What is a standard bathroom mirror?
A standard mirror is a wall-mounted bathroom mirror without built-in lights, demisters or storage. It is the simplest and most versatile way to finish the wall above a basin or vanity unit. Without wiring or electrics to plan around, it can be hung almost anywhere, and it works with any lighting you already have in the room. A good bathroom mirror also does more than show your reflection. It doubles the light from the window and ceiling, adds depth to a small room and gives the basin area a finished, balanced look. Standard mirrors are a practical choice for main bathrooms, en-suites, downstairs cloakrooms and guest bathrooms alike.
A mirror for every daily routine
For many people, the bathroom mirror is where the day starts. When applying makeup, a clear, distortion-free reflection makes it easier to blend foundation and concealer evenly, get eyeliner and mascara right and check that brows are balanced. A mirror wide enough to see your full face and shoulders helps you judge how your look comes together, while a closer view is useful for detailed work. The same goes for a skincare routine, applying serums, moisturiser and SPF, putting in contact lenses or styling and drying hair after a shower.
For men, the mirror is just as important. A clean shave depends on seeing the jawline, chin and neck clearly, and keeping a beard or moustache neatly shaped means checking both sides of the face as you trim. It is also where you style hair, check your skin and give your appearance a final once-over before heading out. Then there are the everyday tasks everyone shares: brushing and flossing teeth, washing your face, doing children's hair before school, and checking your outfit before work or an evening out. In a busy family bathroom, a larger mirror lets two people use it at the same time.
Getting the lighting right
Because a standard mirror has no built-in lights, the lighting in the room makes a big difference to how well it works. A single ceiling light directly overhead tends to cast shadows under the eyes, nose and chin, which is not ideal for makeup or shaving. Wall lights on either side of the mirror, or a light above it, give a more even, flattering light across the face. Natural daylight from a window beside the mirror is the most accurate light for makeup, so position the mirror to make the most of it where you can. If you would prefer the light built into the mirror itself, our illuminated mirrors combine LED lighting with the mirror in one unit.
Choosing the right mirror
Start with the basin or vanity unit below. As a general rule, the mirror looks best when it is the same width as the basin or slightly narrower, so it sits centred and balanced above it. For a twin basin, you can choose one wide mirror or two matching mirrors, one above each bowl. Hang it so the centre of the mirror is roughly at eye level for the main users, and leave a little space above the tap so splashes do not reach the glass. Each product page lists the full dimensions so you can check the fit against your wall.
Then think about style. Round and oval mirrors soften a room with straight lines and square tiles, while rectangular mirrors give a clean, classic look. A framed mirror in chrome, black or brass can match your taps, shower and towel rail, and a slim frame helps a mirror stand out against a busy tile pattern. For close-up tasks like tweezing brows or detailed shaving, a shaving mirror with magnification works well alongside a standard mirror. If you need extra storage, a mirror cabinet hides toiletries behind the glass.
Looking after a bathroom mirror
Bathroom mirrors are exposed to steam every day, so a little care keeps them clear. Good ventilation, such as an extractor fan or an open window after showering, reduces condensation on the glass and helps protect the edges and backing over time. Clean the glass with a soft microfibre cloth and a glass cleaner or a little diluted washing-up liquid, and avoid spraying cleaner directly at the edges. Dry any water that splashes onto the frame. Mirrors should be fixed securely into a solid wall with fixings suited to the weight. Tile Merchant supplies bathroom products only and does not provide fitting.
Frequently asked questions
What size mirror should go above a bathroom basin?
The mirror usually looks best when it is the same width as the basin or slightly narrower. Check the product dimensions against your basin or vanity unit before ordering.
How high should a bathroom mirror be hung?
Aim for the centre of the mirror to be roughly at eye level for the main users, with a small gap above the tap to avoid splashes.
Is a standard mirror good for applying makeup?
Yes, especially with good lighting. Wall lights on either side of the mirror or natural daylight give the most even light for makeup.
What is the difference between a standard and an illuminated mirror?
A standard mirror has no built-in lights or electrics, so it can be hung anywhere. An illuminated mirror has LED lighting built in and needs an electrical connection.
Do you deliver bathroom mirrors across Ireland?
Yes. We deliver nationwide, and each product page shows the expected delivery time and whether the item is available for collection.