Vanity Mirror Placement Guide: Height, Spacing, and Pro Tips
If you’ve ever struggled to use a vanity mirror that’s set too high, too low, or awkwardly off-centre, you’ll know just how much difference proper mirror placement makes in your bathroom. It’s one of those details that gets overlooked in bathroom design, but the right mirror height and position will not only make your daily routine smoother—it can also transform the way your bathroom looks and feels.
Over the years at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, I’ve helped plenty of Perth homeowners find the perfect bathroom vanity mirrors for every space, from compact ensuites to family bathrooms. Placing your vanity and mirror just right improves lighting, helps with makeup or shaving, and creates a balanced, functional bathroom that looks great from every angle.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about mirror placement—covering ideal heights, spacing, symmetry, and a few pro tips to ensure your next renovation gets it spot on. Whether you’re planning a big update or just swapping out your old mirror, you’ll find practical, easy-to-follow advice right here.
Mirror Height Over Vanity
Ever tried to use a bathroom mirror that just doesn’t line up with your face, or found yourself ducking and weaving to catch your own reflection? Getting the right vanity mirror height makes all the difference, not just for your daily routine, but for the overall feel and function of your bathroom.
Some of the most common questions I get at Ross’s Discount Home Centre are, “How high should a mirror be above a vanity?” and “What’s the standard vanity mirror height?” Here’s how to get it right.
Ideal Heights for Single Vanities
For a single vanity, the standard rule of thumb is to hang your bathroom vanity mirror so the centre sits roughly at eye level for most users—typically around 150–165cm from the floor in Australian homes. More specifically, aim for your mirror to sit 10–20cm above the top of the basin. This range works well for most adults, but you can always adjust a little higher or lower to suit your household.
If your vanity has an above-counter basin, you might need to raise the mirror slightly, while an undermount or insert basin usually lets you keep the mirror a bit lower. Don’t forget about who’ll be using the bathroom most—if you’ve got younger kids, it might be worth lowering the mirror just a touch. I’ve seen plenty of parents at come back for a bigger mirror after realising their kids can’t see a thing in the first one!
Heights for Double Vanities and Family Bathrooms
When it comes to double vanities, consistency is key—both mirrors should be hung at the same height, with the centre of each mirror aligned with the centre of its respective basin. This looks balanced and keeps things practical for couples or families sharing a bathroom.
In shared or family bathrooms, it’s smart to consider accessibility as well. Lowering the mirrors just a little, or choosing a taller mirror, makes it easier for everyone in the house to use. For wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, I always recommend measuring carefully and opting for a mirror that offers a generous vertical range.
Tips for Different Mirror Shapes
Not every bathroom mirror is a classic rectangle these days! Round LED mirrors like our Eclipse range are incredibly popular for modern bathrooms, but they do need a little extra attention to placement.
Always measure from the centre of the mirror to get your height right. For tall, vertical mirrors, make sure the bottom edge is low enough for kids or shorter users, while still giving taller adults a clear view. Backlit mirrors and LED bathroom mirrors often look best when they’re centred over the basin, but double-check the product’s recommended mounting height—some are designed to sit a little higher or lower for the best lighting effect.
TL;DR: Hang your vanity mirror so the centre is at eye level—around 150–165cm from the floor or 10–20cm above the basin. Double vanities need both mirrors at the same height, and always tailor your placement for your family’s needs and mirror style.
Spacing and Width: Mirror vs Vanity
Getting the spacing and width right between your vanity and mirror is just as important as mirror height—if your mirror’s too wide, too narrow, or off-centre, it can throw off the look of the whole bathroom.
I’m often asked whether a vanity mirror should be wider, narrower, or exactly the same width as the vanity. The answer comes down to a mix of style and function—and a little bit of personal preference. I go over this in more detail in our article, How to Choose the Right Mirror Size for Your Vanity, so I recommend you also check that out.
Mirror Width vs Vanity Width
The best practice is for your mirror to be slightly narrower than your vanity, typically around 80–90% of the vanity’s width. This leaves a small, even gap on each side, creating a balanced, modern look that works for most bathrooms. A mirror that matches the exact width of your vanity can look sleek in contemporary designs, especially with floating vanities. If you go for a mirror that’s wider than your vanity, it’s generally only suitable in large bathrooms with plenty of wall space and a bold design style—otherwise, it can look out of place.
Think about how your vanity and mirror work together with the rest of your bathroom layout. A big mirror above a compact vanity can make a small room feel larger, while a well-proportioned pair can help anchor a bigger bathroom.
Spacing for Double Vanities
If you have a double vanity, spacing becomes even more important. The question, “How far apart should bathroom mirrors be?” comes up all the time. For two mirrors above a double vanity, leave about 5–10cm between the mirrors and keep each mirror centred over its basin. Try to match the spacing on the outside edges (to the wall) and inside edges (between the two mirrors) for a neat, symmetrical look. Don’t forget to check how close the mirrors are to your tapware—leave enough room to avoid splashes and for easy cleaning.
