Shaving cabinet or mirror? How to choose for your bathroom

The space above the vanity does two jobs: it gives you a mirror, and it can give you storage. Choosing between a shaving cabinet and a mirror comes down to how much you need to store and the look you want.

When a shaving cabinet makes sense

• The vanity has limited storage, such as a small or open shelf vanity.
• Two people share the bathroom and need their own space.
• You want medicines and toiletries out of sight but within reach.
• The bathroom is small and every bit of storage counts.

Shaving cabinets are usually 120mm to 150mm deep and have mirrored doors, so you still get a full mirror. Our LED shaving cabinets add lighting, and non LED shaving cabinets keep it simple.

When a mirror is the better choice

• The vanity has plenty of drawers.
• You want a feature shape, such as round, arched or pill shaped.
• The wall has tiles or a feature you want to show around the mirror.
• You prefer a lighter, more open look.

An LED mirror gives even light at the face, which is useful for shaving and makeup. See our bathroom lighting guide.

Sizing

As a rule, the mirror or cabinet should be the same width as the vanity or slightly narrower. On a wide vanity with two basins, use one long cabinet or two separate mirrors centred over each basin. Leave a gap between the top of the tapware and the bottom of the cabinet so doors open freely.

Recessed or surface mounted

A recessed shaving cabinet sits inside the wall cavity, so it protrudes less and looks built in. It needs to be planned before the wall is sheeted and tiled, and the stud spacing must suit. A surface mounted cabinet is simpler and can be fitted in an existing bathroom.

Power for LED models

LED mirrors and cabinets need a power point or a hard wired connection, positioned before tiling. Some include demisters and sensor switches, so check the product details and ask your electrician to plan the connection.

Matching the vanity

Many ranges from Otti and Aulic offer shaving cabinets in the same timber and colour finishes as their vanities, so the cabinet and vanity read as a set. Alternatively, a white or mirrored cabinet works with any vanity.

Shaving cabinets for shared bathrooms

In a family bathroom, a cabinet with two or three doors gives each person a section. A wider cabinet over a double vanity can replace two mirrors and add storage for everyone. Look for adjustable shelves so tall bottles fit.

Mirror shapes and styles

Round and arched mirrors soften a bathroom with lots of straight lines. Rectangular mirrors suit modern spaces and can be hung vertically or horizontally. Framed mirrors in black, brass or timber add a decorative element. If you choose a feature mirror, add a niche or tall cabinet elsewhere for storage.

Ensuites and powder rooms

A powder room rarely needs much storage, so a feature mirror is often the best choice. In an ensuite used by two people, a shaving cabinet is usually more practical. Our ensuite renovation guide covers storage in more detail.

See them in person

Compare shaving cabinets and mirrors at our Reservoir and Geelong showrooms. If you are renovating, book a free measure and ask us to quote installation by our qualified trades, a paid service.

Common questions

How deep is a shaving cabinet?

Most are around 120mm to 150mm deep. Recessed cabinets protrude less because part of the body sits inside the wall.

Should a shaving cabinet be the same width as the vanity?

It should be the same width or slightly narrower, centred over the vanity or basin.

Do LED mirrors need an electrician?

Yes. LED mirrors and cabinets need a power connection, which should be installed by a licensed electrician before tiling.

Can I fit a recessed shaving cabinet in an existing bathroom?

It is possible but usually means cutting into the wall and tiles, so it is easier during a renovation. A surface mounted cabinet suits an existing bathroom.

Where can I see shaving cabinets?

At our Reservoir and Geelong showrooms, where you can compare sizes, finishes and LED options.

Visit us or shop online

See the range in person at our showrooms: Geelong at 35A Ryrie St, Geelong VIC 3220, phone (03) 5223 2765, and Reservoir at 214 Broadway, Reservoir VIC 3073, phone (03) 9867 5051. Both are open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:30am to 3:00pm, and Sunday by appointment only.

Planning a renovation? Request a quote and a free measure, and ask us to include installation by our qualified trades if you would like it quoted. Prefer to shop from home? Order online with Australia-wide delivery, or pick up from either showroom, usually ready in 2 to 4 days.