For UK householders who are considering investing in a bathroom mirror cabinet with lights, it may be tempting to initially focus largely on the aesthetic aspects of their decision. These may include recent trends and how their chosen cabinet would fit in visually with the broader space.

The reality, however, is that if this describes your situation, you will also be well-advised to pay close attention to vital aspects of practicality, durability, and longevity.

These elements, after all, are closely linked to how any bathroom cabinet that you purchase looks not only now, but over the months and years to come. This will necessitate you paying close attention to various aspects of materials, finishes, and hardware.

Why Can A UK Bathroom Be a Challenge for A Bathroom Mirror Cabinet with Lights?

Before we delve into the above aspects, it is important to remind ourselves why a bathroom cabinet – and certainly an illuminated one – can be particularly susceptible to ageing badly in a British bathroom.

This is a part of the world where bathrooms are frequently small, poorly ventilated, and prone to condensation, especially in older properties. During a shower, for example, humidity levels can escalate, potentially creating a breeding ground for mould, rust, and the degradation of materials.

So, whatever choice you ultimately make for your next bathroom mirror cabinet with lights, you will want to be sure of having carefully thought about its materials and features, in the context of the aforementioned risks.

What Materials Stand Up Well to Humidity?

Your bathroom cabinet’s core material will have foundational importance in ensuring its longevity. Not all materials are of equal effectiveness when it comes to resisting moisture:

• Solid wood may seem like a luxurious choice, but it can also be risky unless it has been specifically treated for bathroom use. Untreated oak, pine, or walnut can be particular absorbers of moisture, potentially leading to warping or cracking over time.
  
  
• Plywood with marine-grade sealing can be a solid choice for withstanding humidity, given the water-resistant glues it is made with.
  
  
• MDF (medium-density fibreboard) is commonly used in budget cabinets. However, unless it is high-density and sealed with a waterproof coating, it can be prone to swelling when subject to moisture.
  
  
• Metal or stainless-steel frames offer a sleek, contemporary look. However, mild steel or untreated metals should be avoided, given how quickly they can rust in damp environments. Cabinets with stainless steel or powder-coated aluminium frames, though, are virtually immune to rust and corrosion.
  
  
• PVC or acrylic have become more popular choices for bathroom cabinets in recent times. These synthetic materials are non-porous, and can be trusted not to warp or crack.

What Finishes Resist Discolouration?

The finish of your lit bathroom mirror cabinet will be its first line of defence against moisture and ultraviolet (UV) light. So, you will want to be sure that it doesn’t rapidly yellow, peel, or fade:

• Powder-coated metal can be relied upon to provide a tough and non-porous finish that doesn’t fade or chip. For this reason, you might be particularly likely to consider it if you live in a home by the coast, where the salt air can contribute to faster corrosion.
  
  
• High-gloss lacquer or polyurethane can offer a hard, waterproof barrier that resists discolouration and is easy to clean. A cabinet with multiple lacquer coatings, rather than just one, can provide particularly impressive protection.
  
  
• A painted finish that is of low quality could present a high risk of discolouration over time, due to the paint chipping or peeling in humid conditions. This is why it can be a good idea to insist on a high-quality, factory-applied finish with a moisture-resistant, two-part epoxy or enamel paint.
  

What Hinges or Hardware Won’t Rust?

The lifespan of a given bathroom mirror cabinet with lights can also be impacted by easy-to-miss smaller details, such as hinges, handles, and drawer runners:

• Stainless steel or brass hinges can be an excellent choice for bathroom cabinets. Solid brass, as well as stainless steel at grade 304 or higher, offers corrosion resistance. “Soft-close” hinges are often better-sealed than alternatives, and less susceptible to wear.
  
  
• Rust-resistant handles include those made from such materials as stainless steel, brass, or anodised aluminium.
  
  
• Metal drawer runners with ball bearings are more durable than plastic or wooden ones. UK householders are advised to look for runners that have a corrosion-resistant coating. 
  
  

Choose An Illuminated Bathroom Mirror Cabinet That Ticks All the Vital Boxes

Hopefully, this guide will have helped make clear to you the importance of not separating aesthetics from functionality and material concerns, if you want to be sure of choosing a bathroom cabinet that holds up well over time. There isn’t just one “secret” to preventing the premature ageing of your cabinet, but instead a multitude of factors. For a more detailed conversation about how our team can work with you on the creation of a bathroom mirror cabinet with lights that satisfies your highest expectations now and for many years ahead, please contact us.

The post The Secret to Choosing a Bathroom Cabinet That Wont Age Badly appeared first on Illuminated Mirrors Blog.