Wall Clearance and Edge Distances
Always consider the wall clearance around your bathroom vanity mirrors. Aim for at least 5–10cm between the mirror’s edge and any nearby wall or tall cabinet. If you have a backsplash, the mirror should sit just above it, with a small gap (2–5cm) for easy cleaning and to avoid trapping moisture. In small bathrooms, using a taller or wider mirror can help bounce more light around, making the room feel more spacious. Just don’t crowd the mirror up against the ceiling or wall, as it can look cramped and be harder to maintain.
TL;DR: Your mirror should be around 80–90% the width of your vanity, with even spacing on each side. For double vanities, centre each mirror over its basin and leave a comfortable gap between mirrors and the wall for a balanced, polished finish.
Symmetry, Proportion, and Aesthetics
There’s nothing quite like a bathroom where everything just feels “right”—and symmetry is a big part of that. When your vanity mirror is centred and well-proportioned, it can make your bathroom look bigger, brighter, and instantly more inviting. Even in smaller spaces, getting the balance spot on can turn a plain room into something special.
Creating Visual Balance
In most cases, you’ll want to centre your mirror directly above your basin for the cleanest look and best functionality. In some layouts, it also makes sense to centre the mirror to the vanity or even the whole wall, especially if your basin is offset or your vanity runs wall-to-wall.
I’ve met many customers dealing with off-centre plumbing, awkward windows, or tricky light fixtures. The best trick? Choose a mirror size that lets you visually “cheat” things back into alignment—sometimes that’s a slightly wider mirror, sometimes a pair of mirrors, or occasionally a custom solution.
Matching Mirror Style to Vanity and Room Design
Your choice of vanity and mirror should work hand in hand with your bathroom decor. Modern bathrooms look great with minimalist frameless mirrors or an LED vanity mirror for that designer edge. Traditional or Hamptons-style rooms pair beautifully with a classic framed mirror or a vanity mirror cabinet with soft lines and extra storage. For those wanting a classic look with storage, our Charli Shaving Cabinets and Piper PVC Shaving Cabinets are a favourite at Ross’s—both stylish and practical for everyday use.
If you’ve chosen a vanity with mirror and lights, or a feature backlit mirror, let those elements drive the rest of your design. Just keep your lines clean and your proportions balanced so nothing feels crowded or lost on the wall.
Tips for Lighting, Sconces & Pendants
The right lighting is essential for both style and function. When using sconces or pendant lights, space them evenly on either side of your mirror for perfect symmetry and the most flattering light. If you’re using a LED vanity mirror, backlit mirror, or vanity mirror with lights, take a little extra care to mount it at a height and position that reduces glare and highlights your face evenly—trust me, you’ll thank yourself every morning.
Illuminated mirrors are especially handy for applying makeup or shaving but also act as a soft night light for family bathrooms or ensuites. Ross’s has a huge range of bathroom vanity mirrors with lighting, so there’s always something to suit your space.
TL;DR: Keep your vanity mirror centred and proportional, match the style to your vanity and overall bathroom decor, and make smart choices with lighting for the most attractive, balanced result.
Mounting and Installation Tips
Getting your vanity mirror installed safely and straight is just as important as picking the right one. I’ve seen more than crooked or wobbly mirrors, often because of skipped installation steps or the wrong fixings. The good news? All mirrors at Ross’s come with the right fixings included and are designed for easy DIY installation—even if you’re not a pro. With a bit of care and the right tools, you’ll get a sturdy, perfect result.
How to Measure and Mark Placement
Start by measuring where you want your bathroom mirror to hang. Use a tape measure and level to mark the centre line of your vanity and the ideal mirror height (refer to the earlier section for those numbers). Mark the top edge of the mirror and where the fixings will go—double-check these marks before you drill anything. You’ll need a pencil, spirit level, tape measure, a drill (with the right bit for your wall type), and a screwdriver. Taking your time here prevents headaches later.
Dealing with Wall Studs and Electrical
If your mirror or vanity mirror cabinet is on the heavier side, or you’re installing a large shaving cabinet like our Charli or Piper, try to line up your fixings with wall studs for maximum strength. If you can’t hit a stud, use wall anchors rated for the mirror’s weight. For LED and backlit mirrors, always be careful of electrical wiring—switch off the power at the breaker and check behind the wall before drilling. If unsure, get a licensed electrician to help with any electrical connections.
Special Installation Tips for Mirror Cabinets, Backlit Mirrors, and Round Mirrors
When installing a mirror cabinet, ensure it’s level and opens smoothly—sometimes it helps to dry-fit with a friend before you commit to drilling. For round led mirrors, mark the centre and check all measurements twice; round mirrors can show up crookedness much more than a rectangular one. Backlit mirrors often have a built-in template or special brackets—use what’s provided, and always follow the instructions to ensure good airflow behind the mirror.
