Bathroom mirrors is a crucial decorative element that shouldn't be overlooked. Its effect can be as refreshing as a bathroom remodel.

Some bathrooms are designed with a bathroom mirror resting directly onto the backsplash. Unlike a framed mirror, it is a large mirror that does not have a frame or any hardware to support it and instead of wall mounted, it gets mounted directly onto the backsplash itself. This might seem like an unusual move but sometimes this really works well: when you just don't want anything between your beautiful, clean bathroom walls and your shiny frameless mirrors.

Do I need a framed mirror?

Having mirrors resting directly on the wall, mirror glass has a very different look than framed mirrors do; it just kind of melts into the general style of everything else. This is a real treat if you're trying to create a sleek and modern atmosphere right off the bat.

That said, a bathroom mirror might still be inside of an exquisite frame without looking like there's too much going on if the frame matches your whole bathroom.

How much space should be left between my bathroom mirror and the backsplash?

As a general rule of proper installation, the minimal gap between your mirror and the backsplash should be no less than eight inches of clearance.

This really does depend on your tastes but, as a general rule, it is recommended to have at least eight inches of wall space between the bathroom vanity top and the bottom of the mirror, and any part of your bathroom vanity that might be in front or behind it. This is the minimum distance to ensure there's no interference or awkwardness when it comes time for cleaning or looking yourself in the eye.

Additionally, before determining where to hang the mirror on your walls, take into consideration what would be the right mirror for your bathroom and how close you want to actually be with your bathroom mirror. Consider ventilation as well, and where you will be most comfortable.

Are you looking for a grandiose, huge mirror that takes up the whole wall? Is it better to have something smaller, more cozy vanity mirror that just fit for one person? Do you want a round mirror or an oval mirror, multiple mirrors?

What shape and size mirror do I need?

You should match your mirror with the style, bathroom layout and other items in the bathroom and ensure that it is fully functional to all the users in your home. Is your bathroom a utilitarian bathroom or more of a luxe bathroom? Is it the master bath or the powder room? Features like the wall coverings, recessed lights, the window frame, the upper cabinets, or maybe you have a large vanity or even double vanity are all critical when it comes to matching mirror, and it is common to consider more than one mirror in your bathroom. The curve of round mirrors can be matched with the curve of your sink while a bevelled mirror would go well with a medicine cabinet. Rectangular mirrors allow bigger area to be reflected, and a tall mirror or a full-length mirror allows you to see yourself from head to toe and also it makes the room look bigger, however it would most likely mean you will have little wall space. Moreover, materials like marble mosaic or split face travertine are also to be considered. For example, you would want to use the same granite as the chair rail or pencil rail for your mirror with large crown moulding over a granite countertop.

Should mirrors be centred over a bathroom sink?

This might seem like something of a no-brainer but this rule exists because mirrors are meant to be viewed from an angle (like when you're in front of the sink area). If there is too much wall visible between the edge of your bathroom vanities and where the mirror will be hung then it might look funny or awkward.

The best thing you can do is measure from one edge of your bathroom countertop (where people would usually place their elbows) across to the other edge, and try to determine whether or not eight inches is enough space for whatever kind of decor you're dealing with on either side of the mirror, including light fixtures and anything else.

How high should the bathroom backsplash go?

This is another rule that might seem obvious but there are people out there who get the backsplash wrong all the time. The bottom edge of your mirror should generally be at least four inches above the top edge of your completed vanities or faucets.

Again, this is a minimum guideline to help you avoid any truly awkward situations that could arise from having a mirror that's too low that it catches all the water and cleaning agents, or has exposed plumbing or hardware on its underside.

It might even look strange if your mirror hangs right over your sink, so it's good to invest in some mounting hardware to make sure everything goes well with things that are already installed and put together.

It is okay to have bathroom mirrors touching the backsplash when the overall look and feel and the practical aspect are taken into account. And you can always consult professionals when it comes to making a custom frame and wall mounts for safety and the best result on your next remodel project. The Australian Government's Your Home website has some handy tips on remodelling.