Illuminated Mirror: Types Of Illumination, Mirror Selection, Installation Method

2023 Author: Philip Bishop | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-08-25 07:54

• What should be a bathroom mirror
• Types of mirror lighting
• What kind of backlighting to give preference to?
• Directionality of lighting and its color
• Variety of mirrors
• Illuminated mirror selection criteria
• DIY Tips

Among the plumbing fixtures and stylish finishes in the bathroom, the mirror is an important detail. This item is multifunctional, practical, and if matched to the design of the bathroom, it also performs a decorative function. Bathroom mirrors with built-in lighting have gained wide popularity. Such models do not require the use of additional lighting devices, therefore, there is no need to think about where to hang the lamp.

What should be a bathroom mirror

Many factors depend on how the bathroom mirror is correctly selected. For example, women use this item for styling their hair or applying makeup in the morning. Men also perform many hygiene procedures using a mirror.

The main nuance in choosing an illuminated mirror is the correct positioning of the lighting lamps. The quality of reflection, shadow and color will depend on the place of its localization. In addition, part of the bathroom interior will be reflected in the mirror, which also plays an important role. The included lighting determines the appearance of the mirror and its compatibility with the design of the room.

The main task of light bulbs in the backlight is the correct transfer of all the details of the reflection: a person should see himself without eye strain. The highlight should not blur or, on the contrary, make the reflection too sharp. As the bulbs heat up, high-quality backlighting can easily eliminate the condensation that appears when the temperature changes.

According to statistics, a person spends one sixth of his life in the bathroom: relaxing after a hard day, putting himself in order in the morning; therefore, it will be advisable to make this pastime the most comfortable.

Types of mirror lighting

Among the wide variety of mirror products, they are divided according to one principle, according to the type of illumination. Models are:

• with external lighting;
• with internal lighting;
• with decorative lighting.

The mirrors with external lighting or external lighting are the most popular today. This success among consumers is due to the possibility of using external lighting. Mirrors are equipped with connectors for inserting various spots, lamps and sconces, or they can have mounts for the location of lighting fixtures in the immediate vicinity of the mirror. This type of backlighting allows you to highlight not only the mirror itself, but also other objects placed nearby: a cabinet, shelves.

The option of external mirror illumination is best for shaving, applying makeup, if the lamps are located on three sides. The optimal directional lighting will be the presence of spotlights on the sides of the product, and one long in the center. Do not forget about the color scheme of the backlighting: such a model will not be able to fulfill its main purpose.

The next type of backlighting is internal, which is provided using LED strips or blocks. Such bulbs are usually placed under frosted glass so that the light does not hurt the eyes. The advantage of this backlight is the detail of the reflection. In addition, this version of the mirror product will look spectacular in the bathroom.

The last type of lighting is decorative, which is designed to fulfill only the function of complementing the style of bathroom design. With the help of such lighting, it is unlikely to achieve high-quality lighting, but you can add a touch of romance to the bathroom. The LEDs are located here along the entire perimeter of the mirror rim. They can be of different colors. It is important that this backlight can be turned off at any time to avoid distortion of the reflection.

What kind of backlighting to give preference to?

When choosing a product with lighting for the bathroom, it will not be superfluous to pay attention to the type of lamps used in the model. Today, manufacturers equip mirrors with the following types of bulbs:

• halogen lamps;
• neon and gas-discharge light sources;
• LEDs.

Halogen bulbs work similarly to conventional incandescent bulbs, but the interior of the bulb is filled with gas. Such devices are durable and efficient, while consuming a reduced amount of electricity. Halogen bulbs are great for damp rooms.

Discharge and neon lamps have a high luminous efficiency. There are also fluorescent lamps that have more diffused light, but they need a special circuit to prevent flicker, which is harmful to the eyes.

The most popular type of mirror lamp is LED. This kind of lighting is relatively new and has been successful because of its brightest glow and the lowest electricity consumption. It is durable and effective, and also has excellent aesthetic properties. Having spent money on such a backlight once, you can forget about possible malfunctions in the operation of mirror lighting forever.

Directionality of lighting and its color

Each mirror reflects in its own way, this fact must be taken into account when choosing a product. It does not always work out that the mirror reflects what was intended. This also applies to the illuminated mirror, which can distort the image.

Before choosing, it is very important to decide on the purpose of the future product: whether it is necessary for hygienic self-care procedures or to emphasize the general style of the room. If the mirror performs only a decorative function, then it may be small, but it will focus on the lighting.

Do not forget about the direction of the light: for daily procedures, lamps looking at the center are suitable. If the goal is simply to highlight some elements of the product, then you can purchase a mirror with spot lighting.

