Mirrors have been staple fixtures in a bathroom for years and years due to how valuable and useful they are for so many areas of your area. Bathroom mirrors give you increased visibility, a necessary reflection and many other aspects to make your routine easier. These are some of the most important aspects of a bathroom mirror design because of this. This guide will highlight the main uses for bathroom mirrors, the different types, importance of high quality and how you can incorporate them.
Things to Know About Bathroom Mirrors
- They are Necessary - No matter what the design, a bathroom mirror design is essential. The lack of a bathroom mirror makes for an incomplete design, increased discomfort and poor functionality. A bathroom mirror is essential for any vanity area in a bathroom.
- They Add Style - Bathroom mirrors can be beautiful in and of themselves. With a multitude of shapes, frames and designs, there are many to choose from to fit a variety of different bathroom designs.
- They Need to be Placed Correctly - There are specific locations in which bathroom mirrors will and will not work. This guide will highlight the best places for bathroom mirrors to create a comfortable environment.
- Mirrors Vary in Price - Depending on the material, size, frame and other elements, bathroom mirrors will vary in price. It is important to choose a mirror that fits both your bathroom design as well as your budget.
- Multiple Mirrors Can Help - By incorporating multiple bathroom mirrors, you will experience multiple benefits. Space creation, visibility and several other factors will increase the comfort and accessibility of your bathroom design.
Matching Vanities and Mirrors
When pairing a mirror with a bathroom vanity, it is very important to make sure that the measurements of both fixtures are equal. When the vanity and the mirror are both the same length, it creates a neat and organized atmosphere around the area. Typically when you have a rectangular vanity, a rectangular mirror will be the best fit. On the same note, if you have a rounded vanity, you can use a rounded mirror in order to make the combination look more cohesive. In some cases, you can mix and match these shapes if they look good together.
Versatility
The two main shapes of bathroom mirrors are rectangular and circular. Rectangular mirrors are some of the most used in many bathroom designs. The shape itself is very versatile and can be used in a variety of different ways. Rectangular mirrors are what you should consider if you are unsure what you want. They go with every vanity type and will give you the highest level of visibility and the biggest reflection. These will typically be some of the biggest mirrors on the market as well, so that is definitely something to consider. Circular mirrors are also quite effective. They will generally have less surface area, but they are still beautiful options. The only main difference between the two is the shape. You will be able to find all of the same functions in both shapes. If you want a softer design, consider a circular mirror.
If you want a more abstract looking mirror, you might want to think outside the box. For example, try an asymmetrical mirror with a unique shape. This will give your bathroom an interesting focal point. In addition, it will give your bathroom a unique design element that only your bathroom can showcase. This is something to consider for a fresh bathroom remodel or a vanity area change up.
Importance of High Quality Wall Mirrors
One of the most common mirrors for you to incorporate in your bathroom is a high quality wall mirror. Wall mirrors are incredibly important pieces in your bathroom because of how useful they are. They also make your design more comfortable and convenient. For example, one of the most important things about a wall mirror is that it is absolutely necessary for your vanity area. A vanity area needs a bare minimum of three things. It needs a vanity, a sink and a mirror. Being one of these three key components, you want to make sure that you are getting the highest quality. You need a design that both matches your vanity area and is comfortable for you.
LED Lighting in a Bathroom Mirror
LED lighting comes with a number of benefits that other types of lighting do not offer. First, LED lights do not heat up as much as incandescent lighting, making them safer to the touch. Along with safety, LED lights are often brighter and directional. This means that they can accentuate parts of your bathroom effectively and efficiently. This is a great benefit in addition to other bathroom lighting. One of the best benefits of LED lighting is how it is being increasingly incorporated with other fixtures such as mirrors and medicine cabinets, giving you a few more options as to how to light your bathroom without using only ceiling lights.
