Bathroom mirror buying guide

Mirrored cabinet

A practical choice, this type of mirror also serves as a handy bathroom unit. These cabinets generally feature two or three doors and a number of shelves inside. Some bathroom cabinets are fitted with a low-voltage power supply and built-in lighting.

Stick-on mirror

Very easy to install, these come with a film designed to be stuck down on any smooth surface. Be careful, however, as you can end up damaging the surface you stick them to (this is not a problem with tiles).

Light-up mirror

Helpful for tasks that require precision – such as applying make-up and shaving – these mirrors have a lighting system that avoids unhelpful shadow on your face. Models with LED lighting are particularly good for uniform results.

Smart mirror

Some mirrors even offer a Bluetooth connection and built-in speaker allowing you to listen to music as you get ready. Oh, the joys of technology...!

Anti-fog mirrors

This type of mirror is particularly suited to bathrooms that do not feature a window or have limited ventilation (for instance, if there's no extractor fan installed).

Magnifying mirror

Mounted on feet or on the wall, these mirrors are great for applying make-up and taking care of blackheads! They can come on a telescopic arm and are usually round in shape.

Standard hanging mirror

Square, round, oval, rectangular... standard mirrors can either be framed or feature polished edges. The dimensions of hanging mirrors vary though they're usually attached to the wall with specialised fittings or on a peg or hook. Frameless mirrors can be fixed with double-sided adhesive strips and, if installed in a row, can even be used to create a mirror wall.

Long-length mirror 

Long-length mirrors are rectangular in shape and generally stand on the floor. The glass itself can be fixed or tilting while the frame is usually tall, narrow and can be made of a variety of materials.

Shape 

The shape of your bathroom mirror plays a major role both in terms of practicality and style. If you are looking for a decent surface area to see yourself in, a large rectangular, round or square mirror is perfect. To see your face from a range of angles, a triptych model is a great option.

Size

It makes sense to choose the size of your mirror based on the amount of free space you have: too small and it'll be inconvenient to use and won't add anything to your bathroom, but too large and you run the risk of it being out of proportion with the rest of the room.

Fittings

To ensure user safety, and keep the mirror securely in place, it's essential to choose the right fittings for your bathroom wall (e.g. fixing plugs designed for wood or plasterboard.

Fittings may be sold separately in different styles and levels of quality. Of course, adhesive tape can always be used for lighter models.

Materials

Frame materials vary from one mirror to the next and this often has the biggest impact in terms of style. Choose from:

• Exotic wood for a natural, Feng Shui type look (teak, eucalyptus, bamboo etc.);

• Wrought iron for a vintage-style feel;

• Stainless steel for modernity and durability;

• Epoxy steel, generally in black;

• PVC in a wide range of colours;

• Painted wood or even driftwood for a seaside / rustic feel;

• Mosaic, etc.