Bathroom Mirrors

These common questions will help you compare mirror types, sizes, shapes and features before choosing.

 

What types of bathroom mirror can I choose from?

Standard bathroom mirrors provide a clear reflection without built-in electrical features. Choose from framed, frameless and wall mounted designs, with selected freestanding mirrors also available.

Illuminated mirrors feature built-in LED lighting, while mirrored cabinets add useful storage behind the doors. You'll also find cosmetic and shaving mirrors, mirrors with shelves and smart mirrors with features such as clocks, sensors and Bluetooth speakers.

 

What size and orientation bathroom mirror do I need?

Measure the width of your basin or vanity unit, the available wall height and the space around any lights, shelves or cabinets. A mirror will usually look best when it's around the same width as the vanity unit or slightly narrower.

In terms of orientation, portrait mirrors work well on narrow walls and draw the eye upwards. Landscape mirrors give you a wider reflection and suit broader vanity units. For a double basin, choose one wide mirror or place two matching mirrors side by side.

 

What shape mirror should I choose?

Curved and round mirrors soften straight-edged tiles, furniture and fittings. Arched, oval, pill-shaped and organic designs add more shape without needing a heavy or decorative frame. Rectangular and square mirrors create a more structured look and work particularly well above wider basins. Choose a shape that works with the furniture, tiles and fittings already in the room.

 

Which bathroom mirror features are useful?

Demister pads warm part of the glass to help reduce condensation after a bath or shower. Dimmers and adjustable-colour LEDs let you change the brightness and tone of the light to suit different times of day. Front-lit mirrors provide direct light for shaving, skincare and applying makeup, while backlit designs cast a softer glow around the mirror. Other useful features include touch or motion sensors, shaver sockets, charging shelves, magnifying sections, clocks and Bluetooth speakers.

 

How high should I hang a bathroom mirror?

Position the mirror so the centre is around eye level for the people who'll use it most. The exact height will depend on the mirror, basin, vanity unit and any furniture or lighting nearby.

Centre the mirror above the basin and leave enough room between it and the taps, lights, shelves or cabinets. Check that everyone can see comfortably before fixing it to the wall.

 

Can I install a bathroom mirror myself?

Many standard wall mounted mirrors can be fitted using suitable fixings, provided the wall can safely support the mirror's size and weight. The right fixing method will depend on whether the wall is tiled, panelled, plasterboard or masonry. Large or heavy mirrors may need two people to lift and position them safely. Mains-powered illuminated mirrors should be installed by a suitably qualified electrician.