Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Decorating with Antique Mirrors

Antique mirrors can bring so much charm to your home. They tell a story, add warmth, and create a beautiful, lived-in feel. But if you’ve ever tried decorating with one, you know it’s not always as easy as it looks on Pinterest.

A lot of homeowners in the U.S. make common decorating mistakes with antique mirrors, and those little errors can take away from their charm. If you're planning to add one to your home, here are five easy mistakes to avoid — and how to fix them.

 
1. Treating It Like a Regular Mirror
The Mistake: Hanging it in a hallway or bathroom just to check your reflection.

Why It’s a Problem: Antique mirrors are more about style than function. Most have aged glass or old frames that make them better for decorating than for daily grooming.

What to Do Instead: Use it as a feature piece. Hang it in your living room, above a console table, or near a fireplace where it can shine. Let it be the star of the room.

2. Picking the Wrong Size
The Mistake: Using a mirror that’s way too big or too small for the space.

Why It’s a Problem: A giant mirror in a small room can feel overwhelming, and a tiny mirror on a big wall can look out of place.

What to Do Instead: Choose a mirror that fits the space just right. In bigger American homes, go for larger mirrors to fill the wall. In apartments or smaller rooms, stick to medium or small sizes that won’t crowd the space.

3. Hanging It Where It Reflects Something Ugly
The Mistake: Hanging the mirror where it reflects clutter, an empty wall, or an untidy space like an unmade bed.

Why It’s a Problem: Mirrors show whatever they face. If it’s something messy or boring, the mirror will double it.

What to Do Instead: Place your mirror where it reflects something pretty — like a window, plants, art, or a cozy sitting area. This makes the room feel bigger and brighter too.

4. Not Hanging It Safely
The Mistake: Using small nails or weak hooks to hang a heavy mirror.

Why It’s a Problem: Antique mirrors are heavy! If they fall, they can break or damage your wall (and maybe hurt someone).

What to Do Instead: Use strong wall anchors or screw it into studs. If you're not sure, ask someone at your local hardware store or hire a handyman. It’s worth it for safety.

5. Trying to Match Everything
The Mistake: Only using the mirror with other antique furniture.

Why It’s a Problem: This can make your home look too old-fashioned or stuck in one style.

What to Do Instead: Mix it up! Antique mirrors look amazing with modern or rustic furniture. A mix of old and new gives your space personality and feels more relaxed.

Final Thoughts
Decorating with an antique mirror doesn’t have to be hard. Just avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll turn that mirror into something truly special. Whether your home is big or small, classic or modern, an antique mirror can bring charm, warmth, and just the right amount of shine.

FAQs

Q1. Where should I place an antique mirror?
In living rooms, entryways, or above fireplaces—anywhere it can reflect light or decor.

Q2. Are antique mirrors safe to hang on any wall?
Only if you use strong anchors or studs. They’re heavy, so secure hanging is a must.

Q3. Can I mix antique mirrors with modern furniture?
Yes! Mixing styles adds personality and balance to your space.

Q4. How do I clean an antique mirror?
Wipe gently with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners or spraying directly on the glass.

Q5. How do I tell if a mirror is really antique?
Look for aged glass, small imperfections, and worn frames. Patina is a good sign.