How to Hang A Mirror on The Wall
Seven years of bad luck sounds absolutely terrible. I do not want that for myself and I certainly do not want that for you. Hanging a mirror feels scary because glass is heavy and fragile and expensive. I have stood there with a drill in one hand and a heavy mirror in the other while sweating profusely. But I learned the right way to do it. Mastering how to hang a mirror on the wall is simpler than it looks.
Assess the Weight and Wall Type
Before I touch a hammer, I figure out exactly how heavy the “beast” is. Using a simple bathroom scale, I weigh myself first, then weigh myself while holding the mirror. The difference is the mirror’s weight.
Knowing the weight dictates which anchors to buy. Using a tiny nail for a fifty-pound mirror is a recipe for disaster.
Next, I check what’s behind the paint:
- Drywall: Sounds hollow when tapped.
- Plaster: Feels harder, colder, and crumbles easily.
Knowing your wall type prevents you from drilling a hole that just keeps getting bigger.
Gather the Essential Tools
I gather my supplies before starting so I don’t have to run to the garage halfway through. Having everything ready makes me feel like a pro.
Essential Inventory:
- Stud finder and cordless drill
- Level and tape measure
- Pencil and hammer
- Hardware: Plastic toggle anchors (drywall) or toggle bolts (plaster). Avoid cheap plastic plugs!
Finding the Studs
I always aim for a stud because wood beams are the strongest place to hang heavy objects.
- The Gold Standard: Use a stud finder to locate the beam and drive a wood screw directly into it.
- The Backup Plan: If the stud isn’t where you want the mirror, use heavy-duty screw-in anchors for medium weight or toggle bolts for the heavy stuff.
Checking the Mirror Hardware
Check the back of the mirror to see how it’s meant to hang.
- D-Rings: My preference. Using two separate hooks keeps the mirror level and stable.
- Wire: Check for fraying and secure knots. Be aware that wire tends to slide, making the mirror go crooked when the house vibrates.
Pro Tip: Measure the distance between D-rings three times. Precision here saves you from drilling extra holes.
Measuring for Placement
I hold the mirror up to find the perfect height—usually, eye level is about 60 inches from the floor.
The Measuring Process:
- Mark the top edge of the frame on the wall with a pencil.
- Measure from the top of the frame down to the hardware on the back.
- Transfer that measurement to the wall.
- Use a level to draw a straight light pencil line between your marks.
Installing the Anchors
Drill your pilot holes right on your pencil marks.
- If you hit wood: Drive the screw in directly.
- If you hit hollow air: Use your specific wall anchors.
- The Gap: Leave the screw head sticking out about a quarter inch. If it’s too deep, the hardware won’t catch and you’ll scratch the wall.
The Final Hang
This is the moment of truth. I carefully lower the mirror onto the screws, often asking a friend to spot me.
Once it catches, I check the level one last time:
- With a wire: Just nudge the mirror until it’s straight.
- With D-rings: If you measured carefully, it should be perfect.
Slowly let go of the weight and enjoy your handiwork!
FAQs
Final Reflections
Hanging a mirror does not have to be a terrifying experience filled with visions of shattered glass. I simply take my time to assess the wall and choose the right hardware. I measure everything twice and use a level to keep things straight.
Once that mirror is up on the wall it transforms the room by adding light and depth. Now I can admire my work and check my hair at the same time.

I am Mindy Medford, a home décor, paint, and design specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience transforming ordinary spaces into cozy, personality-packed havens. Since 2013, I have been helping homeowners discover the art of beautiful yet practical design. I share my love for color, texture, and layout—making stylish interiors & exteriors feel achievable for everyone. Whether it’s picking the perfect paint shade or reimagining a small space, I’m here to guide and inspire.


