The bathroom is one of the most-used spaces in any home. That’s why it’s essential to prioritise it when planning a house upgrade.
However, a major renovation might be too much of a stretch, especially if you’re on a budget but want to give your bathroom a makeover.
The good news is that there are more affordable (and surprisingly simple) ways to upgrade a space without breaking your bank. One such way is simply upgrading your home’s lighting—or, in this particular case, upgrading your bathroom lights.
One small change or addition in your bathroom’s lighting can significantly impact the space’s look and feel.
The idea behind this is nothing new, as more modern interiors start to embrace small, high-impact upgrades. One such upgrade to your bathroom is lighted mirrors.
Join us in this post, as we unravel why stylish bathroom mirrors with lights are the best upgrades you can do to your bathrooms.
What Are Lighted Bathroom Mirrors?
Bathroom mirrors with lights, otherwise called lighted bathroom mirrors or LED mirrors, combine reflective glass with high-quality lighting to take the traditional mirror’s role in the bathroom to the next level: becoming a statement of style and function.
Lighted bathroom mirrors enhance the mirror’s function by providing even, shadow-free lighting that’s perfect for grooming, applying makeup, or doing an outfit check before heading out.
They come in several styles:
- Backlit or edge-lit mirrors: Give off a “floating” ambient glow.
- Dimmable mirrors: Adjustable brightness to suit your needs.
- Smart mirrors: Add features like touch controls, Bluetooth speakers, and anti-fog settings.
No matter which type you get for your bathroom, they’re sure to give you that “upgrade” you’ve been longing for.
The Benefits of Lighted Bathroom Mirrors
Enhanced Lighting for Daily Bathroom Routines
Tasks that require close attention, like grooming and applying makeup, need good lighting for better visibility. The even illumination given by lighted mirrors eliminates harsh shadows, making it optimal for tasks like applying skincare and shaving.
Modern Aesthetic Appeal
Adds a modern and stylish touch to any bathroom, offering luxury without a complete remodel.
Lighted mirrors can also affect the mood and atmosphere of the bathroom through colour-changing functions: bright and crisp for grooming and focused tasks, and warm and relaxing for a spa-like experience.
Energy Efficiency
Most lighted mirrors use LED technology, which consumes significantly less energy than their traditional counterparts. This makes your bathroom an eco-friendly zone in your house. Less energy used also means lower energy bills, which is a big help, especially when you’re on a tight budget for house “upgrades”.
Long-Lasting
LED lights can last up to 30,000 hours or even 50,000 hours. One main contributing factor is that LEDs don’t heat up, so heat damage is off the question.
Makes Small Bathrooms Feel Bigger
Through their reflections, bathroom mirrors can make any bathroom seem larger and more spacious by tricking the brain into registering a false sense of space and creating an illusion of depth.
Touch Sensors
Modern lighted bathroom mirrors offer easy on/off control and a minimalistic finish. The mirror’s surface allows for access to all of the light’s different operations, including dimming, temperature changing, and smart functions.
Additional Features
Some lighted bathroom mirrors offer features like anti-fog technology, Bluetooth connection, and dimmable light settings. Some even have storage shelves and sockets.
Why Lighted Mirrors are Ideal for Renters and DIY Enthusiasts
You don’t need to own your home to enjoy a designer-level bathroom. Many bathroom mirrors with lights are easy to install with just a few basic tools without the help of a professional. Most would also come with installation guidelines for fast and easy installation.
But the best reason lighted mirrors are renter-friendly is that they can be removed without leaving lasting damage. No drywall tearing or expensive plumbing work—just instant transformation.
For DIYers, it’s a satisfying and affordable bathroom upgrade that delivers maximum impact to the space.
How to Choose the Right Lighted Bathroom Mirror
Now that you know the hype behind bathroom mirrors with lights, I know you’re itching to get your hands on one. And that’s great! But when you go shopping for a lighted bathroom mirror, there are a few factors you need to consider:
Size and Shape
Not all bathroom mirrors with lights are made the same. The available space in your bathroom will determine the size and shape of the mirror you’ll get, and personal preference will also be a factor. So, measure your wall and sink area properly to ensure a good fit.
Design and Style
Bathroom mirrors come in different styles. To ensure that the mirror blends in seamlessly, consider how it will fit your desired bathroom theme and decor. You should be able to find a mirror that suits your style.
Lighting Options
When possible, it’s best to choose adjustable lighting that allows you to switch between cool, natural, or warm colours depending on the mood you want to set. Cool tones are for better visibility, while warm tones are for relaxation—a spa-like experience.
Energy Efficiency
Bathroom mirror lights use either LED, incandescent, or fluorescent lighting. It is always advisable to ditch the traditional lights and embrace the more efficient LED ones. LEDs use less energy to produce light and last significantly longer than traditional lights.
Installation requirements:
Check whether the mirror needs to be hardwired or if it plugs in. This is important to note, especially if you’re renting and/or you’re going to DIY the installation.
Extra Features
Decide whether features like anti-fog, Bluetooth connectivity, or smart touch controls are essential for you. Different models and manufacturers will have different features installed in their lighted bathroom mirrors, so choose carefully.
Installation Tips
Installing bathroom mirrors with lights can be straightforward, especially if they come with detailed instructions on how to mount them successfully. Here are some tips for installing:
- Plan your layout: Is the mirror location close to a power source? Will the mirror perfectly fit above the sink? Will there be enough space on all sides when you install it? Have a sound layout before you install. Or better yet, before you purchase the mirror.
- Safety first – Turn off the power in the bathroom before starting any electrical work on the mirror.
- Use a level – You’ll be surprised how easy it is to misalign a mirror during installation. Consider this a favour to yourself.
- Consider additional lighting – Lighted bathroom mirrors are great by themselves, but depending on your bathroom’s lighting layout, you might need to augment them with side or top lights for a more pronounced impact.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for affordable yet impactful upgrades for your bathroom, you might first want to consider improving your lights. A bathroom mirror with LED light is a brilliant choice—literally and figuratively. It’s functional, practical, and an efficient design choice.
So when you’re thinking of remodelling your bathroom, maybe hold off on the complete renovation ideas. You might just need to add a single light fixture to achieve that “refreshed look” you’re aiming for.