Another important point when choosing is the color of the lighting fixtures. If you do not talk about multi-colored bulbs, which are intended only for decoration, then basically the light sources will be divided into:

• warm light lamps;
• cold light lamps.

The first type - warm, will create a feeling of coziness and comfort, but for many it may seem dull. On the other hand, cold light bulbs are sharp, so the reflection can be too detailed.

The best option would be to use dimmers in the selected model. Thanks to them, you can easily bring the backlight to the desired lighting temperature.

Variety of mirrors

As an additional mirror product, you can also purchase a cosmetic mirror. For example, if the main mirror will perform a decorative function with colored lighting, then a shaving and makeup mirror will come in handy. Such models are often hung near the main mirror, they have a retractable leg, which allows you to position the mirror at the required distance.

Cosmetic mirrors can also be produced with built-in lighting, but here it is worth considering whether such an addition is necessary. According to the owners' reviews, we can conclude that the main illumination of the mirror is quite enough. Although, if you still want to add a little light to the reflection, it is better to use LED strips.

In addition, models of heated mirrors come into use, which is very convenient. When taking a shower or bath, condensation often forms in the room due to the temperature difference. Moisture settles everywhere: on the floor, ceiling, walls and mirror. The heated model will save the hostess from constantly wiping the surface of the mirror from water drops. A thin layer of heating elements will help maintain the required temperature so that condensation does not fall on the mirror. This feature significantly extends the life of the mirrors.

Illuminated mirror selection criteria

In order for the selected model of the mirror to perform the assigned functions, the choice of product must be carefully considered. You should not choose the first model you like, just because it looks outwardly pretty. The product cover does not always contain high-quality filling. Before visiting the store, it is better to familiarize yourself with the main selection criteria:

1. Mirror size. It is necessary to decide in advance: for what purpose the mirror is purchased. Today, the mirror market offers for sale models with a length of 120 cm, designed for viewing reflections up to the knees; 60 cm - for the opportunity to see yourself up to the waist and 40 cm - products where the face and chest will be visible. If we consider the models from the point of view of practicality, then the 120 cm option wins, however, it is unlikely that you will need to see your reflection in the bathroom every day in almost full height. Therefore, the best option would be models with backlighting 60 and 40 cm long. The latter, by the way, will allow you to take a closer look at the details of the face.
2. Additional accessories. This criterion depends only on the personal preference of the owner. Today you can find mirrors consisting of one sheet, as well as models with cabinets and shelves equipped with lighting. The latter option is more practical because of the ability to fit the necessary bathroom accessories, although sometimes it looks bulky. A model consisting of a solid mirror sheet is outwardly more attractive, however, you will have to think about where to place toothbrushes and other items.
3. Mirror material. Pay attention to items coated with silver or aluminum. Such models have an appropriate cost, but they are durable. Due to the constant change in temperature, such a coating will not corrode.
4. Frame and mount. The frame in which the mirror is fixed must be moisture resistant, therefore, made of either plastic or stainless steel. The plastic in the product can be transparent, and the illumination located under it will additionally illuminate the walls, creating a beautiful effect.

The frame under the weight of the mirror can withstand heavy loads and must be fixed firmly. Pay attention to the fasteners included in the kit. If they are not very reliable, it is best to replace them immediately.

1. Design and style. Choose an illuminated mirror that matches your bathroom style. It also depends on the shape of the product. For example, round mirrors are more suitable for classic interiors, while square and rectangular products fit perfectly into modern interiors.
2. Lamp type. The article has already examined the types of lamps used in the illumination of mirrors, concluding that it is worth noting that the use of LED backlighting would be the best option.
3. Backlight switch. It is an important detail when choosing a product. Convenience and quick access to light depends on the type of switch. Today, illuminated mirrors are equipped with switches such as a button, sensor or remote control. The first option is the most common, although it is starting to become obsolete. Touch and motion sensors are the most popular today, they easily help turn on the backlight in one movement. Control panels usually come complete with products equipped with different glow.

DIY Tips

Self-installation and connection of the mirror is not difficult if the house has the necessary tools: a drill for making holes, a screwdriver, an indicator screwdriver, an insulation stripper, pliers or wire cutters.

The installation process itself consists of stages in a certain sequence:

• Using a pencil, the place where the mirror is attached to the wall is marked, the points of the holes are also marked;
• Holes are made in the wall using a drill with an appropriate drill, and self-tapping screws are also screwed in;
• The mirror is hung on the mounts, checking the evenness of the installation using a building level;
• The backlight wires are connected to the mains and ground;
• Checking the backlighting is the final step.

If there are additional shelves to the mirror, they are mounted last.

Reasonable approach to the choice and installation of illuminated mirrors will delight you with the result and practicality, which you can feel every day by putting yourself in order in the morning and enjoying the relaxation in the evening.

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