At Ross’s, we sell products that make life easier for DIYers, so you’ll always have the right fixings and clear instructions with your purchase. And if you get stuck, our team’s always happy to talk you through the process or recommend a local installer.
TL;DR: Measure carefully, use the right fixings, and always check for studs or wiring before installing any bathroom vanity mirrors. All Ross’s mirrors are DIY-friendly, with fixings included for your peace of mind.
Lighting and Functionality Considerations
Lighting can make or break your experience with a vanity mirror. Good light turns a simple mirror into a daily essential, helping with everything from shaving to makeup—and it can totally change the mood and function of your bathroom.
Built-in Lights: LED and Backlit Mirrors
A LED vanity mirror, backlit bathroom mirror, or vanity mirror with lights offers the perfect blend of style and function. The main advantage is even, shadow-free illumination, making tasks like shaving or makeup much easier and more accurate. Built-in lights can also set a calming atmosphere for night-time or early mornings. Just remember, direct lighting placed too high or too low can create glare or shadows, so aim for eye level and centre the mirror above your vanity.
One reason so many Perth renovators love these options is the modern, seamless look they bring to a space. On the flip side, you’ll need to consider wiring, especially with backlit mirrors, so factor that in during your planning. Ross’s has one of the widest selections of LED and backlit mirrors in Perth, including the Miro LED Mirror and Arch LED Frameless Mirror—perfect for any style and size of bathroom.
Lighted Magnifying Mirrors and Magnification
If you need that extra detail for makeup, shaving, or close-up grooming, a lighted magnifying mirror is a real game-changer. A lighted mirror with magnification is usually wall-mounted or extendable, letting you bring it closer as needed. These are especially popular in family and shared bathrooms, making sure everyone gets the clear view they want. At Ross’s, the Miro LED Mirror with Magnifier is a go-to option—sleek, bright, and practical for everyday use.
Hollywood Mirrors
While we don’t stock Hollywood mirrors, you can achieve a similar effect with our wide range of vanity mirrors with lights and LED features. If you love that glamorous, illuminated look, there’s no shortage of options at Ross’s to help brighten up your space without going over the top.
TL;DR: The right lighting—whether built into your mirror or carefully placed around it—makes your vanity mirror much more functional and helps turn your bathroom into a more welcoming, stylish space.
Special Situations & Pro Tips
Every bathroom is different, and sometimes the usual rules just don’t fit your space or your family’s needs. Here are some expert tips from years of helping Ross’s Discount Home Centre customers solve those tricky bathroom layout puzzles—because a little planning goes a long way.
Tricky Layouts, Off-Centre Vanities, and Tall Ceilings
Got a bathroom with a sloped ceiling, odd window placement, or an off-centre vanity? Don’t stress—it just means you need to think outside the box. If your vanity isn’t centred on the wall, try using two mirrors, one above each basin, to restore balance. For tall ceilings, consider installing your mirror a little higher, or using a taller mirror for better proportions. Angled mirrors or mirrored cabinets can help bounce light around awkward spaces, and are a smart choice for maximising both function and style in a challenging bathroom layout.
Family Bathrooms & Accessibility
In family bathrooms, it’s all about making sure everyone can use the mirror comfortably. For homes with kids or older family members, install the vanity mirror at a height that works for everyone, or go for a larger mirror to cover a broader range. Accessible mirror placement might mean mounting the mirror lower, tilting it slightly, or choosing a model that’s easy to clean and safe to use. Safety comes first—make sure your installation is sturdy, especially in busy family spaces.
Renters and Temporary Solutions
If you’re renting or just not ready to commit to drilling holes in the wall, don’t worry. Adhesive strips, suction hooks, or over-the-door mirrors are all great temporary mirror placement options. These solutions work well for rental bathrooms, student flats, or anywhere you want to avoid permanent changes. Just double-check the weight rating and make sure your mirror is secure before use.
TL;DR: No matter how tricky your bathroom layout, there’s always a way to get your vanity mirror set up just right. Measure carefully, think creatively, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice—at Ross’s, we’ve seen (and solved) it all.
Conclusion
Getting your vanity mirror placement right isn’t just about following rules—it’s about creating a bathroom that’s practical, comfortable, and looks fantastic every day. With the right height, spacing, and style, your mirror can transform the whole space, making morning routines easier and adding a designer touch without a major renovation.
If you’re still unsure or want to see your options up close, visit Ross’s Discount Home Centre or browse our range online. We’re always here to offer honest advice, help you choose the perfect mirror for your vanity, and make sure your next bathroom project is a breeze. Happy renovating!
