The Ultimate Bathroom Mirror Buying Guide
When updating or renovating your bathroom, selecting the perfect bathroom mirror is an essential step. This bathroom mirror buying guide will help you navigate the many options available, ensuring you find the right mirror to suit your space, style, and needs. A well-chosen mirror not only adds functionality but also enhances light and creates the illusion of a larger, more open bathroom.
With so many bathroom mirrors to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. From classic vanity mirrors to sleek, modern designs, finding the right fit can make a significant impact on your bathroom’s overall aesthetic and practicality.
In this guide, we’ll explore the various types of bathroom mirrors and provide expert tips to help you make an informed choice. Whether you’re after a timeless style or a unique statement piece, we’ve got you covered!
The benefits of using a bathroom mirror
A bathroom mirror can be a great asset in any home. Not only does it provide a place to check your appearance before heading out for the day, but it can also help to brighten up a small space. Mirrors reflect light, making a room appear larger and more open. In addition, mirrors can be used to create the illusion of more storage space.
For instance, positioning a mirror next to an overflowing medicine cabinet can give the illusion of a larger, better-organised space. Bathroom mirrors are also a great way to add a personal touch to your décor. Whether you choose a framed mirror or one with an intricate design, a bathroom mirror can help make your space feel like your own.
If you are looking for a mirror for a small space, don’t miss our guide to The Best Mirrors for Small Bathrooms.
Types of bathroom mirrors
A bathroom mirror can be a quite simple affair, serving its utilitarian purpose while providing a surface on which to check your appearance before heading out for the day. Or it can be a more stylish addition to your décor, showcasing your personal taste and adding a touch of elegance to the room. Regardless of your style preferences, there is sure to be a type of bathroom mirror that will suit your needs. Here is a quick overview of the most popular types of bathroom mirrors:
Round Bathroom Mirrors
Round bathroom mirrors are a top choice for modern, minimalist, and Scandi-style bathrooms. Their soft curves break up sharp lines from vanities and wall tiles, creating a balanced, welcoming feel. Ideal for small bathrooms, a round mirror opens up space and looks great over a floating vanity or pedestal basin.
I used one in my own guest bathroom renovation—our 600mm matte black round mirror—and it completely lifted the room. It softened the subway tiles, matched the black tapware, and made the space feel more considered.
You’ll find round-framed mirrors in matte black, brass, and brushed gold in our store, or opt for a frameless look for a clean, understated appearance. Round mirrors suit just about any space and never go out of style.
Check out our article, Tips for Using Large Round Mirrors in Home Design, for expert advice on perfecting the placement of your round mirror.
Best for: Small bathrooms, powder rooms, Scandi or modern bathrooms, wall-hung vanities.
Styling tip: Pair round mirrors with a textured tile or curved basin to echo the mirror’s curved shape.
Oval Bathroom Mirrors
Oval bathroom mirrors are perfect if you’re after a softer, more elegant shape. They combine the curved edges of round mirrors with the vertical lines of rectangles—making them ideal for narrow walls or bathrooms with higher ceilings.
This shape suits classic, Hamptons, or heritage-style bathrooms, but it also works in more modern settings when paired with the right finish. You’ll also find pill-shaped bathroom mirrors growing in popularity—they offer a similar profile to ovals but with a more contemporary twist.
At Ross’s, we stock a range of oval and pill-shaped mirrors in various sizes and frame finishes, all on display in our Guildford showroom.
Best for: Heritage bathrooms, Hamptons style, narrow walls, high ceilings.
Styling tip: Hang pill mirrors vertically to draw the eye upward and visually elongate the wall.
Square Bathroom Mirrors
Square bathroom mirrors bring clean lines and a balanced look to any space. They’re especially good in modern, minimalist, or industrial-style bathrooms, where symmetry is part of the design. A square mirror works best above a single vanity and helps define the layout without overpowering it.
I often recommend them to customers updating rental properties or investment homes. They’re easy to position, available in a wide range of sizes, and offer a crisp, no-fuss style that appeals to most tenants and buyers.
