Which bathroom mirror should you choose and at what height should it be installed?

There are a few basic factors that should be kept in mind. They determine not only how the mirror looks, but also the functionality and overall aesthetic of the bathroom. Shape, thickness, and dimensions of the mirror, are among the most important factors.

Mirror Types and Shapes

There are several types of bathroom mirrors. Depending on the size of your bathroom, its design, and your needs, you should focus on different solutions. A classic and common choice is rectangular bathroom mirrors. They suit most bathrooms – both those decorated in a traditional style and modern ones. Some models include built-in lighting, which adds functionality.

An interesting option is a round mirror above the sink. This is a perfect complement to modern interiors. In Scandinavian and modern styles, minimalism and the use of flowing shapes are important. Round mirrors look delicate and take up less space, which is why they are commonly installed in small bathrooms.

Additionally, there also are available mirrored cabinets. They are not as popular as the previous solutions, but they are used in exceptionally small bathrooms where there is a lack of storage space. There are also small cosmetic bathroom mirrors, which are most often mounted on the wall or placed on the countertop.

Mirror dimensions

Those renovating a bathroom often ask themselves what size bathroom mirror will be appropriate. The optimal dimensions of bathroom mirrors depend on the size of the bathroom and the width of the sink. In smaller spaces, smaller mirrors are better so that they do not overwhelm the interior or disrupt proportions. Large mirrors look a lot better in spacious bathrooms.

Mirror thickness

It is important not only which size and type of bathroom mirror to choose, but also its thickness. The standard thickness ranges from 4 to 6 mm, although mirrors with thinner glass can also be found. The thickness of the mirror affects its durability, which is why thicker models are a better choice. At the same time, you should have in mind that thick mirrors are heavier and sometimes more difficult to install. It is therefore time to answer another question – what height should a mirror above the sink be?

There are several universal rules regarding mirror height. Regardless of whether the mirror is glued into tiles or hung on the wall, it is typically installed so that its lower edge is at a height of 100–120 cm from the floor, and the center of the mirror is at the users’ eye level. The key factor in determining the best height is the height of the household members. Most often, the mirror is positioned 25–50 cm above the sink, and if it has an irregular shape and different heights at several points, the height is determined at a level 10 cm above the highest of these points. But can a mirror be wider than the sink?

A bathroom mirror should not be purchased without first determining the size of the sink. This is important because in some cases a mirror wider than the sink may disrupt the effect and balance of the bathroom. Until recently, the prevailing view was that a mirror must always be narrower than the sink. Now the approach has changed, as models with the same width as the sink or even wider are also used. Achieving a good result requires a sense of proportion, but it is worth considering, especially when there is a large wall to work with. Many architects use mirrors wider than sinks in their designs. A bathroom makeover using this technique can make a real impact. So which bathroom mirror is better - glued or hung?

Bathroom mirrors are installed in two ways. You can choose a mirror glued into the wall or one hung on special brackets. Each of these options has its advantages. A mirror recessed into tiles allows for a minimalist look and blends well with modern interiors. Its downside is that it is more difficult to replace than a hung mirror, and the installation itself can be troublesome. What should you use to glue a mirror to the wall? Gluing the mirror to the wall using a specialist mirror adhesive or a strong mounting adhesive is recommended. A unique character can be achieved by opting for a decorative frame for a recessed mirror.

The advantages of hung mirrors certainly include a wide selection of shapes, sizes, and frames that can easily be matched to the interior design style. They are easier to install, although caution is required with heavier models. In addition, regardless of whether the mirror is hung or glued, lighting should be taken into account. Bathroom mirror lighting increases its functionality and user comfort.