How to Choose a Decorative Wall Mirror for Your Bathroom

Bathroom mirrors have the unique ability to completely transform a space. With one piece of décor, you can change your bathroom from a space that's small and outdated to a space that's fresh and unique. Choose a wall mirror that best complement your bathroom.  

Mirrors are also the centrepiece of elegance in any home and have played both a decorative and functional role since the turn of the 19th century. 

That said, the bathroom mirror is a design element that's often overlooked. Don't make the same mistake. Read on to learn how to choose a wall mirror to beautifully complement your bathroom. 

6 Handy Tips on How to Choose a Wall Mirror for the Bathroom

The size and proportion of your mirror choice are so important. Ideally, you don't want to distract from the functional or decorative point of the mirror. 

But when it comes to choosing a mirror, remember to keep your aesthetic preferences and budget in mind in equal measure. Here are a few more pointers that could help: 

1. Should You Hang One or Two Bathroom Mirrors?

This is the age-old bathroom mirror debate. But when it comes down to it, the size of your bathroom will determine your answer. The size of your bathroom vanity can also provide different answers to this question.

If your vanity takes up most of the wall in your bathroom, then it could support the look and feel of two bathroom mirrors. But here's what to consider, first: 

In order to create a taller, more vertically-inclined space, opt for two vertically long mirrors. If your bathroom has a tall ceiling, this is your best choice 

If your bathroom is a little dark or has a low ceiling, then a wide, single mirror above your vanity is a better choice. 

2. Should You Size up or Size Down? 

Building on from the above point, the size of your bathroom mirror(s) is absolutely crucial. Sizing has a way of completely throwing off the entire proportion of your bathroom.

Remember that if your mirror is too big, it will overwhelm the space and detract from being decorative. If it's too small, the function of the mirror is completely lost. It's important to strike the right balance. 

Ideally, your bathroom vanity mirror should be the same width as the vanity. This creates a perfect sense of symmetry in the bathroom. This is also a more modern approach, versus the two-mirror style. 

Otherwise, a mirror that's slightly shorter than the vanity will still work, as it's not always easy or cost-effective to opt for an exact, custom-made size.

Here you can get a little creative with the extra space by adding light fixtures, or sconces, on either side of the mirror. 

3. Don't Rule out the Full-Length Mirror  

If the size of your bathroom can take it, a full-length mirror is a great way to add a grand and elegant feel to the space.

Also known as wall-to-wall mirrors, they add a beautiful touch above your bathroom vanity as well. This is a good way to make a large bathroom appear even larger, without overwhelming the room.

But if you're going for a full-length mirror, it may be best to opt for a frameless version. A large, bulky frame may overcrowd the space and take away from the point of the mirror itself. If you're looking to create a more modern, contemporary bathroom, frameless mirrors are good for this. 

4. Choosing the Ideal Mirror Frame

If you choose to go with a mirror the width of your vanity, it is best to opt for a frameless mirror, or something that's very simple. However, if the mirror is a little shorter than the vanity, then a frame is a great way to fill up this negative space. 

Try to match your mirror frame to the existing cabinetry or décor in the bathroom for a cohesive look. Remember that mirrors with ornate frames tend to suit more traditional-style bathrooms.

If you're going for a more modern touch, stick to frameless or simplicity. Textured mirror frames that are roughly 10-15 centimetres wide are ideal. 

5. Mirror Lighting/Sconces

While a mirror can reflect light and make a bathroom look taller or wider, mirror lights/scones can make a real impact.

Today you can find modern, frameless mirrors that are back-lit with LED lighting for a sleek bathroom touch. If you want to go the more traditional route, mounted wall lights or scones on either side of the mirror make for a warm, inviting bathroom.

Choose a mirror that's 60-70% the width of your vanity if you intend to hang wall-mounted lights on either side of it. This way, your bathroom will look perfectly balanced. 

6. When in Doubt, Go Round 

Most people tend to default to the standard rectangular mirror shape. But the round mirror is probably your best choice if you just can't decide. 

Rounded mirrors bring an element of softness to a room, and help to create a more relaxed atmosphere due to their organic shape. If you want to create a bathroom sanctuary, a large round mirror would be a smart choice.

Opt for a round mirror that hangs from a strap or chain so that it's easier to mount. Round mirrors are also a brilliant choice for smaller bathrooms with pedestal sinks.  

Find Your Perfect Bathroom Mirror With Mirror City 

Now that you know a little more about how to choose a wall mirror for your bathroom, be sure to check out our range of beautiful, premium quality mirrors. 

Whether you're looking for simple, chic, ornate, super modern, or custom-made, Mirror City offers a huge range of choice to suit any style of bathroom. View our collection for more!