Square mirrors pair well with framed or frameless styles. Choose a square matte black or chrome mirror for a sleek, modern finish, or opt for a square brushed gold mirror to add warmth and contrast.
Best for: Single vanities, modern or minimalist bathrooms, budget-friendly renovations.
Styling tip: Choose a square mirror to match the width of your vanity for a sharp, proportional look.
Rectangular Bathroom Mirrors
Rectangular bathroom mirrors are by far the most popular shape—and it’s easy to see why. They’re versatile, timeless, and work with virtually every bathroom style. Whether you’re renovating a main bathroom, ensuite, or powder room, a rectangular mirror will do the job and look great doing it.
One of the most popular options we sell is the large frameless rectangular mirror. It’s perfect for stretching across double vanities or making a small bathroom feel much bigger. Mounted horizontally, it visually expands the space and reflects more light. Mounted vertically, it adds height—ideal for narrow walls or wall-hung vanities.
At Ross’s, we stock a wide range of framed and frameless rectangular mirrors in all sizes. You’ll find many of them on display in our Guildford showroom.
Best for: Family bathrooms, double vanities, modern or traditional layouts.
Styling tip: Choose a frameless rectangular mirror for a clean, uninterrupted look—perfect over floating or wall-mounted vanities.
LED Bathroom Mirrors
LED bathroom mirrors are becoming one of the most sought-after upgrades in modern bathrooms—and it’s easy to see why. They combine practical lighting with stylish design, bringing a genuine sense of luxury to your space.
We stock a wide range of LED mirrors, including standard LED, backlit LED, and high-tech options with Bluetooth speakers and magnifying mirrors built in. Whether you’re getting ready for work or winding down at night, these mirrors provide clear, even lighting—no more harsh downlights or shadows.
LED mirrors are perfect above bathroom vanities and are also popular in salons or makeup stations where detail matters. The backlit styles are especially popular in contemporary bathrooms, creating a soft, ambient glow that adds to the mood of the room.
You’ll find LED mirrors on display at Ross’s, ready to take home or have delivered across Perth Metro.
See if LED mirrors are for you in our article, LED Bathroom Mirrors: Are They Worth the Hype?
Best for: Modern bathrooms, restrooms, vanities, makeup stations, salons.
Styling tip: Choose an LED mirror with built-in Bluetooth to play music or podcasts while getting ready—form and function in one.
Arch Bathroom Mirrors
Arch bathroom mirrors are a standout trend right now, offering a softer, more refined alternative to square or rectangle shapes. With their curved tops and clean lines, arched mirrors bring an elegant look that suits everything from minimalist to Mediterranean-inspired bathrooms.
At Ross’s, we stock both arched LED mirrors and arched mirrored shaving cabinets, combining this stylish shape with practical features. The LED versions offer soft, even lighting—great for applying makeup or shaving—while the mirrored cabinets provide extra storage without compromising on aesthetics.
These mirrors are ideal for above vanities or as statement pieces in larger bathrooms or salons. Their unique shape draws the eye and adds visual height, making even compact spaces feel taller.
Read our post, Arch Bathroom Mirror Design Ideas for Every Style, for inspiration on incorporating an arched mirror in your home.
Best for: Contemporary bathrooms, curved design themes, vanities, and feature walls.
Styling tip: Use an arched mirror to break up harsh angles in a tiled space or balance out straight vanity lines.
Framed Bathroom Mirrors
Framed bathroom mirrors are a great way to tie your mirror into your overall bathroom style. They add definition and help anchor the space—especially when matched with tapware or accessories.
You’ll find framed options available in popular shapes, including round, square, rectangular, and pill mirrors, making it easy to find one that fits your layout and style. Mirror frame finishes include brushed gold, matte black, white, brushed nickel, and gunmetal—ideal for coordinating with your bathroom tapware, vanity handles, towel rails, or lighting.
Whether you’re going for bold contrast or soft tones, a framed mirror brings extra style without compromising function. They’re also a great choice when you want to add warmth or texture to an otherwise minimalist bathroom.
Best for: Statement features, cohesive colour palettes, bathrooms with matching fixtures.
