Which vanity mirror is the right choice for your bathroom renovation project? Whether you recently planned a full redesign or just want to freshen this room, take a look at what you need to know about selecting a mirror.

How Large Is the Vanity?

Traditionally, the bathroom mirror should match the width of the vanity below it. This means the mirror should extend from one side of the sink or countertop (whichever is longer) to the other. The end-to-end method typically works best with square- or rectangle-shaped mirrors. Even though this type of sizing is a common way to choose a vanity mirror's width, it isn't the only option.

You can select a mirror that's slightly smaller or wider than the vanity itself. But if you choose this option, you need to consider the overall scale of the area. An overly narrow mirror combined with a wide vanity can make this piece of bathroom glass look out of place or shrunken. A wide mirror paired with a skinny vanity can have the opposite effect - and create the illusion of a shrunken vanity. 

Instead of a wide gap between the mirror's ends and the vanity's edges, subtract four to six inches at a maximum. This creates a gap or space of only a few inches on each end of the mirror.

Does the Vanity Have a Raised Sink?

Bathroom sinks aren't always flush with the countertop. If the sink bowl sits above the counter, you have additional placement and sizing options. Some homeowners prefer to match the mirror's edges to the ends of the sink bowl, while others use the counter as a guide.

There is no universal rule for matching in this type of situation. You will need to consider the overall bathroom design plan, the sink, the counter, the mirror's shape, and your personal preferences.

How Large Is the Bathroom?

The dimensions of the vanity aren't the only sizes you need to consider when you select a bathroom mirror. Along with the width of the vanity or sink, you also need to think about how the mirror will look in the room. 

While you don't have any strict sizing rules, scale is an important factor. A tiny mirror will look lost in a larger bathroom. But the opposite isn't always true. A larger mirror can reflect the light and open up a smaller-sized room.

How Many Vanity Mirrors Do You Want?

A wide mirror isn't the only option for a larger vanity. Instead of one mirror, you can choose two, three, or more mirrors. A double mirror design can complement a dual sink. Not only do two mirrors match the two sink setup, but this option also serves an important function. If two people will use the vanity area at the same time, both household members can have their own individual mirror space.

You don't necessarily need to have two sinks to choose two mirrors. A double or triple mirror design can add a visually interesting element to your bathroom and give the appearance of additional space. This option is ideal if you have a longer countertop or want to reflect more light.

What Shape Mirror Do You Want?

Even though many bathroom mirrors are traditional-looking rectangles, you can select a different shape. Vanity-top mirrors are available in a variety of options, including circles, squares, ovals, and free-form organic shapes. If you prefer a non-standard shape, talk to a custom glass contractor about the design options.

Do you need a custom-designed bathroom vanity mirror to complete your renovation project? Contact Monterey Glass Specialists Inc. for more information on sizes and shapes.