Wondering whether bathroom mirrors are different to other mirrors in your home? Join us, as we take a journey through the looking glass, and find out the answer to this question.
Ever since humans discovered they could see their reflection in polished surfaces, mirrors have been much-prized possessions. Nowadays, it’s often considered strange if someone doesn’t have at least one mirror in their home. In fact, it’s common to find mirrors in virtually every room, from the living room to the bedroom, and from the hallway to the bathroom.
While mirrors may provide a basic function, there are subtle yet important differences between them as you move from room to room. So, how do bathroom mirrors differ to, say, a bedroom mirror?
Are bathroom mirrors different?
In short, yes, bathroom mirrors tend to be different from mirrors used in other parts of the home.
For example, bathroom mirrors are specifically designed to withstand the unique conditions present in a bathroom environment, which includes high humidity, moisture and frequent temperature changes.
We’ve come up with handful of ways bathroom mirrors are different from regular mirrors.
Moisture resistance
Bathroom mirrors are typically moisture-resistant or even waterproof. In some cases, they are designed to resist fogging, so you can still use the mirror even when the bathroom gets steamy after a hot bath or shower. This is often achieved through special coatings or by incorporating a heating element to prevent condensation—known as a demister.
If you’d like to know more, why not read our article on anti-fog bathroom mirrors?
The Wyatt LED illuminated mirror comes complete with demister, so you can see clearly, even when you step straight out of the shower
Safety features
Bathroom mirrors may have safety features that help minimise the risk of accidents. For example, they are usually made of tempered glass, which is less likely to shatter into sharp shards if broken. This is important for safety in case of accidental breakage.
At Victoria Plum, mirrors are tested in accordance with BS7499 and BS6206, which are the relevant British Standards for glass.
Illuminated mirrors, which need to be wired to the mains, often come with a specific IP rating, meaning they can be used within specific bathroom electrical zones.
The Rockford rustic window mirror has been tested in accordance with BS7499 and BS6206
Lighting options
Many bathroom mirrors come with integrated lighting options. These can include built-in LED lights or light bars around the mirror, providing enhanced visibility for grooming tasks and adding a touch of ambiance to the bathroom. The lights can be switched on either using a pull cord or a touchless infrared sensor.
Discover the benefits of illuminated mirrors in our recent article.
The Shine LED illuminated mirror comes complete with cool white LEDs in a circular formation
Size and shape
Bathroom mirrors come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different bathroom layouts and personal preferences. They can range from small, functional mirrors to large, decorative statement pieces. If you’re looking to create a specific style, like an Art Deco bathroom for example, you may want to accessorise with a particular mirror design.
Sprinkle some of that Art Deco magic on your bathroom with the Beaumont bathroom mirror
Added storage
Instead of a conventional mirror, many people opt for a mirror cabinet for their bathroom. This provides additional storage, which is especially welcome in small, easily-cluttered spaces, with room for smaller items like toothbrushes, lotions and deodorants.
If you’re looking to create a bathroom that’s safe for children, a mirror cabinet is ideal, allowing you to store potentially hazardous items like medication up and away from small hands.
The Clarity white mirror cabinet offers simple yet effective wall storage
Mounting options
Bathroom mirrors may have specific mounting options suitable for the bathroom environment. Some mirrors are designed for wall mounting, while others can be recessed into the wall or mounted on specialised bathroom cabinets.
If you’re looking to do a bit of DIY, read our guide on how to put up a bathroom mirror.
The Mandrelli round black LED illuminated mirror comes complete with a chic leather strap and choice of colour temperatures
Design and style
Bathroom mirrors often feature designs and styles that complement the overall look and feel of the bathroom. They can come in various frame finishes, such as chrome, brushed nickel, or wood, to match different bathroom decor styles.
If you’re buying storage units from a specific bathroom furniture range, you will usually find a mirror designed to match.
This beautiful mirror is designed to complement the award-winning Dulwich navy furniture range
More bathroom mirror ideas and advice
When shopping for a bathroom mirror, it's essential to consider all these factors to ensure you choose something that meets your functional needs, enhances the overall look of your bathroom and, above all, reflects well on you!
In need of inspiration? We’ve compiled 10 of our best bathroom mirrors all in one place, plus to help you make an informed decision, why not read our bathroom mirror and cabinet buying guide?
Shop bathroom mirrors and mirrored cabinets
For a superb range of high quality bathroom mirrors and mirrored cabinets, why not browse our full and comprehensive selection? Simply click below to begin shopping.
