Choosing the right bathroom mirror can completely transform the look and feel of your space. While basic rectangular or oval mirrors are common, there are many creative mirror ideas that can upgrade your bathroom’s style. Here are 8 unique bathroom mirror ideas you may not have considered before:

Use an Accent Mirror

Rather than hanging one large mirror, consider using a few smaller accent mirrors. Accent mirrors with interesting shapes, materials, or framing can add visual interest to your bathroom. Here are some accent mirror ideas to try:

  • Oversized round mirror – A large circular mirror can make a dramatic statement over a vanity. Opt for a beveled edge for added character.
  • Sunburst mirror – The rays of a sunburst mirror instantly catch the eye. Work well over round sinks.
  • Geometric shapes – Try a mirror in a fun shape like a star, diamond, or triangle. Adds modern flair.
  • Mirrored tiles – Use mirrored mosaic tiles to create a shimmering accent wall behind the sink.
  • Framed mirrors – Choose mirrors with bold or ornate frames to complement your decor. Distressed, vintage, or painted frames work well.

Using a combination of different sized accent mirrors adds depth to the room and allows you to reflect light around the space.

Hang Mirrors Creatively

Take your mirrors up, down or across the walls with these creative hanging ideas:

  • Hang a mirror above the toilet as an alternative to art. Gives the eye a place to gaze for privacy.
  • Place mirrors horizontally above the sink instead of vertically. Provides a wide view while washing up.
  • Lean mirrors against the wall for a casual vignette. Looks great with candleholders and plants.
  • Arrange mini mirrors in cluster frames. Collaging small mirrors creates movement and interest.
  • Hang corner mirrors to reflect views of the room itself. Opens up the perspective.

Get inventive with placement to make your mirrors part of the decor instead of just utilitarian.

Use Mirrors to Enlarge Space

Strategically placed mirrors can make a small bathroom feel more spacious:

  • Across from windows – Positioning mirrors across from windows practically doubles the daylight.
  • On the ceiling – Mirrors overhead give the illusion of a higher ceiling.
  • Behind open shelving – Mirrors lining the wall behind open shelves make items appear to float.
  • On cabinet doors – Placing mirrors on cabinet fronts optically enlarges the room.
  • Behind sinks – Sink-spanning mirrors open up tight spaces between vanities.

Mirror placement impacts perceived room size more than actual size. Reflect views to expand your bathroom’s dimensions.

Choose Unique Mirror Shapes

Tired of basic rectangles and ovals? Try a mirror in an unexpected shape for a contemporary vibe:

  • Circles – Round mirrors with clean lines add softness. Works with round sinks.
  • Hexagons – The six-sided shape makes a nice honeycomb pattern. Arrange creatively.
  • Triangles – Equilateral triangles create stability and are easy to cluster.
  • Arched – Graceful arched mirrors complement traditional bathrooms.
  • Wavy – Sinuous wave-shaped mirrors bring an organic, freeform look.
  • Ogee – Mirrors with an ogee curve have a little waist. Provides classic elegance.

Non-rectangular mirrors inject visual interest and give you a chance to get creative.

Light Up Your Mirror

Illuminated mirrors provide both form and function in the bathroom:

  • Perimeter lit – LED lights around the mirror evenly brighten faces.
  • Backlit – Light shining through from behind gives a glowing effect.
  • Hollywood lights – Bulbs circling the mirror create a dressing room feel.
  • Chandelier lit – A small pendant light over the vanity combines lighting and decor.
  • Magnifying – Lighted mirrors that magnify help apply makeup precisely.
  • Defoggers – Built-in defoggers keep mirrors clear during steamy showers.

Look for dimmable lights that provide the right brightness for makeup, shaving or a relaxing soak.

Include Mirror TVs

Mirror TVs take multi-tasking to the next level in the bathroom:

  • Vanity TVs – Small screens built into the mirror above sinks display news or videos.
  • Soaking tub TVs – Waterproof TVs mounted near soaking tubs let you catch shows.
  • Shower TVs – Transparent screens on shower walls allow watching movies as you wash.
  • Mirror defoggers – Defogging technology keeps image clarity through steam.
  • Bluetooth audio – Stream sound from your phone to the mirror speakers.

Watch TV hands-free while completing bathroom routines. Just be sure to get an anti-fog model.

Opt for Antique-Style Mirrors

Vintage-looking mirrors add a touch of nostalgia to bathrooms:

  • Distressed – Old-fashioned mirrors with worn edges fit shabby chic style.
  • Ornate frames – Elaborate carved frames look elegant and antique.
  • Beveled glass – The sloped edge of beveled mirrors is a traditional detail.
  • Silvering defects – Antique silvering flaws create an aged appearance.
  • Handcrafted – Imperfections in handmade mirrors give rustic warmth.
  • Painted – Soft colored frames enhance vintage charm.

Antique mirror styles ranging from weathered to ornate complement traditional decor.

Choose Mirror Color

While mirrors tend to be silver, colored mirrors can make a fun decorative statement:

  • Gold – The warmth of gold mirrors complements glamour and vintage spaces.
  • Black – Sophisticated noir mirrors work well in moody, dramatic bathrooms.
  • White – Clean white mirror frames blend into light and bright rooms.
  • Mirrored tiles – Tiles in shades of blue, purple or gray reflect color around the room.
  • Ombre – Subtle ombre mirrors transition from dark to light.
  • Frosted – Etching produces a soft frosted look with privacy.

Colored and tinted mirrors infuse additional personality into your bathroom’s reflections.

FAQs about Bathroom Mirror Ideas

Here are some common questions people have about choosing creative bathroom mirrors:

How do I choose the right size bathroom mirror?

The ideal mirror size depends on your vanity and wall space, but a general rule is to choose a mirror that spans at least the entire width of the vanity. For double sinks, use individual mirrors or a very wide mirror extending over both sinks.

Where should bathroom mirrors go?

The most common spot is centered over the sink vanity. But you can also hang mirrors above the toilet as art, across from windows to reflect light, or clustered creatively on the walls for interest.

What type of mirror is best for a small bathroom?

For a small bathroom, use a few well-placed small mirrors instead of one large one to make the space feel bigger. Position mirrors across from windows and next to open shelving.

How do I keep my bathroom mirrors from fogging up?

Use a fan or open a window while bathing to control humidity. You can also choose mirrors with built-in anti-fog technology or apply special coatings to prevent fogging. Avoid very hot showers.

Should I light my bathroom mirror?

Lighted mirrors provide ideal visibility for grooming. Perimeter-lit LED mirrors give the best balance of light. Defoggers and magnifying options are also useful.

What’s the best way to clean bathroom mirrors?

Use a soft microfiber cloth with a 50/50 mix of water and isopropyl alcohol. This helps lift dirt and grime without leaving streaks. Avoid abrasive cleaners or paper towels that can scratch.

How can I decorate around a bathroom mirror?

Try framing with decorative tiles or wallpaper. Hang artwork like paintings, photos or wall sculptures around or next to the mirror. Add interest below with a console table, flowers, candles or shelving.

Conclusion

With so many creative options, a bathroom mirror doesn’t have to be boring. Accent mirrors, strategic placement to enlarge space, unique shapes and well-chosen lighting can all help upgrade your bathroom’s style. Vintage or colored mirrors also lend personality. Be adventurous with your mirror decor and transform the look of your bathroom.