What Size Mirror For 36 Inch Vanity? (A Quick Guide)

Choosing the right mirror size for your 36 inch vanity can feel quite confusing. Not sure what type of mirror you should go for, square, round, big or small? I understand how much of a struggle it can be to select the right mirror for your bathroom. 

This might seem like a small task but it can leave a huge impact in your bathroom. It can easily impact both the aesthetics and functionality of your bathroom, so make sure to consider a few things in mind when you are selecting a mirror for it. Apart from size, shape and style of mirror also matters, and the lighting fixtures that can go with it, to further enhance the look. 

A carefully chosen mirror size not only compliments the vanity space but also creates an illusion of more light, making your bathroom appear spacious and visually pleasing. Plus let’s not forget the main purpose of a mirror is to help us with our daily tasks, whether it’s getting ready in the morning or preparing for sleep. 

In this post, we are going to explore what size mirror you should choose for a 36 inch vanity, cover the standard sizes, and also what factors to consider when choosing the mirror size. And we are sure by the end of this post, you will be equipped with all the information you need to choose the right mirror size that will fit your vanity and your aesthetic style. So without any further delay, let’s begin!

Standard size for the bathroom mirror

When it comes to the standard size for the bathroom, these are some standard sizes that most homeowners prefer. You can use the thumb rule to get the right size of the mirror, and that is, a mirror having width that is narrower than the vanity, ideally 4 to 6 inches. This will help you create a balanced look in your bathroom. According to standard rules, leave some gap around the mirror and vanity.

To answer, “what size mirror for 36 inch vanity”, you should go for a mirror that is 32 to 36 inches wide and the height should be 22 to 24 inches. This sizing allows 1 to 2 inches space on either side, that helps in achieving that visually balanced look. However, this is just the standard size for your 36 inch vanity, the size can vary depending on the bathroom style, aesthetic preferences, and how much space you have. 

To ensure your bathroom has a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality, here’s a table of recommended mirror widths based on the common vanity sizes:

This is the pattern that you have to maintain when you are looking for the mirror. You can go for a mirror that has the same width as the vanity or just go for a mirror that is a few inches smaller than the vanity width. This will help in creating a balanced, proportional look in your bathroom space. 

How to determine the right mirror size for a 36 inch vanity?

Let’s get into specifics of selecting the right mirror size for your 36 inch vanity. Whether you are upgrading your bathroom or creating one, the height and width of the vanity and the mirror you are going to buy. This way you will be able to choose the perfect mirror size for your 36 inch vanity.

Determine the Width

Remember the thumb rule is to keep the mirror width 2 to 4 inches smaller than the vanity width. With that in mind, the first thing you have to do is measure the width of your vanity. Ideally, for your 36 inch vanity, the bathroom mirror should be wider than the sink but not wider than the vanity. So when you are looking for the mirror, either choose a mirror that is slightly wider than the vanity’s sink or have the same width as the vanity. 

The standard rule is to at least have 1 to 2 inches gap on both sides of the vanity but in case you want a large mirror, make sure it does not exceed the width of the vanity. Furthermore, mirrors these days come in various styles and shapes, so be sure to consider that part when you are choosing the mirror. Also remember to measure the available space in your bathroom that way you can make sure the mirror fits perfectly into the space without making it too crowded. 

Determine the height

To achieve that perfect balanced look, be sure to keep the height of the mirror in mind. The height of the mirror is as important as its width. Although there isn’t any rule that says the mirror should be at this certain height, to help you get the correct mirror, we need to consider this part too. To get the height of your mirror, there are a few things that you should consider like the height of your ceiling, wall fixtures, vanity height, and faucet height. 

Some interior designers recommend that the mirrors should be at least ⅔ the height of your vanity. So for your 36 inch vanity, make sure the mirror is tall enough to show your torso and at least 6 inches extra above your head. Let’s not forget the ceiling, the mirror top should be about 4 to 5 inches away from the ceiling. Also make sure the mirror is at least 4 to 10 inches above the vanity countertop. This way you can create sufficient clearance between the ceiling and around the mirror, to create a spacious and balanced look. So when you are looking for a mirror for your 36 inch vanity, make sure to take its height in consideration too. 

Factors you should consider to get the right size mirror for 36 inch vanity

When getting the mirror for your 36 inch vanity, there are other things that you should keep in mind. This can help you get the perfect mirror size without compromising on the overall bathroom’s aesthetics and functionality. Let’s begin with the factors that you should consider to get the right mirror size for your vanity:

Vanity Size

First thing you should do is measure the vanity size and take note of them. The mirror size depends on the width and height of your vanity, plus the available space around it. As we have discussed before, the bathroom mirror size should not be wider than the vanity, either it should be a few inches less or match the same width as your vanity. This way the mirror doesn’t overwhelm the space and also make it more visually appealing. 

For instance, if your vanity is 36 inches wide, then go for a mirror that is 26 to 28 inches in width. The mirror will look perfect on top of the vanity, like it was custom-made for it. 

