Consider the room's primary function. For bathrooms, moisture-resistant vanity mirrors are essential. For living rooms, decorative mirrors or a large wall mirror work best to reflect light and act as art. For bedrooms, a full body mirror is the standard for dressing and grooming.

Use a clean microfiber cloth and a small amount of ammonia-free glass cleaner. To protect the silvering on the back of the glass, always spray the cloth rather than the mirror itself, which prevents liquid from pooling at the bottom edge and causing corrosion.

While centering a wall mirror is common for symmetry (like above a mantel), off-center placement can work beautifully in contemporary designs or when balancing other wall elements like art or shelving to create a curated gallery look.

Look for a thick glass (usually 1/4 inch) to prevent "funhouse" distortion. High-quality mirrors also feature a copper-free silvering process and a protective coating on the back to prevent oxidation and black edges over time.

Mirrors act as secondary light sources. By placing a large wall mirror opposite a window or a lamp, you can effectively double the amount of light in a room, making it feel brighter and more inviting without increasing your energy usage.