We know it's been a long-overdue update but earlier this year, we tackled our primary bathroom. Although it wasn't a full-blown reno (no walls were demolished, no elaborate tile work where there wasn't tile before), I honestly believe that small, considered adjustments can pack just as big of a punch. Take our rectangular bathroom mirror, for example.
I know, I know it sound easy. But hear me: The choice of a well-placed rectangular one to replace a boring old mirror has further changed the look and feel of our bathroom. It made the room feel more polished, more open and just … better. Since then, I've received a ton of questions about how to pick the perfect mirror—what size is best, framed versus frameless, how to style around it—so I thought I'd devote a post to breaking it all down.
Why the A Rectangular Bathroom Mirror Simply Works
The clean, structured shape of a rectangular mirror adds an immediate element of sophistication to any bathroom. Rectangular mirrors, unlike round or oval, which are a little more decorative, though they can be gorgeous, add balance and structure to the space. They form clean lines, reflect more light and (if selected wisely) give a bathroom that larger, more purposeful appearance.
I've owned round mirrors in the past, and while they can be gorgeous, they always seemed a bit on the difficult side to style. They don't always line up with the vanity, they leave weird negative space around them, and they don't provide you as much usable mirror real estate — particularly in a shared bathroom. Occasionally, rectangular mirrors naturally follow the shape of the vanity and offer a cleaner, more tailored look.
Here's what I thought about when picking ours…
How to Choose a Rectangular Bathroom Mirror?
A good mirror should do more than just reflect — it should visually complement your space, play nice with your lighting and contribute to the overall design. A few things to know when selecting one:
- Size & Proportion – Ensure that the mirror is proportionate to your vanity. A glass rule: your mirror should be at least as wide as the sink (or sinks) below it but shouldn't travel beyond the edges of the vanity. If you have double sinks, you can do two smaller mirrors, or one large mirror that extends the length of both sinks.
- Frame or Frameless? – A framed mirror brings warmth and a more finished look, whereas a frameless mirror is smooth and sleek. We chose a thin black metal frame, which added just the right amount of contrast without being heavy. If your bathroom is especially busy texture-wise (marble or patterned tile, for instance), a frameless mirror might offset the chaos.
- Lighting Considerations – If your lighting is above the mirror, you can be more flexible about a few inches of height. But if you have sconces on either side, you'll want to ensure your mirror functions nicely with that setup. (If you're in the market for new lighting, as well, I really love wall-mounted sconces — they cast such a flattering, even light when getting ready in the morning.)
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Mounting Style – Mirrors can be wall mounted or can lean slightly (if the mirror has a built-in ledge or shelf). If you’re aiming for a modern look, there are floating mirrors that sit just off the wall with simple brackets in the frame, which provide a really nice effect.
- Reflective Quality – Not all mirrors are the same! Some mirrors reflect with a slight warp, and some with an almost too-perfect, sharp reflection (which can feel a bit mean in a bathroom context). Seek out a well-built, glass mirror with excellent balance — crisp, but not clinical.
The Rectangular Mirrors I Would Go To Bat For
I spent more time than I'd like to admit scrolling through mirrors before I found the one. Below are some that landed on my shortlist:
- A black-framed mirror—modern, timeless, and goes with everything
- A wood-framed mirror for some warmth and texture (perfect for the organic or boho style)
- A brass-framed mirror, if you're doing gold fixtures and need an element of vintage elegance
- An in-shelf mirror — perfect for small bathrooms where every bit of storage matters
- A LED backlit mirror—perfect for a clean, spa-like vibe (and also super functional for middle-of-the-night glow)
How Our Mirror Altered The Space
I'll be frank—I didn't expect one mirror swap to have such a huge effect. But once it was hung up, it instantly transformed the room to make it feel bigger, lighter and more complete. It also beautifully reflected the natural light from our window, bouncing around the room and making our small(ish) bathroom feel a little bit more open.
From a styling standpoint, it gave me a much more solid base to work off of. I put a couple of small, sculptural sconces on either side (instead of an overhead bar light), which seemed to polish the space. I also remodeled our vanity accessories — black soap dispensers, black towels stacked high and a small tray for perfumes and daily essentials. (A few small styling tweaks, but they make a world of difference.)
Styling Tips
Now that you have your mirror, it's time to style around it to maximize space. Here's a few easy ways to give that mirror the illusion that it was always meant to be part of your design:
- It with lighting — As I mentioned earlier, sconces flanking either side of the mirror provide both function and balance.
- Add natural elements — A tiny vase with a sprig of greenery or a wooden tray can soften the look of a modern mirror.
- Minimize the countertop — A messy vanity detracts from the drama of a good mirror. Limit yourself to a few selected products.
- Frame it with art — If your bathroom has the wall space, you might hang small framed prints or photographs nearby for a more cohesive vignette.
Would I Re-Purchase This Mirror?
100% yes. It's one of those seemingly trivial updates that has an enormous impact. Now, whenever I walk into our bathroom, it just feels so much more put together, more functional and honestly… more us.
I also love how versatile it is—if/when we ever do switch up the bathroom (new paint, new hardware, etc.), I know this mirror will still fit with whatever direction we take.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a no-fuss, high-impact way to add some refreshment to your bathroom, a rectangular mirror is such a good starting point. It helps create a mood for the space, helps your bathroom seem brighter and larger and acts as a functional centerpiece. And with so many styles available, you can find one that matches exactly what aesthetic you're after.
Are you a rectangular mirror fan, or do you swear by round or oval shapes? I'd be interested in your comments below! And as ever, I'm here for your questions — just ask!
FAQS
1. How do I use a rectangular bathroom mirror in a small room without making it feel too small?
Absolutely! In fact, a properly positioned rectangular mirror can help a small bathroom feel larger. The trick is picking one that is the right size—choose a mirror that is in proportion to your vanity, but not overbearing. If you're trying to make do with limited space, opt for a frameless model to help your space feel light and open. Another trick? Placing the mirror just a bit higher also makes the ceilings feel higher.
2. How can you keep a bathroom mirror streak-free, and how should you clean one?
Everyday cleaning typically only requires warm water plus a few drops of dish soap. Use a microfiber cloth and a vinegar-water solution (equal parts) for a streak-free shine. Don't spray cleaner directly on the mirror — it can work its way behind the frame and cause damage over time. Instead spray onto your cloth, then wipe. If your mirror has a metal or wood frame, use caution about excess moisture to avoid tarnishing or warping.
3. Will I be able to install a rectangular bathroom mirror myself or will I need a professional?
Depends on the size and how you mount it. If you're hanging a lightweight mirror with basic wall hooks, it's perfectly doable as a do-it-yourself project — provided you measure twice and use a level for accuracy. But if the mirror is large, heavy or needs special mounting (like a floating mirror with hidden brackets), you might want to hire a professional to make sure it's anchored safely to the wall. A quick rule of thumb: if it's heavier than 30 pounds, you might want to hire a pro, if only for safety's sake.
Related Articles
If you want to explore bathroom design and decor more, here are a few related articles to inspire your next project—click on through to read!
- 5 Reasons to Choose a Bathroom Vanity with Mirror
- The Best Color Schemes for Your 72 Vanity Bathroom
- How to Choose the Perfect LED Bathroom Vanity Light Fixtures for Your Space?
- 2025’s Hottest Bathroom Vanity Colors You’ll Want in Your Home
- Top 5 Vanity Mirror Styles That Transform Your Bathroom Aesthetic