Placement 

The placement also matters when you are choosing the mirror size for your 36 inch vanity. You have to consider a few factors like the ceiling height, wall fixtures, faucets, lighting, etc. according to the standard thumb rule, the placement of the mirror should be at least 4 to 10 inches above from the countertop and should have 4 to 5 inches of clearance between the ceiling and the mirror top, to have that perfect balanced look. 

Now, what’s the purpose of a mirror? The main reason for installing mirrors is to groom ourselves so it’s important to make sure the family members are able to see their reflection clearly without any problem. 

Ceiling height

The height of your bathroom ceiling also plays an important role in determining the correct mirror size. If you have tall ceilings then go for a mirror with extra height and if you have low ceilings then go for shorter mirrors to avoid a cramped look. 

This gives your bathroom a spacious and visually appealing look without making it too crowded. Choosing the mirror depending on the ceiling height can further enhance the look of your bathroom.

Available wall space

Check the available wall space you have to make sure the mirror fits comfortably without affecting other wall fixtures. A 36 inch vanity is mostly used in medium to large size bathrooms, perfect for providing sufficient storage space. See how much wall space you have available around your vanity, if there’s not enough space then a large mirror might not be the best idea. Depending on the available space you have, you can choose a mirror that can make your bathroom feel more expansive and spacious.

Lighting fixtures

Another factor that you have to keep in mind is the lighting fixtures in your bathroom. A bathroom is incomplete without beautiful lighting fixtures. The size of the mirror can vary depending on the type of lighting fixture you have in your bathroom. So when you are looking for the mirror, consider the lighting fixtures on your wall. If you have sconces on either side, choose a narrower mirror but if there’s a lighting fixture above the mirror then make sure there’s enough space between the light and mirror edge.

Types of mirrors you can choose for 36 inch vanity

These days bathroom mirrors come in various shapes and styles, to meet your aesthetic needs while still serving their primary purpose. Depending on what type of look you want in your bathroom, is it minimalist, modern, classic, or vintage. 

In most standard bathrooms, people prefer rectangular or round mirrors, but nowadays, there are some mirrors that have decorative features like lights, borders, or just stay frameless, to elevate the look of your space. 

To choose the right mirror, it’s also important to understand what type of aesthetic look you want in your space. If you have modern space, then sleek and sophisticated mirrors will do great, and if you have a classic bathroom, then mirrors with borders will be perfect for it. 

No matter the mirror style or shape you choose, the thumb rule will be the same, make sure it’s no wider than the sink, if it is then no more than vanity’s width. Make sure there’s enough space around the mirror and maintain appropriate distance from the wall fixtures and vanity’s countertop. If you are unsure then you have a professional take a look at your bathroom and have them suggest what would be the right mirror choice.

What size mirror for 36 inch vanity with lights?

If your vanity has built-in lights or have wall mounted sconces, choose a mirror that compliments your vanity without being too loud. For example, if your vanity has lights on either side then the mirror should at least cover 60 to 70% of the vanity’s width, that means the mirror should be tall enough to show your torso and show at least 2 inch extra above the head. That way you can have enough space for lights and also fit the mirror comfortably.

But if you have double vanity then you have two options, either choose two mirrors or one large mirror and make sure it doesn’t exceed the width of the vanity. 

What size round mirror for 36 inch vanity?

Apply the same rule that you use square or rectangular mirror. The mirror should not be wider than the sink or vanity. You have to see if the mirror has a decorative frame or without a frame, to get a clear idea. Many interior designers suggest a round mirror with a diameter of 28 to 34 inches, but remember to consider the lighting fixtures and placement of the vanity. 

How wide should vanity light be over 36 inch vanity?

Follow the general rule that many people and interior designers follow, when looking for a vanity light, choose one that is about 75% of your vanity or mirror width. 

Over your 36 inch vanity, a 27 inch light would be an ideal choice. This lighting size would be able to enhance the look of your bathroom and the functionality of it. Providing you with enough illumination to groom yourself and also create visual balance in your bathroom. You can choose the type of light depending on your bathroom’s aesthetic. 

Conclusion

Choosing the right mirror size for your 36 inch vanity is more than just a simple task, it’s about creating a stunning balance between the aesthetics and functionality. With the right guidance and strategy, it can become an enjoyable and rewarding process. 

Now to answer your question “what size mirror for 36 inch vanity?”, the ideal mirror size would be 32 to 36 inches. And keep the thumb rule in mind which is the mirror width should be less than the vanity’s width or the same as the vanity width. With the right mirror size, you can make your bathroom look more spacious, bright, and visually pleasing.

So when you are selecting a mirror, remember these simple guidelines we discuss in this post, the width should be less or the same as a vanity countertop, and the height of the mirror is just as important as its width. 

You also have to consider other factors like available wall space, ceiling height, lighting fixtures, and the placement of the mirror, to help you fit the mirror beautifully in your bathroom overall design.

Whether you are going to a curved mirror or a rectangular one, your aim should not be just fitting the mirror into the bathroom’s aesthetic but also make sure it’s serving its purpose too. Thoughtful choices can make your bathroom feel brighter, spacious, and visually appealing.

So when you are deciding what size mirror for 36 inch vanity, keep these factors and tips in mind, that way you will have a bathroom that is both functional and stylish.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)