fit perfectly into a space.

Are you a fan of modern homes? A minimal, sleek mirror could be the right choice for your needs. Many of these mirrors come with extras like screens that display the time and temperature or built-in light. You’ll also want to decide whether you prefer the look of a framed or frameless mirror when choosing the shape of the mirror that looks best in your bathroom.

60 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity with Soft Closing Drawers

60 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity with Soft Closing Drawers

Where to Hang the Bathroom Mirror?

Wondering where to hang the perfect mirror once you’ve purchased it? Some people think a bathroom mirror has to be centered over the sink, but this isn’t always possible. That doesn’t mean you should go without a mirror or lament having to do something more unique. It might take time to get used to a mirror that isn’t over the sink, but it’s something you will become accustomed to.

Another consideration is how far above the backsplash a mirror should be hung. The reality is that this depends on the actual space. Everything from the mirror’s dimensions to the ceiling height and location of other items will impact your final choice. Test different options by making light marks on the wall and seeing if any area looks crowded. If it does, you may need to make a few changes.

The most important thing is that the mirror is at eye level for anyone who uses it. Experts recommend placing the mirror at least five inches from the sink, a few inches over the faucet, and four feet above the floor. The best option is to center the bathroom mirror between the sink and the vanity lighting.

Related: Bathroom Design and Inspiration

Agustin Unique Light Walnut with Burnished Details Mirror

Agustin Unique Light Walnut with Burnished Details Mirror

Do You Hang One or Two Mirrors Over a Double Vanity?

If you have a bathroom with a wide vanity, especially one with two or more sinks, you might wonder whether you should hang a single large mirror or two smaller mirrors for each sink. There is no hard and fast rule one way or the other. It primarily comes down to preference and how your bathroom is laid out.

Using two smaller, perhaps taller mirrors can make the room feel like it has more vertical space, while a single large mirror makes the entire room seem larger since it reflects more of the bathroom. Remember that even if you have a single sink, you can still use multiple mirrors throughout the bathroom if you prefer the look of it.

84 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in White with Barn Door Style Doors

84 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in White with Barn Door Style Doors


My name is Julia Ritzenthaler, Founder and President of Unique Vanities, started in 2005. I started this business as an extension of our residential remodeling business, which focused on the design and build of custom cabinetry and architectural trim. I also worked as a financial advisor for 10 years at Ameriprise Financial, helping clients make sound money decisions, including budgeting for home improvement expenses. This expertise led me to start Unique Vanities, which offers a handpicked selection of high quality bathroom vanities, sinks, mirrors and more. You can find me most days sitting in Starbucks, my second office, or in my car driving my daughter across Dallas to gymnastics training.

Resources

https://www.houzz.com/magazine/how-to-choose-a-bathroom-mirror-stsetivw-vs~93189120

https://dengarden.com/remodeling/Sizing-the-Mirror-Above-Your-Bathroom-Vanity

https://www.hunker.com/13411058/how-far-above-a-backsplash-should-a-mirror-hang

https://www.roomhints.com/bathroom-mirror/