6 Questions About Bathroom Mirrors

Bathroom mirrors are a lot trickier than some people realize. Although they might seem like a small accent, they’re a focal point and functional tool, and they need to measure up (in more ways than one). Fortunately, there are many options out there today that can fit almost any style. Of course, there’s still the question of determining which mirror will be the best for your space.

To that end, we’ve collected six of the most popular questions about bathroom mirrors, along with the answers you need to know. That way, you’ll be confident that you are choosing the best mirror for your bathroom, no matter what you have in mind.

Lightly Antiqued Gold Leaf Arched Mirror

Lightly Antiqued Gold Leaf Arched Mirror

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What should I look for when buying a bathroom mirror?

There are several considerations involved in choosing the right bathroom mirror. You must know your budget to rule out anything out of your price range immediately. Then, you’ll want to figure out where the mirror is going so that you can determine the right size and shape.

For example, if you’re choosing dual mirrors over a double-sink vanity, you’ll want to make sure they make a statement but don’t crowd each other when centered over each sink. Consider the color(s) of the frame (if any) and how those will also fit into your bathroom design. You can choose wood tones, painted frames, or stick with frameless mirrors for a sleek look.

You’ll also have to choose between standard mirrors or medicine cabinet-style fixtures, depending on whether you want (or need) the storage. And don’t forget to check the installation method or hanging style used so that you A) know what to expect and B) make sure that it fits your needs. Each mirror will have its installation method and hardware to consider.

Related: Should You Choose A Medicine Cabinet Or A Vanity With Lots Of Storage?

Nadia Bright Silver Leaf Mirror

Nadia Bright Silver Leaf Mirror

What kind of mirrors are best for bathrooms?

There is no best mirror for a bathroom. Because of the design options available today, anything that fits your space can be considered the best. You can look up trending designs like round mirrors, dual mirrors over dual sinks, backlit mirrors, statement mirrors, and even smart mirrors that can do more than you ever imagined.

Choose materials that will stand up well to moisture and humidity because that’s the biggest concern with quality when choosing bathroom mirrors. Some people choose simple round or rectangular mirrors, while others simultaneously turn the function into form by choosing a uniquely styled mirror.

If you can afford them, lighted mirrors and smart mirrors are the best options for a bathroom when you need good task lighting and you want to enjoy features like anti-fog and even Bluetooth speakers so you can play your favorite tunes at optimal shower volume!

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Barcelona Mirror with Antique Gold Leaf Finish

Barcelona Mirror with Antique Gold Leaf Finish

Should mirrors be centered over bathroom sinks?

Typically, it is best if the mirror is centered over the sink. If you have two sinks and are putting up two mirrors, they should each be centered over their respective sink. You’ll also want to make sure that you leave enough room on either side of the mirror so it’s hanging evenly.

This may only change if you choose a modern offset design and have a sink to the left or right of the vanity cabinet. Then, you might want to center the mirror mostly on the cabinet but ensure the sink has visibility. Many factors go into the proper placement of a bathroom mirror, but honestly, a lot of these are preferences that you’ll have to decide.

Related: 8 Trending Round Bathroom Mirrors

Antiqued Silver Champagne with a Dark Bronze Outer Edge Oval Mirror

Antiqued Silver Champagne with a Dark Bronze Outer Edge Oval Mirror

How high should a mirror be above a vanity backsplash?

This is another big question that people have about bathroom mirrors. Placement is about function and style, so it’s important to balance both. For the sake of function, you should consider your height when hanging the mirror. The first thing that you’ll want to do is measure the height of the counter, including the backsplash.

Interior designers suggest that mirrors be 57 inches at the center, as with most wall art. So, if you have a 2 foot high mirror, the top should measure 69 inches from the floor. Then, subtract the counter height and backsplash measurement that you took earlier, and that will tell you where your mirror’s center should be. Mark the wall accordingly and make sure that the mirror looks right in this position before hanging it.

If you’re shorter, you may want to hang a mirror lower for ease of use, and the same if you’re taller. Feel free to adjust as necessary.

Serenity Round Mirror - Custom Painted Glossy Red

Serenity Round Mirror – Custom Painted Glossy Red

Should a bathroom mirror be the same width as the vanity?

A bathroom mirror doesn’t necessarily need to match the vanity width. It can if you’re going for symmetry in your fixtures, but mirrors can also be smaller or wider than the vanity cabinet, depending on the design and statement you’re trying to make. As long as the mirror is centered on the vanity or the sink, its exact size doesn’t matter as much as the placement.

Related: Mirrors And Positive Self-Image

alexandria-residence-lori-shaffer

Photo by Lori Shaffer

If you choose a mirror with a frame of any kind, you’ll have a selection of materials and colors. Most popular are wood tones, whites, browns, and blacks, and the growing trend of modern vanity mirrors with blue or gray finishes. You will also find metal-framed silver or gold mirrors if they fit with your bathroom space. And, of course, some people choose frameless mirrors, so this isn’t even a concern.

If you choose a color, consider one that complements the rest of the space. It might match the vanity cabinet, or it could be an accent color that matches the new towels. Perhaps you’ll pick a wood tone that matches the natural woodwork in the room. Whatever you choose, you’ll find plenty of choices.

And, of course, if you need any assistance with bathroom mirrors and other fixtures, find a team of experts who can help you get the best for your upgrade.

Related: 8 Trending Oval Bathroom Mirrors

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Zenith Rectangular Mirror - Custom Painted Glossy Royal Blue

Zenith Rectangular Mirror – Custom Painted Glossy Royal Blue


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://www.lowes.com/n/buying-guide/mirror-buying-guide

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-bathroom-mirror/

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

https://www.modernbathroom.com/blog/post/2022/05/16/bathroom-mirror-height

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

https://housegrail.com/bathroom-mirror-trends-modern-design-ideas/

https://www.theglassguru.com/blog/trending-vanity-mirrors-for-2022/