Builder-grade bathroom mirrors often include visible mirror clips that hold the glass securely against the wall. While those clips can make some framing projects more challenging, it doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a plain, unfinished mirror. We’re going to explain how to frame a bathroom mirror without removing clips.

What Are Mirror Clips?

Mirror mounting clips are small plastic or metal brackets that secure a frameless mirror to the wall. Many builder-grade bathroom mirrors use clips because they’re an affordable, reliable way to support large pieces of plate glass.

In many installations, the mirror also rests in a metal channel along the bottom edge, while clips around the top and sides keep the mirror firmly in place. This combination creates a secure installation that can last for decades.

Why Are Mirror Clips Used?

Builders often prefer mirror clips because they simplify installation and reduce the amount of adhesive needed to mount the mirror. They also make future mirror removal easier.

Removing a mirror that’s glued to the wall often damages the drywall much more than removing a mirror secured with clips.

Is It Possible to Place a Mirror Frame Over Clips?

Yes, but not every frame is designed to do it. Some DIY mirror framing kits require a completely flat mirror surface, making visible clips an obstacle. If the frame isn’t designed to accommodate the mounting hardware, you’ll either have to remove the clips or choose another product.

Fortunately, MirrorMate’s framed bathroom mirror kits are specifically designed to fit over existing clips and metal channels, allowing you to keep your current mirror exactly where it is. The recessed channel built into every MirrorMate frame was engineered specifically to clear the clips commonly found on builder-grade mirrors, so in most installations there's no need to remove the existing mounting hardware.

How to Frame a Bathroom Mirror With Clips

If you’re wondering how to frame a bathroom mirror with clips, the process is easier than you might think. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Inspect your mirror installation.

Identify where the clips are located and note whether your mirror also sits inside a metal channel or touches a backsplash or side wall. These details determine which framing system will work with your mirror.

Step 2: Measure carefully.

Measure your mirror, including the exact width and height. Also measure the distance from the mirror’s edges to the nearest obstruction (light fixture, outlet, backsplash, or wall) in every direction. Write these measurements down. Be as accurate as possible to ensure your custom-crafted mirror frame fits correctly.

Step 3: Choose a frame designed for mirrors with clips.

This is the most important step. Rather than trying to modify your existing hardware, order a frame with a recessed back that fits over the clips, like a MirrorMate bathroom mirror frame.

Creating that recessed channel yourself typically requires a router and woodworking experience. Choosing a frame that's already designed to clear mirror clips saves time and eliminates unnecessary trial and error while preserving the original installation.

Step 4: Assemble the frame.

Most DIY mirror frame kits arrive in pieces that connect together before installation. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the corners are square and secure.

Step 5: Attach the frame directly to the mirror.

Instead of fastening the frame to the wall, MirrorMate frame systems adhere directly to the mirror surface with commercial-grade adhesive. This covers the clips around the perimeter for a showroom-perfect look.

Step 6: Enjoy your updated bathroom.

You’ve done the work, now it’s time to enjoy the results. A fresh new mirror frame gives your boring plate-glass mirror an instant makeover without the cost, mess, or risk of removing the existing glass.

Frame Your Mirror With Clips With MirrorMate

MirrorMate makes it easy to frame a bathroom mirror without removing clips. Our patented design features a recessed back that fits neatly over existing mirror clips and metal channels while concealing them from view.

MirrorMate frames are custom crafted to fit almost any square or rectangular mirror—even those that rest on a backsplash, sit in a channel, or touch a side wall. Whether you need a vintage-inspired frame for a historic home remodel or a sleek metallic frame for a modern powder room, you’ll find it in our catalog of more than 50 styles.

MirrorMate makes framing a bathroom mirror easy. Shop our collections to find your perfect frame.

FAQs

Can I frame a bathroom mirror without removing the clips?

Yes, but to get a flush appearance you should use a frame designed to fit over existing mirror clips, like MirrorMate. These frames conceal the hardware while leaving the mirror securely mounted.

Should I remove mirror clips before adding a frame?

No, in fact, doing so will weaken your mirror’s mounting, even if the mirror is also held up with adhesive. It’s much easier to use a frame that accommodates the clips, like MirrorMate frames.

MirrorMate frames fit over most small clips because every frame includes a recessed channel that clears standard mirror mounting hardware. If you have a mirror mounted with plastic clips larger than 1” tall and 1” wide, simply indicate this during the ordering process, and MirrorMate will send replacement clips with your order so you can swap them out during installation. If your clips are plastic but smaller than 1”, you should not need replacement clips.

Do all mirror frames fit over clips?

No, some DIY mirror frames require a flat mirror surface. Always verify that the frame is compatible with clipped mirrors before ordering.

Can I frame a mirror with a metal channel?

Yes, some framing systems, including MirrorMate DIY framing bathroom mirror kits, are designed to fit over both mirror clips and bottom metal channels that hold the mirror securely to the wall.

Will a framed mirror still look custom if it has clips?

Yes, when the frame covers the clips completely, the finished mirror looks like a professionally installed framed mirror.

Is framing an existing mirror easier than replacing it?

For most homeowners, yes. Framing the existing mirror avoids demolition and reduces installation time.