Styling tip: Match your mirror frame with your tapware or towel rails to pull the whole room together.
Frameless Bathroom Mirrors
Frameless bathroom mirrors are all about clean lines and simplicity. They offer a sleek, modern look that works in just about any bathroom—whether you’re renovating a family ensuite, upgrading a rental, or giving a powder room a quick refresh.
One of the most common uses we see is large frameless rectangular mirrors mounted above a vanity. They’re hugely popular because they reflect more light, make rooms feel bigger, and keep the focus on other design elements like tiles or tapware.
Frameless mirrors also work well with minimalist styles or if you want a neutral, low-profile option that doesn’t compete with bold finishes. At Ross’s, you’ll find a range of frameless mirrors in various shapes and sizes in stock to suit both compact and oversized bathrooms.
Best for: Modern bathrooms, double vanities, minimalist interiors, wall-to-wall mirror coverage.
Styling tip: For a seamless look, run a frameless mirror the full width of your vanity—it adds light, depth, and polish without any visual clutter.
Bathroom Shaving Cabinets
Mirrored shaving cabinets have come a long way from the old-school medicine cabinet. Today’s designs are sleek, stylish, and available in a variety of shapes—including round, arched, and pill—as well as more modern versions of the classic rectangle.
They combine two essentials in one: a mirror and much-needed storage. Ideal for keeping everyday items out of sight, shaving cabinets help reduce clutter while maximising space—especially in smaller bathrooms or ensuites. Many also feature soft-close doors and adjustable shelving, making them just as practical as they are attractive.
Framed or frameless, with or without LED lighting, there’s a mirror cabinet style to suit every bathroom layout.
Best for: Extra storage, small bathrooms, ensuite upgrades, clutter-free vanities.
Styling tip: Select a mirrored cabinet in the same shape as your basin or vanity to maintain a cohesive look.
Want to know more? Check out our guide on why mirror cabinets are worth including in your bathroom, or read our comparison on standard mirrors versus shaving cabinets to help you decide what’s right for your space.
Size and shape of the mirror
The first thing to consider when choosing a bathroom mirror is size. Choosing the right mirror size for a vanity depends on various things: How large do you need the mirror to be? Will it be the only mirror in the room, or will it be part of a larger vanity? Often the size of the mirror is depicted by the size of the vanity. For example, if you have a 900mm wide vanity, you’ll have a 900mm or smaller mirror. Once you’ve decided on the size of the mirror, you’ll need to choose a shape.
The most common shapes for bathroom mirrors are rectangular and square. However, many unique options are also available, such as oval mirrors and round mirrors or rectangular mirrors with bevelled edges. Ultimately, the best way to choose a shape is to select one that complements the other fixtures in your bathroom. For example, an oval mirror would be a good choice if your sink is oval-shaped. A rectangular mirror would be the best option if you have a traditional rectangular vanity. By taking these factors into consideration, you can find the perfect mirror for your bathroom.
For expert tips on height, spacing, and more, explore our comprehensive Vanity Mirror Placement Guide.
Style of the mirror
Along with the shape and size of the mirror, you also need to consider the mirror style. This needs to complement the overall design of your bathroom.
If it is a contemporary space, you may want to choose a mirror with a sleek, modern frame. If your bathroom has more traditional elements, aluminium or wood frames may be a better option. Another factor to consider is the colour and material of the frame. White frames can create a clean, minimalist look, while wood grain frames can add warmth to the space. Finally, decide whether you want a polished edge or a bevelled edge mirror. Polished edges create a sleek look, while bevelled edges can add visual interest to the mirror.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. Whichever style you choose, ensure it fits with your bathroom’s overall aesthetics. If style is at the core of your selection process, you’ll definitely want to check out our article on bathroom mirror trends to see what bathroom mirrors are in style this year.
Framed or frameless?
When choosing a bathroom mirror, you’ll also need to decide between a frameless or framed design. Frameless mirrors are more contemporary and can help to make a small bathroom feel larger. They’re also easier to clean since there’s no metal or wood frame to trap dust and dirt. However, frameless mirrors are more expensive and can be more challenging to install.
