Hate to say it, but your bathroom mirror might not be doing your space any favors. 

As a renovator, I see people spending big on tiles, fancy taps, even heated floors, only to choose a random mirror like it’s an afterthought. And trust me, it shouldn’t be. Your mirror is one of the first things you and others will notice in a bathroom. It controls how light bounces around, how big (or cramped) the room feels, and the overall aesthetic of the space.

And here’s the thing: most people don’t even realize they’ve chosen the wrong one. They just assume their bathroom feels a bit off, without knowing why. So before you go shopping for another basic rectangular mirror (or worse, a large wall mirror that looks like it belongs in a gym locker room), read this first. 

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what kind of mirror your bathroom actually needs. And I know what you’re wondering: with so many options, how can you make the right choice? Well, keep reading!

Bathroom Mirror Shapes and Their Impact on Style

Rectangular Mirrors (The “Safe Bet”)

• Best for: Ah yes, the glorious and timeless choice that suits most bathroom designs (modern, classic, minimalistic, you name it) because, well… they’re the default option.
• Why: A rectangular bathroom mirror elongates the space, making it look more put-together. They’re the safe bet because let’s be honest, they go with just about anything.
• What I always recommend: Go for a frameless version if you want a more contemporary vibe. Prefer something more “Pinterest aesthetic”? A framed version will fit right into your rustic or traditional bathroom setup.

Round Mirrors

• Best for: Minimalist and contemporary spaces.
• Why: They leave more wall visible, making the bathroom sort of balanced and uncluttered.
• What I always recommend: If your bathroom has a lot of straight lines (like square sinks, cabinets, and tiles), a round mirror can soften the aesthetic a bit.

Oval Mirrors

• Best for: Classic, spa-like bathrooms or neutral settings. 
• Why: With their soft curves, oval mirrors add sophistication and height, creating a focal point in any bathroom.
• What I always recommend: Mounting an oval bathroom mirror vertically makes ceilings appear higher, while a horizontal installation creates more width.

Your Bathroom Called… It Wants a Cooler Mirror Shape

Most people default to rectangular, round, or oval mirrors. But if you’re here, you probably want something a little more interesting. Let’s talk about some less common (but way more stylish) mirror shapes that can elevate your bathroom design.

1. Octagon Mirrors: A Geometric Statement

Best for: Adding structure and personality to a modern or vintage-style bathroom.

Why: The sharp angles make it a bold and architectural choice, perfect for industrial or Art Deco-inspired spaces. A rectangle mirror with an edge (literally).

What I always recommend: Pair the octagon mirror with metallic or matte black frames for a more striking look.

2. Racetrack Mirrors: The Contemporary Option

Best for: Anyone who finds rectangles too basic but still wants to go for a modern look.

Why: Think of it as an elongated oval which softens the edges of a rectangular mirror while maintaining a contemporary vibe.

What I always recommend: A racetrack bathroom mirror works great for double vanities and adds a high-end vibe to your space.

3. Square Mirrors: The Understated Classic

Best for: Minimalist bathrooms and symmetrical designs.

Why: Simple, symmetrical and effective. Square mirrors create clean lines and balance well with modern interiors.

What I always recommend: Go with thin metallic frames or backlit LED mirror options for a minimalist aesthetic.

4. Arched Mirrors: Soft & Elegant Options

Best for: Vintage, bohemian, or Mediterranean-inspired bathrooms.

Why: The curved top adds a soft and elegant touch, making it feel more refined than a standard rectangle. It’s also great for adding height and openness to a space.

What I always recommend: Arched mirrors work beautifully with warm and earthy tones and with textured walls.

5. Scalloped Mirrors: Playful Yet Sophisticated

Best for: Feminine, Art Deco, or eclectic interiors.

Why: The decorative and curved edges give it a nice vintage appeal. A scalloped mirror adds charm without feeling too over-the-top.

What I always recommend: Choose a gold or brass frame for a glam vibe or a wooden frame for a coastal aesthetic.

6. Hudson Mirrors: The Bold Statement Piece

Best for: Unique, high-impact spaces.

Why: The curved and sculptural silhouette makes it a design feature. If you want your bathroom to feel custom and upscale, this is a great choice.

What I always recommend: Keep the rest of your décor minimal so the Hudson mirror remains the focal point.

7. Westminster Mirrors: Old-School Luxe

Best for: Traditional, vintage, or Victorian-style bathrooms.

Why: This shape has a classic and architectural feel that adds elegance. Think old mansions and high-end boutique hotels.

