Determine what type of wall you have: drywall, plaster, or masonry. To see if you have drywall or plaster, push a tack into the wall. If it goes in easily, it's drywall.

A hanging mirror has to have a strong frame. If your new mirror already has hardware attached, it's safe to hang. If you're not sure about an old mirror, you can reinforce the frame with angle brackets.

A bathroom scale works fine. Hardware weight limits are listed on the hardware packaging.

Pick a spot to hang the mirror. Locating it over a stud is helpful, but not necessary with the right anchors. Always mark the center of the stud, and keep in mind utilities might be attached to it if the stud is near a light switch, outlet, or faucet.

Hold the mirror in place — close to eye level. Mark the wall near the center of the top edge with a pencil or painter's tape.

Note: Enlist a helper if the mirror is heavy.

On the back of the mirror you'll probably see D-rings or a wire. You can hang rings or wire from two hooks on the wall.

To get the right space between the hooks, stick a long piece of tape on a level and mark the space between the D-rings.

Set the level aside. Lock one of the mounting hooks on the ring as it will be positioned on the wall. Measure from the mounting hole in the hook to the top of the mirror.

Transfer this distance to the wall, measuring down from the line you marked in Step 1.

Centre your level on the wall and mark the location for the hook mounting holes.

If you're in line with a stud, secure the hardware to it. If not, install a wall anchor and attach the hardware.

Tip: All-in-one screw and anchor products are available.

Add bumpers to the bottom of the mirror to prevent scratching the wall.

Gently hang the mirror on the hooks.

You can also use metal cleats to hang mirrors with sturdy frames; just follow the package directions. Usually, you position the top cleat at the top of the frame, make shallow holes, and attach it with the included screws.

Tip: Use an awl to make starter holes for the screws.

On the wall, level the bottom cleat, and secure it with screws.

Use wall anchors if the bottom cleat isn't lined up over wall studs.

Set the mirror in place.

If the back of your mirror has three cross brackets, it can be hanged vertically or horizontally. You'll only need to use two of the three brackets.

Measure the distance between the holes in the brackets you plan to use. Be sure to also measure the distance between the bracket and the top of the mirror — this ensures the mirror hangs evenly.

Tip: Be sure to clear the area where you're installing the mirror. The fewer the obstacles, the better.

Use a level and the measurement between the two brackets to mark where the screws will go.

Use a screw, if provided, and a hammer to lightly puncture the wall. After the wall is punctured, use a screwdriver to drive the screw into the wall. Pull the screw out to make wider holes.

Use a hammer to carefully and slowly insert the anchor into the holes. Use a screwdriver to place the screw into the anchor, leaving about a quarter of an inch sticking out.

With the screws in place, it's time to hang the mirror.

If you want to hang a mirror with a single bracket, you'll only need to focus on the outside holes in the bracket. Measure the distance between the center of the two outside holes.

Tip: You may want to clear your work area in order to have plenty of room to work in.

Mark where the screws will go by using your measurements, a level, and a pencil.

Insert the screw into the wall and gently remove it. This will create a wide enough hole for the anchor to fit in. Insert the anchors. If you need help, carefully and slowly use a hammer to put the anchor in place. You're now ready to place the screw or hook.

With the screws in place, it's time to hang the mirror. You might need a helper depending on the size and weight of the mirror.