Framed vs Frameless Bathroom Mirror: Which One is Better?

Let’s be honest: mirrors are more than just reflective surfaces we use to check our hair in the morning (or let’s face it, late at night, wondering why we’re still awake). In bathrooms, they’re visual anchors. Style statements. Sometimes even the thing that makes us go, "Ooh, nice!" when we walk into the room. But here’s the big question: framed or frameless? Which kind of mirror belongs in your bathroom?

We’ve spent years swimming in taps, tiles, tubs, and yes—tons of mirrors. And while there’s no absolute winner (sorry if you were hoping for a dramatic final answer), we do have plenty of thoughts. Let’s break it all down.

What Is The Real Difference Between Framed And Frameless Mirrors?

Seems obvious, right? One has a frame. The other doesn’t. But there's a bit more nuance.

Framed mirrors come with, well, frames. These can be anything from chunky wood borders to sleek metallic finishes. Frames can make a mirror feel like a piece of furniture, adding warmth, detail, or even drama to your wall.

Frameless mirrors, on the other hand, are all about simplicity. No border. Just mirror. They tend to have a cleaner, more modern look. Think spa hotels or minimalist Pinterest boards—that's the vibe.

But beyond aesthetics, each style has its own quirks in installation, maintenance, and cost. Oh yes, it’s not just about looks.

Which One Works Best For Smaller Bathrooms?

If you’re short on space (and who isn’t these days?), frameless mirrors might be your new best friend.

They reflect more light, have a slimmer profile, and can make the room feel bigger—kind of like a visual sleight of hand. Without a chunky frame hogging space, the mirror blends seamlessly into the wall, giving a more open feel. Especially when paired with LED lighting (which can seriously add a glow to your bathroom).

Framed mirrors can still work, of course, but they do have a presence. That might be exactly what you want—or it might just feel like an extra bit of bulk you didn’t ask for.

What About Style – Which One Looks Better?

Ah, the eternal style debate.

Framed mirrors come in a wide range of styles, from rustic farmhouse to Art Deco chic. They can introduce texture, colour, and shape into an otherwise plain space. They’re great for anchoring a bathroom that already leans into a particular design aesthetic.

Frameless mirrors, on the other hand, are like the white T-shirt of bathroom design. Timeless. Versatile. Always looks fresh. If your bathroom is ultra-modern or you're trying to keep things light and airy, frameless is a safe (and often stunning) bet.

Truthfully? It depends on what story you want your bathroom to tell.

Is One Easier To Clean Than The Other?

Quick answer? Frameless.

Without a frame, there are fewer nooks and crannies for dust or moisture to collect. That means less scrubbing and fewer chances for mould or discolouration.

Framed mirrors, particularly wooden or ornate ones, may require more delicate cleaning. Water splashes and steam can be a bit of a menace over time. Not a dealbreaker, but something to consider if you like things low-maintenance.

Which Option Is More Durable Over Time?

This one’s a little trickier.

Framed mirrors can offer added protection around the edges, especially if the frame is high-quality. They might be a better option in a high-traffic family bathroom, where accidental bumps are more likely.

Frameless mirrors, while sleek, do have exposed edges. If they’re not made from toughened glass or if they’re poorly installed, chipping is a possibility. That said, with proper mounting and a bit of care, they can last just as long.

We’d say: it’s not so much about the style here, but the build quality and how it’s fitted.

Are Frameless Mirrors More Expensive Than Framed Ones?

Not necessarily.

You might assume that the sleek, minimalist design of a frameless mirror would drive up the price. Sometimes it does. But framed mirrors can get pricey too, especially when you're going for custom designs or premium materials.

In general, the price differences often come down to size, brand, and extras (like built-in lights, defoggers, or Bluetooth speakers).

Bottom line: set your budget first, then browse both options. You might be surprised where you land.

How Do You Choose The Right One For Your Bathroom?

Here's our two cents (well, more like twenty):

• If you're aiming for a clean, modern look and want to make a small bathroom feel bigger, go frameless.
• If your bathroom needs a bit more character or you're playing into a specific design theme, framed could be perfect.
• Love both? You can absolutely mix and match in different bathrooms. One doesn't cancel out the other.

Oh, and if you need help narrowing things down, our guide to the types of bathroom mirror can help.

Final Thoughts

So, framed vs frameless? It’s not about which is objectively "better" – it’s about what fits your bathroom, your taste, and how you use the space.

Do you want a striking design statement? Something low-maintenance? A touch of hotel luxury? There's no wrong choice here, just the one that feels right when you step in and go, ahh, yes.

Just remember: mirrors reflect your style—quite literally. So pick the one that feels most like you (or rather, your bathroom’s best self).