How to Replace a Mirror on a Bath Cabinet Vanity

A bath cabinet vanity is designed a little differently than standard bathroom cabinets. The vanity is typically a separate piece of furniture that a sink is placed in. The mirrors often are attached to the back of the vanity, as opposed to hung directly on the wall. This creates more of an antique or Victorian feel. If you need to replace the mirror, this isn't difficult. It will require some patience and a few tools.

Step 1- Inspect the Connections

Before you can determine how best to tackle this, you need to take a good look at how the mirror connects. You may need to crouch down next to the vanity to inspect this, since you won't be able to easily get behind it. In most cases the mirrors are actually attached at the sides of bathroom vanity cabinets for this reason precisely. Oversized mirrors may also have additional connections, under the counter, inside the cabinet itself. 

Step 2- Remove the Mirror

Have a friend help with this, as these mirrors can be much heavier than they appear. Use a wrench to remove the bolts that hold the brackets in place at the side of the vanity. Place the bolts and brackets to the side. If your mirror also attaches underneath the counter, look for the bolts and brackets here and remove these.

Gently pull the mirror away from the wall. You may find yet another connection from the mirror into the stud. Remove this and place the mirror to the side.

Step 3- Measure and Purchase New Mirror

Measure the size of the old mirror if possible. If the mirror is broken and can't be measured, measure from the outside edge of the cabinet to the outside edge of the hinges. Most mirrors will be slightly larger than this, to cover the hardware and frame. Purchase a new mirror with dimensions as close to your measurements as possible.

Step 4- Prepare New Mirror

You will need to prepare the back of the mirror before you can install it. In most cases, you just need to clean it with window cleaner and allow it to dry. Some mirrors require you add an epoxy substance to the area where the hinges are going to be attached. If this is necessary the directions will be included with the mirror.

Step 5- Attach Mirror

Place the mirror over the hinges, and attach it as directed. You won't be able to drill through the mirror, so the hinges will be placed on a bracket on the back side of the mirror. Some frames require that you use and adhesive around the inside edge of the mirror, to attach to a door on the face of the cabinet. If this is necessary, you need to allow the mirror to stay in place, unmoved, for several hours. You can use clamps to hold the mirror in place. Once this is done, you can begin to use the cabinet again.