Best Mirrors: Types, Prices, and Simple Buying Tips

Looking for a mirror that actually works for the space you’ve got? You’re not alone. Whether it’s a bathroom splash‑back, a hallway accent, or a full‑wall statement, the right mirror can brighten a room, make it feel bigger, and even improve your daily routine. Below you’ll get the basics on the three main mirror types, what you should expect to pay, and a few no‑nonsense tips to make the purchase painless.

Types of Mirrors and Their Uses

Flat mirrors are the everyday kind you see in most homes. They give an accurate, undistorted reflection, so they’re perfect for bathrooms, dressing rooms, and any spot where you need a clear view of yourself. Most flat mirrors are made from tempered glass and a thin silver backing, which keeps them sturdy and safe.

Convex mirrors curve outward. That bulge spreads the reflected image, letting you see a wider area. They’re common in garages, hallways, and retail stores for safety or monitoring purposes. Because the image is slightly smaller, they’re not great for personal grooming but work well for spotting obstacles.

Concave mirrors curve inward and can focus light. In a home setting you’ll mostly see them as makeup mirrors that magnify a small area. The deeper the curve, the larger the magnification. They’re also used in specialty lighting and scientific kits, but for most décor projects you’ll stick with a shallow concave mirror if you want that close‑up effect.

How Much Should You Pay?

Mirror prices vary a lot based on size, frame, and glass quality. A simple, frameless 24‑inch bathroom mirror can cost as little as £15‑£30. Add a wood or metal frame and the price jumps to £40‑£80. For larger statement pieces—think 5‑foot wall mirrors with decorative frames—budget £150‑£300, depending on craftsmanship.

If you’re eyeing a high‑end designer piece, expect £500 or more. Those often use premium materials like hand‑carved frames, anti‑fog coating, or LED lighting built into the mirror. For most shoppers, the sweet spot is a mid‑range mirror with a solid frame and tempered glass: good durability without breaking the bank.

When you compare, look at the warranty. A one‑year guarantee on the glass is common; a longer frame warranty can save you hassle if the finish chips.

Here are three quick ways to keep the cost reasonable:

• Shop sales around holidays—many retailers discount bathroom fixtures by 20‑30%.
• Consider buying a plain glass pane and adding a custom frame yourself. DIY can shave $50‑$100 off the price.
• Check online marketplaces for leftover stock. You can often find high‑quality mirrors that were meant for showrooms at a fraction of the price.

Remember to measure the space twice before ordering. A mirror that’s too big can overwhelm a room, while one that’s too small looks out of place.

Finally, think about placement. Hang a mirror opposite a window to double the natural light, or use a tall narrow mirror to elongate a hallway. A well‑placed mirror does more than reflect – it shapes how you experience the room.

With these basics in mind, you’re ready to pick a mirror that fits your style, budget, and practical needs. Happy shopping!