Framed mirrors, on the other hand, are more traditional and can be more budget-friendly; however, they are making a comeback, round and oval framed mirrors in particular.
Another benefit of framed mirrors is that they tend to be easier to install since the frame supports the mirror. However, you’ll need to be careful when cleaning a framed mirror, as water can damage the frame over time.
As mentioned above, various frames are available, from black and white plastic to woodgrain and aluminium. So make sure you choose one that matches your bathroom style. Ultimately, the best mirror for your bathroom depends on your personal style and budget.
Mirror glazing options
Regarding mirror glazing, there are a couple of options to choose from. Regular mirrored glass is the most common type of glazing and can be used for various purposes. However, it is also the most susceptible to scratches and other damage. Tinted mirrored glass is another popular option; it can help reduce glare and heat build-up. However, it is important to note that tinted mirror glass can also distort reflections and reduce the amount of light reflected from the mirror. So, if you’re looking to maximise light, regular mirrored glass would be the better choice.
Ultimately, the best type of mirror glazing for your needs will depend on the specific application.
Mirror functionality
When shopping for a new bathroom mirror, you’ll want to consider its functionality. Do you need any extras, like shelves, lights, or a magnifying mirror? Many bathroom mirrors today come with added features such as these.
If your budget is limited, you may want to purchase a basic mirror that only offers a reflection in terms of functionality. However, it’s often worth buying a mirror with added functionality if you have the funds available. This will save you time and money in the long run.
Lights are particularly important if your primary use for the mirror is grooming, such as shaving or applying makeup. A magnifying mirror can also be very handy for those who need a closer look at their face. If your bathroom lacks space, then a shaving cabinet will be a godsend to your bathroom. You’ll benefit from the extra storage, and it will also help keep your bathroom tidy.
Keep these things in mind when shopping for your new bathroom mirror, and you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs.
Price and quality considerations
Bathroom mirrors can range in price from under $100 to over $1,000, depending on whether you purchase one off the shelf or have a custom mirror cut and installed. If you’ve already blown your bathroom budget on the renovation, then consider purchasing a mirror from Ross’s Discount Home Centre. We have a range of mirrors, including round, oval, square, rectangle, framed, and frameless mirrors, starting at the low price of $70.00. We also have shaving cabinets for just $180.00. So whatever your budget, whatever type of mirror you decide on, you can be sure to find it at Ross’s.
In terms of quality, make sure you purchase a mirror that is made with high-quality glass.
This is especially important if you plan on hanging it over your sink where water splashes can cause damage. Mirrors made of durable materials with protective coatings can prevent spotting or rusting. C.A.T Waterproofing Treatment is a common feature of our bathroom mirrors. This means they can withstand high humidity levels without condensation forming on the mirror’s surface. This is a must-have feature if you live in an area with hard water.
By keeping these considerations in mind, you can find the perfect bathroom mirror for your home.
Conclusion
When shopping for a bathroom mirror, there are many things to consider. The first decision is whether you want a framed or frameless mirror. Frames are available in a range of materials and styles, so choose the one that best suits your bathroom’s décor.
Glazing is another important consideration – regular mirrored glass is the most common type, but it can be scratched or damaged easily. Tinted mirrored glass can help reduce glare and heat build-up, but it may not be suitable if you want to maximise light reflection. Functionality is also important; do you need any extra features like shelves, lights or a magnifying mirror?
Many mirrors today come with added functionality such as these, so it’s worth considering if your budget allows it. Lights are particularly important if you plan on using the mirror primarily for grooming tasks. If space is limited, opt for a shaving cabinet that will also provide extra storage. Price and quality should also be considered when making your purchase; make sure you buy a high-quality mirror made with durable materials that can withstand water splashes.
By considering all these factors, you can be sure to find the perfect bathroom mirror for your home. For more advice, read our guide: How to Choose the Perfect Restroom Mirror.
And when it comes to buying bathroom mirrors in Perth, look no further than Ross’s Discount Home Centre. View our mirror range to start shopping today!
