Full Length Mirror Guide: Placement, Size, and Safety
Choose a full length mirror by height, placement, frame, and mounting method.
How tall should it be
A full length mirror should show your whole outfit from a couple of feet away. For most adults, a mirror at least 60 inches tall works. A 65- to 70-inch mirror gives more room for shoes and hats.
Where to place it
- Bedroom: near a closet or a clear wall with enough floor space to step back.
- Entryway: near the door, with enough clearance to open the door.
- Bathroom: only if the mirror is rated for a damp room.
Lean or hang
A leaning mirror is easy to install but should be secured to the wall. A hanging mirror needs hardware rated for the weight. If you rent, a leaning mirror with a safety strap is often the simplest option.
Frame and finish
A wood frame warms a bedroom; a metal frame suits a modern room; a framed mirror with a shelf can double as a vanity. Match the frame to the room's dominant metal or wood tone rather than trying to match everything.
Light
Place the mirror opposite or adjacent to a window if possible. Avoid facing a mirror directly at a bright window; the glare can make the reflection uncomfortable.
Safety
Use a wall anchor for tall or heavy mirrors. Keep the bottom edge off the floor if the mirror is in a high-traffic area, and check the hardware every few months.