LED lighting is becoming more and more common in many bathrooms. It has proven to be both cheaper, longer lasting and more effective than traditional lighting. LED lights are extremely efficient as far as energy usage goes, consuming up to 90% less power than traditional lighting. Since the electricity usage is dramatically lower than traditional lighting, the power cost is lower. In addition, you generally will never have to replace LED lights as they last up to 50,000 hours. Another beneficial addition is that the mirrors themselves can range anywhere on the cost spectrum. Of course, the higher end mirrors will be a little more expensive, but definitely worth the price. In general, you will most likely pay more up front, but you will definitely experience the benefits for years to come.
Versatility
Not only can LED lights be used in your bathroom effectively, but they can be used in many other ways in your house. Lighted wall mirrors or lighted magnifying mirrors can be used in the bedroom as well as the bathroom. In general LED lighting can be used in any room, the popular choices being the kitchen, bathroom and living room, due to the directional aspect of LEDs.
Hardwired Bathroom Mirror Design
As far as visibility is concerned, LED lighting will help you with your daily routine, including makeup, shaving and essentially any other task you need to perform in your vanity area. There are two main ways to power the LED lighting. The first, and the most common for a wall mirror, is through hardwiring. This will be the best solution for the long run because you only need one continuous power source. In addition, hardwiring, along with battery powered, can incorporate dimmable lights.
Battery Powered Bathroom Mirror Design
Mirror frames are versatile and numerous in terms of design. There are two main materials used in mirror frames, being wood and metal. wood is one of the most beautiful materials that can be used in mirror frames. There are several different options for you to consider if you go this route. Oak, ash and maples are popular types of wood, with many other types available. There are also several different stains and finishes to consider as well. Wooden frames are perfect for any bathroom that focuses on natural elements. A wood frame with a wood vanity will be a great focal point for any bathroom of this type.
If you want a more modern or sleek feel, you might want to consider a metal frame. Metal frames are just as versatile as wooden frames, with multiple finishes to work with. Chrome, brushed nickel gold and matter finishes are some of the most popular finishes available at the moment. Other finishes are available as well, so explore some of your options. A metal frame can work great with any vanity, so just pick a pair that you like. Popular colors are chrome, black, brushed nickel and several other similar tones.
Frameless Bathroom Mirror Design
If you are trying for more of a minimalist design, consider frameless mirrors. With no frame, your mirror will utilize the bare minimum to match with any bathroom vanity. This is a great option if you want to focus on a vanity design more or if you want a simpler design. Don't get hung up on all of the bells and whistles of the more advanced technology mirrors if you don't necessarily want one. A frameless mirror can absolutely be one of the most beautiful features of a bathroom design. This is especially true in a minimalist or modern bathroom design. Keep this in mind if you want to focus on the simpler side of things.
Create Space With Wall Mirrors
One of the most rewarding effects of mirrors in your bathroom is the illusion of space creation. Of course, mirrors do not literally create space. However, if they are placed correctly, they will be able to make it seem like your bathroom has more space than it does. With that said, you can't just place mirrors wherever you want and expect this to work no matter what.
If you want to make your bathroom look bigger, try using a larger horizontal bathroom mirror design that you can place at about eye level. This will give you the illusion of a bigger bathroom and most likely make you more comfortable. Another great aspect about mirrors is that they are also beautiful pieces of decor. With all of the beautiful frames and shapes that you can find on the market today, you will not have any trouble finding a mirror that will work for your specific bathroom design. If you are struggling to fill a blank wall, this is definitely something to consider.
High Quality Magnifying Mirrors
One of the other very popular mirror types to include in your bathroom will be a magnifying mirror. Magnifying mirrors are incredibly versatile. Various features can be utilized along with the many finishes and materials that you can find them in. Like wall mirrors, magnifying mirrors are capable of incorporating LED lighting. LED lighting is a little more useful in magnifying mirrors because of the close up look.
These mirrors are perfect for any kind of cosmetic or close up task, so the LED lighting will help greatly with visibility and convenience. Along with the LED lighting, some magnifying mirrors will have sensor technology. This is one of the best features of an LED lighted magnifying mirror because it is so convenient and effective. All you need to do is get in front of the mirror and the mirror's lighting will turn on.
