So you’ve finally been convinced that you need to upgrade to an LED bathroom mirror. It’s probably one of the best upgrades you can make for your home—and yourself. They not only elevate the bathroom aesthetic and experience, but also come packed with handy features, with the main point being their integrated LED lighting.
And with light comes a power supply, which means some wiring is done. Which brings us to one of the most asked questions: Do LED mirrors need wiring?
Join me in this post as we uncover the different ways to power up LED bathroom mirrors as you continue on this journey.
What Makes LED Bathroom Mirrors So Special? The Benefits:
Before we proceed to the different bathroom mirror power options, it helps to know what makes LED bathroom mirrors a popular pick.
LED bathroom mirrors are, fundamentally, mirrors with lights. They don’t just reflect your face, they light up too! They come with built-in LED strips for bright, even lighting that’s perfect for shaving, skincare, or makeup.
Some models, especially the newer ones, include cool extra features like:
- Touch or motion sensor controls
- Built-in anti-fog or demisters
- Adjustable lighting
- Bluetooth speakers (of course)
Can you tell what all those features have in common? They all need power. That’s where the wiring question comes in.
Plug-In LED Mirrors: The DIY-Friendly Favourite
These LED mirrors come with a standard power plug, just like any appliances you have at home (your hairdryer, washing machine, etc.). Simply plug it into a nearby outlet, and you’re good to go and enjoy your lighted mirror.
Here are their pros and cons:
✅ Quick and easy to set up
✅ No professional install needed (can DIY)
✅ Perfect for renters
✅ Short-term installation/use
❌ Visible cords won’t allow a clean look
❌ Needs to have a nearby outlet (depends on how long the cord is)
❌ Will require additional cord management items
A plug-in mirror will do you well if you’re after a fast, hassle-free, and DIY-friendly bathroom mirror upgrade. They’re also perfect for renters. You can even take the mirror with you when you move.
Hardwired LED Mirrors: Sleek and Professional
The main difference between this and the plug-in mirror is that the hardwired mirror connects directly to your mains circuit, a.k.a. your home’s electrical system. That means the LED bathroom mirror’s setup is clean and seamless since there are no visible cords!
And while there are pros to this type of LED mirror, there are also some cons we need to note. Let’s look at both:
✅ No visible wires for a super tidy setup
✅ Often more durable and reliable than other types
✅ Ideal for permanent installation, so it’s more robust
❌ Will usually require an electrician
❌ More time-consuming to install
❌ Not easily moved since it’s connected to the mains
Having a hardwired LED mirror makes the setup feel more custom. They’re perfect for complete renovation or building from scratch.
Battery-Powered LED Mirrors: Are They a Thing?
Technically, yes, they’re a thing if we’re just talking about LED mirrors in general. But for LED bathroom mirrors, they’re pretty rare.
Battery-powered LED mirrors are more common in compact or travel-friendly designs. They run on replaceable batteries or have a built-in rechargeable power supply and don’t need any wiring (unless you’re charging them).
So, what makes them great (and not great)?
✅ Totally cordless
✅ No need for outlets
✅ No wiring
✅ Easily install virtually anywhere
❌ Since they’re typically smaller, they have lower brightness
❌ Fewer features than typical LED bathroom mirrors
❌ Batteries need replacing or recharging
❌ Not ideal for daily heavy use
❌ Very rare to find one for bathroom installation
Though they may not be as good and reliable as the more common LED bathroom mirror, these battery-powered versions are very useful, depending on the setting. Just don’t expect a full spa-level lighting.
They’re great for small powder rooms, low-use guest bathrooms, or anywhere outlets are tricky to reach.
So, Which Power Option Is Right for You?
When deciding which type of LED bathroom mirror to use, it all comes down to what you need from the LED bathroom mirror. Here’s a quick rundown of each type to help guide you:
- If you’re doing a complete renovation or building a bathroom from scratch, go hardwired for a clean and polished finish.
- If you need one that’s DIY-friendly, and you can easily move to another bathroom, go for a plug-in LED mirror.
- No wiring access? Just want something that’s super easy? Then battery-powered might just be enough.
Before making the final decision of which type of LED bathroom mirror you’ll get, first think about:
- Where is your mirror going
- How often you’ll use the mirror
- How handy you are with tools (Can you DIY it or not? How comfortable are you hiring someone who can install it for you?)
Quick Note on LED Mirror Safety
We can hardly stress this enough, but whenever dealing with lighting and electricity, always make safety a priority.
Bathrooms are damp, high-moisture spaces. If you’re going for a hardwired mirror, we always recommend hiring a qualified electrician to do the job right. Even plug-in mirrors should be installed thoughtfully to avoid water contact with the cord or outlet.
Conclusion
LED bathroom mirrors come in all shapes, sizes—and power setups. They’re a popular pick for modern homes, whether renovating or just upgrading the bathroom. If you want the clean look of a hardwired LED mirror or the convenience of a plug-in one, there’s a perfect option for your space.
The best part? You don’t have to look far. Simple Lighting has a complete collection of LED bathroom mirrors that are sure to elevate your bathroom experience. Visit our website to browse our collection.
