How to Choose the Perfect Bathroom Mirror Size

If you’ve ever built your own home or remodeled an existing one, you understand the need for an experienced contractor to conduct the bulk of the work. You also know how fulfilling it can be to participate in the design process to assure the finished project is customized to suit your needs. Nowhere is this more applicable than with a bathroom.

Although a full bathroom remodel needs the experience of a contractor, a bathroom facelift is something you can do yourself. Fresh paint and new bathroom mirrors can give your bathroom a brand new look. Mirrors are not as difficult as you may think; simply follow a few steps toward incorporating a design and you can have them done in a jiffy.

Match the Vanity for Length

The first step toward determining your new mirror design is to measure the length of the vanity. Typically, the length of the mirror matches the length of the vanity. Occasionally, you may decide to use a mirror that is shorter and centered on the sink. Seldom would you want to have the mirror be longer than the vanity as in most applications it will give a bulky and uncomfortable appearance to the room.

Determine the Height

A standard for mirror height is based on the style of lighting above the vanity and whether or not you want the mirror to reach all the way to the fixture or fall a bit short to leave wall space visible between the mirror and light. If you can, look at the bathrooms your friends have to get an idea of what styles impress you that you would like to incorporate into your own home before making a final decision.

Adjust for Window Light

Once you’ve determined the basic dimensions of your new mirror, it’s time to consider how it works in the room. You may not consider it as such, but it can potentially be an indirect light source as it reflects natural outdoor light coming in through a window. If you have a north facing window, you may want as large a window as suitable for the room to catch and reflect as much light as possible. It should certainly be considered how the glare of a west facing is going to strike the mirror. It only makes sense to consider how light enters the room through a window and how it going to be affected by the mirror.

Envision the Frame

A final step toward deciding on the mirror is to mimic its size and shape on the wall. Painter’s tape, cardboard, poster board, or even newspaper can give you an idea as to how the final product is going to look. Experiment with different sizes, and remember different shapes are available as well. Round, horizontally oval or vertically egg shaped designs can add a customization to your bathroom not provided by traditional rectangular mirrors. Arched tops are a perennial favorite, as are dual smaller mirrors instead of a single large one. Other options include mirrors recessed inside the wall or hinged outside of a medicine cabinet for storage. Wood, stone or tile can be used to frame the mirror according to the design style you’re trying to achieve.

Consider Additional Mirrors

No law says the mirror over your vanity has to be the only mirror in your bathroom. Inside the door is always a good place for another mirror and most bathrooms have wall space where additional mirrors can be placed. Mirrors always reflect light and brighten the room as well as adding the illusion of more space in a small area. Whether perpendicular to each other or parallel on opposite walls, additional mirrors can complement the main one placed over the vanity stylistically and aesthetically. Remain open minded to the possibility of where other mirrors might be both useful and beautiful in your bath.

Ultimately, you are the person who knows best what you need and what you like in your bathroom. Designers and contractors can pass along their helpful experience as to what they know to generally work for most people. If you know exactly what you want, go with it. At the same time, don’t be afraid to ask for advice from an expert professional in the field.

Read more about how to choose the right bathroom mirror for your bathroom!