Trying to use a bathroom mirror that won’t stay closed can be annoying. Now, you’re wondering why this is happening in the first place. What can you do to fix it? We researched for you so you don't have to, and here’s what we found.
A bathroom mirror may fail to close if it encounters issues ranging from a bad magnet to a warped frame. Make sure to identify and verify the main cause of this problem. Then, use the correct solution based on your findings.
So continue reading as we talk about the possible reasons why your bathroom’s mirror doesn’t close in greater detail. We’ll also tackle the potential solutions to each of the likely causes.
Reasons Why Bathroom Mirrors Won't Stay Close (And Their Fixes)
Bad Magnets
If used in optimal working conditions, magnets should last about 100 years. But the efficacy of a magnet lock or latch, particularly in a bathroom mirror, may reduce over time. One potential suspect to this issue is because of a higher-than-usual temperature in the immediate environment.
In particular, frequent exposure to mild to high heat can reduce a magnet’s magnetism. Another possible reason for bathroom mirror magnets failing is because of banging or slamming of the fixture’s door frequently.
How To Fix
If the magnet is falling off or misaligned, you can apply magnetic tape to help realign the piece to its original position. However, you may need to replace the faulty magnet if realigning it produces less-than-satisfactory results. If so, follow these general steps:
What You’ll Need
- Philips screwdriver
- Replacement magnetic door latch
- Hand drill (optional)
Step-By-Step Guide
- Unscrew and remove the faulty magnetic latch in the bathroom mirror’s cabinet-like fixture.
- If you’re installing a magnetic latch with a different design, drill new holes in the mirror’s wooden frame. Otherwise, skip this step.
- If you’re installing the same latch as the faulty unit, screw the new module in place.
- Open and close the bathroom mirror’s door or pane to check if the new magnetic latch is working as intended.
Check out this magnetic door catch kit on Amazon.
Note: You might have to modify some of the steps mentioned above depending on your bathroom mirror’s design and the specific latch you’re changing.
Watch the video below if you need a visual guide to this procedure. Also, the clip shows how to replace a magnetic latch from a cabinet. Nonetheless, the process should still be similar to changing that module on certain bathroom mirrors.
Warning: The video’s intro contains messages not suitable for all audiences. Skip to the 1-minute and 30-second mark for the start of the magnetic latch replacement operation.
Broken Or Worn Hinges
Door hinges, including those in bathroom mirror cabinets, can wear out over time. This issue can cause the mirror’s door to misalign, preventing it from closing.
How To Fix
Replacing the broken or worn hinges is generally the best solution for this particular concern. But it’s ideal to have another person hold the mirror while you’re removing the old hinges. That way, you can prevent the reflective material from crashing to the ground.
What You’ll Need
- Screwdriver
- Replacement hinges
- Hand drill (optional)
Step-By-Step Guide
- Let the other person hold the open mirror as you’re unscrewing the old hinges.
- Remove the old and worn hinges once they’re loose.
- If you’re installing hinges that are the same model as the old models, screw the new units to the same spot.
- If you’re installing hinges that have a different design, you may need to drill new holes to accommodate the units’ construction.
- Once installed, test the bathroom mirror by opening and closing it.
Check out these glass door hinges on Amazon.
Bowed Frame
Some bathroom mirrors have wooden frames. But the wooden material used for the frame may bow or warp because of the moisture in the immediate space. Wood bowing or warping may also occur if the material catches an uneven amount of moisture in its different areas.
How To Fix
Replacing the bathroom mirror's wooden frame might be the best option to solve this particular problem. However, ensure that the wood you're going to use for this project is water-resistant. Otherwise, you might expect this issue to reoccur.
Some types of wood you may use for this task are:
- Cherry
- Oak
- Maple
- Western Red Cedar
After getting your preferred water-resistant wood, continue this process by following these steps:
What You’ll Need
- Putty knife
- Flathead screwdriver
- Heat gun or hair dryer
- Circular saw
- Steel measuring tape
- Wood stain
- Cloth or rag
- Paintbrush
- Silicone caulk
- Caulk gun
- Pen, pencil, or marker
Step-By-Step Guide
- Start removing the warped wooden material by wedging a putty knife between the frame and the mirror.
- Use a heat gun or hair drier for about 20 to 40 seconds to heat and loosen the adhesive or wood glue.
- Pry the wooden frame from the mirror by using a flathead screwdriver with a putty knife.
- Repeat steps 1 to 3 on different areas of the bathroom mirror assembly until you can remove the frame safely.
- Use a steel measuring tape to measure the dimensions needed for the new wooden frame.
- Cut the wood for the new frame to size using a circular saw.
- Seal the wooden boards with your preferred stain.
- Apply a reasonable amount of silicone caulk on the boards. Make sure to apply this product on the face that'll stick to the mirror's side.
- Stick the wooden boards around the bathroom mirror to frame it.
- Test the new assembly by opening and closing it.
Tip: Avoid using the warped wood as a reference when measuring the dimensions for the new frame. Doing so may result in errors in the measurements.
Note: Generally, you need sufficient DIY woodworking knowledge to complete this task. Avoid attempting this process if you’re not confident about it, or you don’t have enough know-how in using the tools. If so, let expert woodworkers and installers do this job for you.
Watch this video if you need a visual representation of this procedure. It's important to mention that this clip shows how to replace a solid bathroom mirror's wooden frame. So you may need to modify some of the steps mentioned above to fit your bathroom mirror if the fixture acts like a cabinet:
You might also be wondering how much space you need between sconces and bathroom mirrors. If so, follow that link to know the answer.
How Do I Choose A Bathroom Mirror?
You may also choose to replace the entire bathroom mirror assembly with a new model. This option might be ideal if your old bathroom mirror is giving you frequent problems.
Keep reading to know some factors you should be thinking about as you’re shopping for the best bathroom mirror that fits your needs and preferences:
- Size: Your bathroom mirror’s dimensions shouldn’t be too large or small for the space.
- Shape: Base your mirror’s shape on your needs. For example, a tall mirror may help provide the illusion of the room’s height extending even if it’s a relatively short room.
- Frame: If you want a mirror with a frame, choose a design that matches the bathroom.
- Budget: Take note that custom-made options are often more expensive than ready-made selections.
Check out this bathroom mirror on Amazon.
What Mirror Is Best For A Bathroom?
If you’re looking into replacing your old bathroom mirror with a new model, some ideal candidates exist on the market. One particular option is the KOHLER medicine cabinet, which comes with a mirror.
This product has a sleek look that can complement contemporary or minimalist bathrooms. Its frame also has an anodized aluminum construction, making it chip- and rust-resistant.
Check out this product on Amazon.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace Mirror In Bathroom?
Generally, you might need to spend about $80 to $200 to replace a bathroom mirror. But the overall expenses may differ depending on factors like the frame's material, the difficulty of the job, and your property's location.
Final Thoughts
Remember, find the reason why your bathroom mirror won’t remain closed. Then, use the solution that can fix the problem from its source. If you don’t want to go through the repair or replacement job using DIY techniques, think about hiring industry professionals instead.
If you’re looking for answers to other bathroom mirror concerns, don’t forget to read these posts:
Pros And Cons Of Lighted Bathroom Mirrors [Inc. LED]
How To Get Scratches Out Of A Bathroom Mirror [6 Ways To Try!]