Powering Magnifying Mirrors
Just like wall mirrors, the main two ways to power magnifying mirrors is through either hardwiring or batteries. Hardwiring will require one time installation while you will have to replace batteries every one in a while. Magnifying mirrors will also have the option of wall mounted and deck mounted, as well as a choice of number of arms. Deck mounted mirrors will generally have one arm with a face that can be pivoted. You can find a fixed arm or a bendable arm that will allow you to adjust the mirror to your liking.
Magnifying Mirror Styles
Most models of magnifying mirrors come in circular, oval or rectangular shapes. All of these styles come with their own aesthetic features that can be incorporated in any bathroom. Square or rectangular mirrors often fit into modern style bathrooms, while circular and oval shaped mirrors work in simple or classic style bathrooms. Magnifying mirrors also come in a number of different finishes and materials, all of which come with their own stylistic features. Chrome is one of the most popular finishes, along with finishes such as gold or matte finishes. Chrome is one of the finishes that will typically mesh well with just about any bathroom design, so it is definitely one worth considering.
Arms on a Magnifying Mirror
Magnifying mirrors are available with one, two or three arms, giving you the freedom to choose how maneuverable you want your mirror to be. The more arms your mirror has, the more maneuverable it will be. Depending on your situation, you may want to choose more or less arms. If you want to be able to move your mirror freely without many restrictions consider two or three arms.
The more arms you have on a mirror, the more you will be able to maneuver it and the longer it will be able to reach. This is great if you need to mount the mirror in a difficult position or if you are constantly moving your mirror around in order to see many different angles. If you don't need to move your mirror much, one arm should suffice just fine. A one-armed mirror can come in the form of a wall mounted or a free standing/fixed mirror. Both of these options have their own set of unique benefits that can work well in your bathroom design.
Placement of a Magnifying Mirror
Before you buy a magnifying mirror, it is important to consider where you want it to be and how you want it to be mounted. Magnifying mirrors can be freestanding or mounted on a countertop or wall. If your mirror is hardwired, it will need to be wired into the wall, so make sure you know where you want it to be. It is basically up to you to decide what kind of mirror will work best for you, so decide on whether you need a wall mounted or countertop mirror in order to get the most out of your magnifying mirror.
Purchasing a New Bathroom Mirror
If you do realize that you need a new bathroom mirror design, there are a few things that you need to take into consideration before you actually buy it. The first thing you should know is the measurements of the space that you will mount your mirror. This is the most important aspect of the buying process because it could absolutely set you back and make you start from square one. The last thing you want is a mirror that is too big or two small for the area you want it installed.
Next, decide the features that you want your mirror to have. For example, LED lighting, frames or other features can prove to be massive improvements to your vanity area and your bathroom design as a whole. Next, decide what other design elements you would like to see in your mirror, such as shape, color or anything else. If you want a nice smooth buying process, take your time, do your research and buy from a reliable seller. When all is said and done, you will have a brand new bathroom mirror design that will fit perfectly in your bathroom design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are bathroom mirrors expensive? - A: Depending on the materials, size and quality of the mirror, the bathroom mirror price could vary. The average bathroom mirror price is typically around $100 for decent quality. High quality bathroom mirrors will be more expensive.
Q: Do I need more than one bathroom mirror? - A: You don’t need more than one bathroom mirror. However, if you have a larger bathroom, or even a medium sized bathroom, multiple mirrors can definitely make your bathroom much more comfortable.
Q: Does the size of the mirror matter? - A: The width of the mirror should be the same width as the vanity it is being paired with. This creates a clean design with a clear sense of uniformity. The height of the mirror can be a bit more flexible.
Q: Can I use a round mirror with a rectangular vanity? - A: Yes, you can. However, it is best to match shapes where you can to create a cohesive bathroom design. Style is up to you, but keep this practice in mind where you can.
Q: What kind of frame should my mirror have? A: Your mirror frame should match the overall theme and materials of your bathroom design. For example, a wooden mirror frame will work beautifully in a rustic bathroom design.
Q: Is a lighted mirror worth it? - A: Lighted bathroom mirrors are some of the best bathroom fixtures out there due to their efficiency and usefulness in essentially any bathroom design.