What I always recommend: Pair the Westminster mirror with ornate light fixtures and vintage-inspired vanities for a timeless look.

8. Regal Mirrors: Fit for Royalty, Duh (Or Just a Fancy Bathroom)

Best for: Making a bold, luxurious statement.

Why: With decorative peaks and intricate edges, this mirror commands attention. Regal mirrors works in glamorous, vintage, or maximalist spaces.

What I always recommend: Best when paired with chandeliers, marble countertops, and dramatic lighting.

9. Irregular/Organic Mirrors: Edgy Yet Chic

Best for: A modern and fashion-forward bathroom.

Why: An organic or irregular mirror doesn’t conform to traditional shapes. The geometric design adds a touch of high-fashion minimalism.

What I always recommend: Perfect for monochrome bathrooms with high-gloss finishes.

Size Always Matters!

Choosing the right mirror size (yes, we’re still talking about mirrors, get your mind out of the gutter) is so important! And this is where most people go wrong. It needs to be proportional to your vanity and overall bathroom space, or things can start looking real awkward. A small bathroom mirror makes the space feel incomplete, while a large bathroom mirror can overwhelm it.

General Sizing Rules:

• The mirror shouldn’t be wider than your vanity. It should align with or be slightly smaller than the sink width.
• If you have double sinks, you can either opt for two separate mirrors or one large one that spans the length of both.
• The ideal height? 10-15 cm above the tallest faucet to avoid water splashes.

Some Functional Bathroom Mirror Ideas

LED Bathroom Mirror: We All Know About It

• Why: Built-in lighting eliminates shadows on your face, making tasks like shaving and makeup application easier.
• Best for: Well, illuminated bathroom mirrors work for spaces with poor natural light.
• What I always recommend: Look for adjustable lighting settings (warm for ambiance, cool for precision).

Anti-Fog Bathroom Mirror: No More Wiping with Your Hand

• Why: Keeps the mirror clear even after the steamiest shower.
• Best for: Anyone who’s tired of foggy reflections. And that’s everyone. 
• What I always recommend: Pair the anti-fog mirror with LED lighting for the ultimate low-maintenance mirror.

Heated Bathroom Mirror: Say Goodbye to Steam

• Why: Unlike anti-fog coatings, heated mirrors actively prevent condensation buildup by warming the surface.
• Best for: Bathrooms with high humidity levels or poor ventilation.
• What I always recommend: These are often combined with LED lighting for a multifunctional solution.

Battery Operated Bathroom Mirror: No Wiring Needed

• Why: Ideal for renters or bathrooms where hardwiring isn’t an option. Battery-operated mirrors provide wire-free lighting without needing an electrician.
• Best for: Quick installations.
• What I always recommend: Opt for rechargeable models to avoid frequent battery replacements.

Bathroom Mirror with Shaver Socket: It’s Simply Convenient

• Why: These mirrors feature integrated power outlets for electric shavers or toothbrushes, keeping countertops uncluttered.
• Best for: People who need a dedicated power source without extra wall sockets.
• What I always recommend: Ensure the socket is IP-rated for bathroom safety to avoid electrical hazards.

Hear Me Out: A Bathroom Mirror… But with Storage? Genius.

1. Bathroom Mirror Cabinet

Best for: Small bathrooms, minimalist designs, and anyone who needs extra storage without sacrificing wall space.
Why: A bathroom cabinet with a mirror just hides all of your skincare, toiletries, and medicine, keeping countertops clear.
What I always recommend: Opt for a recessed cabinet if you want a built-in look that blends well with your wall.

2. Bathroom Cabinet with Mirror.. and Light

Best for: Anyone who wants a well-lit mirror for makeup, shaving, or grooming while also keeping storage out of sight.
Why: A LED illuminated bathroom cabinet provides built-in LED or ambient lighting, which is perfect for tasks that require clarity and precision.
What I always recommend: Choose a dimmable or adjustable lighting option so you can switch between functional light and a mood-setting one.

Frame Choices

Frameless Bathroom Mirrors

• Best for: Modern or minimalist bathrooms.
• Why: Makes the space look bigger by blending into the background.
• What I always recommend: Works best when paired with modern fixtures and an uncluttered design.

Framed Bathroom Mirrors

• Best for: Traditional, industrial, or rustic spaces. 
• Why: Adds character and warmth to your bathroom. Framed mirrors also allow for personalization with various materials and finishes. 
• What I always recommend: Wood frames give a rustic vibe, while black metal frames are great for industrial-style bathrooms.

