Bathroom Mirror vs Regular Mirror: What’s the Difference?

If you’re in the market for a new mirror, you may wonder about the difference between a bathroom mirror and a regular mirror.

The main difference between bathroom mirrors and regular mirrors is that bathroom mirrors are designed for use in damp, humid environments, while regular mirrors are not.

In this guide, I will compare and contrast bathroom mirrors and regular mirrors so that you can make an informed decision about which type of mirror is right for your needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Bathroom mirrors and regular mirrors serve different purposes.
  • Bathroom mirrors differ from regular mirrors because they often have features like fog-resistance and built-in lighting.
  • Because of their increased durability and functionality, bathroom mirrors usually cost more than regular mirrors.

What Are Their Purposes

Bathroom mirrors and regular mirrors serve DIFFERENT purposes. Bathroom mirrors are more functional, while regular mirrors are more decorative.

Bathroom Mirror Purpose

Bathroom mirrors are designed to reflect as MUCH light as possible compared to regular mirrors. This is helpful when you’re getting ready for your day or trying to apply makeup.

No matter if you have a small bathroom or a large one, you can find the perfect mirror to hang on your wall or place on your countertop.

Some bathroom mirrors even come with features like fog-resistance and built-in lighting.

Because they’re made to withstand damp, humid conditions, bathroom mirrors are usually more durable than regular mirrors.

Regular Mirror Purpose

Regular mirrors are designed to reflect as LITTLE light as possible. This is helpful when you’re trying to create a relaxing environment in your home. Decorative mirrors are also designed to reflect light in a certain way to create a particular effect.

A beveled edged mirror will add a touch of elegance to any room. A small, round mirror can be used as part of a gallery wall. Large, rectangular mirrors are perfect for over the fireplace.

Pro Tip: Be sure to consider the mirror’s purpose before making your purchase.

Size Difference

When it comes to mirrors, size does MATTER (I wish that weren’t the case when it comes to my reflection).

Bathroom Mirror Size

A bathroom mirror needs to be large enough to provide a CLEAR view of your reflection, but it also needs to be small enough to FIT comfortably in the space. As a result, bathroom mirrors are typically more extensive than regular mirrors.

bathroom mirror with wide mirror

However, there is no one-size-fits-all answer regarding bathroom vanity mirror size. These mirrors can come in various shapes and sizes, from small vanity mirrors to large floor-length ones.

A bathroom sink vanity with two sinks may need two bathroom mirrors, side-by-side. Large master bathrooms may require a single, large mirror that spans the entire wall above the double sink vanity.

Regular Mirror Size

A regular mirror can be ANY size that you want. These mirrors are often hung on the wall or placed on a shelf, so there is more flexibility when it comes to their size.

Pro Tip: Before purchasing a bathroom mirror, measure the wall space where you intend to hang it.

Lighting

You can easily differentiate a bathroom mirror from a regular mirror by its built-in lighting feature.

Bathroom Mirror Lighting

Bathroom mirrors often have LIGHTS around the mirror’s perimeter or on the back of the mirror. These lighted bathroom mirrors provide even lighting that helps you to see your reflection more clearly.

Bathroom mirrors are well-lit with either natural light or artificial lighting. This is to ensure a CLEAR reflection when you’re getting ready.

Regular Mirror Lighting

Regular mirrors, on the other hand, are not as well-lit. They can be hung on the wall or placed on a shelf, but they don’t have the same type of lighting as bathroom mirrors.

DECORATIVE MIRROR

Material

The material is the most crucial difference between a bathroom mirror and a regular mirror.

Bathroom mirrors should be made from tempered glass, which is a type of safety glass. Tempered glass is designed to shatter into small, safe pieces of broken glass if it breaks [1].

This is an important safety feature for bathroom mirrors because they are more likely to break than regular mirrors.

Laminated glass is also a common material for bathroom mirrors. This type of glass is made by sandwiching a layer of plastic between two layers of glass. Laminated glass is more durable than tempered glass and is less likely to break.

Regular mirrors can be made from any type of glass, including tempered glass. However, they don’t need to be made from tempered glass because they are not as likely to break. A vanity mirror, for example, can be made from regular glass.

Frames

Bathroom mirrors can have a frame or be frameless, while regular mirrors USUALLY don’t have a frame.

A frame can add a DECORATIVE touch to the mirror, while a frameless mirror has a more modern look.

Wood and metal frames are the most common types of frames for bathroom mirrors. It is also common to have a medicine cabinet with a new bathroom mirror attached.

large bathroom mirror

Price

The price of bathroom mirror as well as a regular mirror, DEPENDS on their size, shape, and material.

A small, frameless bathroom mirror can cost as little as $20, while a large, framed bathroom mirror can cost up to $200.

A frameless regular mirror can cost only $10, while a larger framed version of the same type of mirror could be ten times that price at $100.

Factors To Consider When Buying Mirrors

What To Look For in Bathroom Mirrors

When choosing a bathroom mirror, there are several factors to consider.

The size and shape of the mirror should be APPROPRIATE for the space, and you’ll also want to consider the style and finish of the frame.

Additionally, leave enough CLEARANCE for comfortable use if the mirror is placed above a sink.

Other considerations include the type of lighting used in the bathroom and whether you want a plain mirror or one with built-in storage.

What To Look For In Regular Mirror

When decorating your home, mirrors can be a great way to add light and depth to a room.

However, not all mirrors are created EQUAL. If you’re looking for a regular mirror that simply reflects your image, there are a few factors you’ll need to consider.

Just like bathroom mirrors, you also need to consider the SIZE of the regular mirror you’re eyeing for. It should be large enough to provide a clear reflection but not so large that it OVERPOWERS the rest of the room.

Second, consider the frame. You’ll want to choose a frame that COMPLEMENTS the style of your home.

Third, think about where you’ll be hanging the mirror. Mirrors reflect light, so you’ll want to place them in an area where they can BRIGHTEN up the room.

Finally, keep in mind that regular mirrors can be pretty HEAVY. Make sure you have a sturdy wall mount that can support the mirror’s weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Clean A Bathroom Mirror?

women removing dust but how to clean a mirror spotless

For general cleaning, use mild soap and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals on your mirror, as this can damage the surface.
When cleaning, always work in a circular motion and rinse the mirror afterward with clean water.

How Do I Prevent My Bathroom Mirror From Fogging Up?

Start by making sure the mirror is clean, then apply a small amount of shaving cream or toothpaste to the mirror’s surface. Wipe it off with a soft cloth and rinse with clean water.

Do Bathroom Mirrors Need To Be Sealed?

Bathroom mirrors do not need to be sealed, but it’s a good idea to do so if you live in a high-humidity area. Sealing your mirror will protect it from moisture and condensation, which can lead to fogging and streaking.

Can I Frame A Regular Mirror?

diy bathroom mirror frame

Yes, you can frame a regular mirror. However, it’s important to choose a frame that is the appropriate size and weight for the mirror. Otherwise, the frame could damage the mirror.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a bathroom mirror or regular mirror, ultimately, it all boils down to personal preference.

Do you want a large, decorative mirror or a smaller, more functional one? Do you want a plain mirror or one with storage? Consider your needs and budget, and then make your decision accordingly.

We hope this guide has helped you understand the differences between bathroom mirrors and regular mirrors. Now that you know more about each type, you can decide which is right for your home.

beautiful lady in front of a vanity mirror

Sources

[1] https://www.scienceabc.com/eyeopeners/tempered-laminated-car-windshield-glass-why-break-such-small-pieces.html