Choosing bathroom mirrors: what to do and what not to do

The simple mirror is the one element of bathroom décor that receives far less attention than it deserves. After all, don't you look in the mirror in the bathroom every day? It's an important part of grooming, but it's also one of the simplest ways to add style and personality to your bathroom.

Let's take a look at the costs. Replacing a bathroom mirror is much less expensive than replacing a toilet or sink. The mirror's style and design also contribute to the overall appearance and atmosphere of the bathroom.

There are many options for size, style and shape to choose from, so I’ve put together this guide to help you put things into perspective and get your bathroom mirror just right.

1. Think about the size

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Aside from style and design, consider the size of your mirror in relation to the rest of the room, particularly the vanity unit. Unless there are special circumstances, a large bathroom mirror should not be wider than the vanity.

A mirror only needs to be about 30cm above and below the user's eyeline in terms of height. Of course, the more height you have, the better, as it will give you more viewing angles and make the bathroom feel more open. Attempt to span at least 1.2–2 meters above the ground.

Measure from the base of the vanity all the way up to the lighting to get the perfect mirror height. Determine if you want a gap between the top of the mirror and the lights or if you want them flush. To avoid water spots, consider placing the mirror about 15cm above the vanity.

2. Don’t overlook the importance of function

Gone are the days when a mirror's primary purpose was to reflect light. Bathroom mirrors with great extra features can be found in even the most basic of home décor stores.

• Storage: Both traditional and modern vanity cabinets with mirrored fronts are available. Despite the fact that a mounted box vanity cabinet is typically traditional in style, modern designs frequently feature sunken cabinets that are completely hidden when closed. Both are great options if you need a little more storage space for all of your bathroom essentials.

• Lighting: Mirrors with built-in lighting are ideal for cosmetic purposes, as the lights provide an extra glow that allows you to see how you will appear when out and about. Remember that these must be hardwired into the bathroom, which requires the services of a licensed electrician.

3. Do decide between framed or unframed

Consider framing while you're looking at different round, square, small, and large bathroom mirrors. While framed mirrors add a layer of style to a room, they are also more bulky. They can also take up more floor space, which can be a problem if you're short on space. Also, because of their clean and minimalistic appearance, unframed mirrors are currently in vogue.

Fortunately, should you purchase an unframed piece and change your mind down the road, frames can be bought and added separately to form a custom design for that bathroom style-up project!

4. Do consider your bathroom’s style

Bathroom mirrors come in a wide range of styles, colors, and shapes. If the design complements the rest of the space and there is a link between existing hues and textures, using a different shape for your bathroom mirror can create a stunning focal point.

What's our advice? Keeping things simple is usually the best option. In today's world, subtle finishes like chrome or brushed aluminum are popular choices, and they can be a great compromise between full frames and unframed mirrors.

5. Don’t ignore that round mirror just yet

When it comes to shapes, just because rectangular mirrors are popular doesn't mean you have to utilize them. A circular mirror can add some curves to an otherwise straight-lined room, creating a gentle touch and relaxing atmosphere.

Because the curved lines between the two might create a visual link, a round mirror can be a perfect companion piece for a pedestal basin. Furthermore, if you're trying to prevent a crowded look, circular patterns provide more negative space around the'corners' than rectangular designs.

homify tip: Want to draw attention to your lovely wall (maybe you're displaying magnificent wallpaper or a unique finish)? Go with a round mirror, as it leaves a bit more wall exposed, plus the circular shape automatically draws attention away from the rest of the bathroom’s linear outlines (shower, tub, tiles, etc.).

6. Don’t forget about your windows

Obviously, the bathroom mirror should complement a functional layout, but take into account the location of windows. If the mirror can reflect a window, the bathroom will have more natural light, which will bring out the best in all of the other design elements.

7. Do take your lifestyle into consideration

Aside from being attractive (obviously), your bathroom mirror should also be functional. Do you share your bathroom with a partner and children, necessitating a large number of mirrors? Are you and your spouse constantly in each other's way while getting ready for work in the mornings (one shaving, the other brushing teeth... )? Maybe two separate mirrors will help you with your morning routine?

You may feel constrained by outlets or wall sconces, but a mirror can be custom cut to fit your bathroom space perfectly.

8. Do think about multiple mirrors

Are you fortunate enough to have a large bathroom vanity, especially one with multiple sinks? Then don't overlook the value of having multiple mirrors. Choosing several tall, skinny mirrors can also help to give a bathroom a more vertical appearance, emphasizing the space's height.

Using a single large mirror, on the other hand, opens up the space by reflecting more of the opposing walls.

With only one sink, multiple mirrors are still possible. When compared to just one single mirror, centring a mirror on the sink and then adding a second mirror symmetrical to the first can make the entire composition look more balanced.

With this information in your back pocket, you can go about choosing the perfect bathroom mirror with confidence! Of course, if you need more advice, the team at Ideal Bathroom Centre is happy to help you out! Take a look at our website for a wide selection of high-quality, versatile bathroom mirrors for every type of bathroom space.