Placement and Height

Let me tell you something. A poorly placed mirror can really make a space feel awkward, while the right positioning enhances both lighting and usability.

How High Should Your Mirror Be?

• The bottom edge of the mirror should sit 10-15 cm above the tallest tap to prevent water splashes.
• If you have multiple users of different heights, aim for the center of the mirror to be at eye level for the average user (usually 120-130 cm from the floor).
• For high ceilings, consider placing the mirror slightly higher to create a sense of vertical balance.

Where to Place Your Bathroom Mirror?

Above the Vanity

• The most common placement is a bathroom wall mirror directly above the sink.
• If you have a double vanity, you can either go with one large mirror or two separate mirrors for a more tailored look.

Opposite a Window

• Placing a bathroom wall mirror across from a natural light source helps bounce light around the room, making it feel bigger and brighter.

Freestanding Mirrors for Larger Bathrooms

• A free standing bathroom mirror is perfect if you want flexibility.
• Great for rental spaces or bathrooms with large open layouts, where you can place a leaner mirror against a wall.
• Works best in spacious bathrooms where wall-mounted mirrors may not be enough.

Corner Placement for Small Bathrooms

• In tight spaces, positioning a mirror in the corner can create an illusion of depth.
• This is ideal for small powder rooms or as a secondary mirror to complement a main one.

Full-Length Mirror for a Spa-Like Effect

• If you have the space, adding a large wall-mounted mirror can make a narrow bathroom feel twice as big.
• Perfect for checking your full outfit while maximizing light reflection.

What I always recommend: Always consider lighting placement when installing your mirror. Avoid positioning it where overhead lighting creates unflattering shadows (side sconces or backlit LED mirrors are really the best options).

Smart Mirrors for Modern Bathroom Designs

Smart mirrors equipped with features like touch controls, temperature displays, and Bluetooth connectivity can really improve your daily routine.

What They Can Do:

• Touch controls for adjusting brightness.
• Bluetooth speakers for playing music while you get ready.
• Weather & time displays so you don’t have to check your phone.

What I always recommend: If you like high-tech features in your home, trust me, a smart mirror is worth the investment.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Bathroom Mirror Options

Eco-conscious choices, like mirrors made from recycled materials or sustainably sourced frames, are becoming increasingly popular. And for good reason. They reduce environmental impact while aligning with the growing demand for sustainability in interior design.

So, if you care about the planet (and let’s be honest, someone has to balance out the private jet crowd taking 15-minute city hops), consider:

• Recycled glass mirrors to reduce waste.
• Sustainably sourced wood frames instead of plastic.
• Energy-efficient LED mirrors to cut down on electricity use.

Do Bathroom Mirrors Really Matter? 

So, what did we learn from this massive guide? Always think about your space, lighting, and personal taste before making a decision. No random impulsive purchases when it comes to your bathroom features, alright? Trust me, after working with so many homeowners, I’ve learned that a bathroom is not simply a room, but something more personal. We all see it in our own way: for some, it’s a place to unwind, for others, it’s where they start their day on the right foot. But if there’s one thing we all have in common, it’s that we want it to feel like ours. A space that just makes sense and feels right every time we step in.

Before we wrap this up… I feel like I’m forgetting something. Hmm. Oh yeah! My team and I at AV Modern Bathrooms are casually giving away a free LED vanity mirror with every full bathroom renovation (as long as you’re in North West, North Wales, or parts of the Midlands). So nice of us, right?

But wait, what else do we offer? Well:

• Free initial consultation to discuss your vision.
• Fast and clean installations so you can enjoy your new space ASAP.
• All materials provided (and yes, that includes a free LED mirror with every full renovation, just in case you missed that).
• 1-Year workmanship warranty (not that you’ll need it, but hey, it’s there).
• Showroom experience at 69-71 Higher Parr St, Saint Helens WA9 1AD!

So whenever you are ready, we sure are:

• Call us at +𝟰𝟰 𝟭𝟵𝟰𝟮 𝟯𝟲𝟱𝟵𝟴𝟵;
• Email us at 𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗼@𝗮𝘃𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺𝘀.𝗰𝗼𝗺;
• Click on this link to get a Free Quote;
• Visit us at 𝟲𝟵-𝟳𝟭 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁, 𝗦𝘁. 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘀, 𝗪𝗔𝟵 𝟭𝗔𝗗, 𝗨𝗞 (Our main office is in St. Helens, but as I mentioned earlier, we proudly serve customers across the North West, North Wales, and parts of the Midlands!)