Introduction

A full bathroom renovation involves dozens of decisions in a specific order. Miss a step and you risk costly delays. This checklist walks through every phase • from demolition through final installation • with guidance on when to select and install your medicine cabinet and LED mirror.

We have organized this guide chronologically so you can use it as a working document throughout your project. Print it out, check off each phase, and keep your renovation on track and on budget.

The typical bathroom renovation takes 4-6 weeks from demolition to completion for a full gut remodel, or 2-3 weeks for a cosmetic refresh. The single biggest variable affecting your timeline is the order in which you order materials. Medicine cabinets from Tetote Home ship within 48 hours, but custom tile, fixtures, and vanities may have lead times of 2-8 weeks. The golden rule: order everything before you demo anything. This checklist helps you sequence every decision so nothing is overlooked and no trade is waiting on materials. We recommend creating a project binder with all receipts, product specs, and contact information for easy reference throughout the renovation.

Table of Contents

• 1. Planning & Budgeting
• 2. Demolition & Abatement
• 3. Plumbing Rough-In
• 4. Electrical Wiring
• 5. Drywall & Tiling
• 6. Flooring
• 7. Cabinet, Vanity & Mirror Installation
• 8. Finishing Touches

1. Planning & Budgeting

Set a realistic budget (materials 50%, labor 35%, contingency 15%). Choose your layout • moving plumbing is the biggest cost driver. Order your medicine cabinet or LED mirror early › most Tetote Home models ship within 48 hours, but confirming sizing early avoids framing mistakes.

Measure your space carefully before ordering. For a recessed medicine cabinet like the MC002 ($202.49, 735 reviews), you need the exact rough opening dimensions. For a surface-mount LED mirror like the BM054 (from $89.99, 924 reviews), measure the available wall space and choose a width 2-4 inches narrower than your vanity top. The BM054 offers 24 sizes from 28x20 to 96x36, making it the most versatile mirror for any bathroom layout.

Your budget should account for all major categories: vanity and sink (20-30%), medicine cabinet and mirror (5-10%), lighting (5-10%), plumbing fixtures (10-15%), tile and flooring (15-20%), labor (30-35%), and a 15% contingency fund for unexpected discoveries during demolition. The medicine cabinet is a relatively small percentage of the total budget but has a disproportionate impact on daily functionality. Investing in an LED model like the MC002 ($202.49) with built-in outlets and USB eliminates the need for separate mirror and light fixture purchases, potentially saving $100-200 over traditional separate components. Plan to order your cabinet or mirror early in the planning phase to ensure it arrives before the installation crew needs it. Tetote Home ships from 16 US warehouses with 3-5 day arrival and free shipping.

When creating your renovation timeline, account for permit waiting periods. Most jurisdictions take 1-3 weeks to issue permits for plumbing and electrical work. Factor this into your schedule so you are not stuck waiting for approvals after demolition has cleared the space. Check with your local building department early in the planning phase to understand what permits are required and what the inspection schedule looks like. Some municipalities require separate inspections for framing, plumbing, electrical, and final occupancy. Knowing these requirements upfront helps you sequence your trades efficiently and avoid costly delays between inspections.

2. Demolition & Abatement

Remove old vanity, mirror, lighting, and flooring. Test for asbestos if your home was built before 1980. Protect the tub and toilet with drop cloths. This phase takes 1-2 days.

Be careful when removing the old mirror • large sheets of glass can shatter unpredictably. Use mirror tape and a helper to lower it safely. This is also the time to check for water damage behind the old vanity or medicine cabinet. If you find rot or mold, address it now before closing up the walls. If you are replacing an old non-LED mirror with a modern option like the BM033 ($109.99, 463 reviews) or BM066 (from $99.99, 145 reviews), measure the existing footprint to see if you can upgrade to a larger size during the renovation.

Rent a large debris bin or schedule bulk pickup before starting demolition to avoid piles of debris accumulating in your yard or driveway. Wear proper PPE: safety glasses, gloves, a dust mask (N95 recommended), and long sleeves when removing old tile or insulation. If your home was built before 1980, hire a certified asbestos inspector before disturbing any wall materials, ceiling textures, or floor tiles. Asbestos abatement adds $500-1,500 to a renovation but is essential for safety and legal compliance. Take photos during demolition to document the wall cavity • these images are useful for planning electrical and plumbing runs and for future reference.

3. Plumbing Rough-In

Move drain, supply lines, and venting as needed. Install shut-off valves. Pressure-test all lines before closing walls. If your medicine cabinet requires recessed installation, frame the opening now.

For recessed mounting of the MC002 or MC010, the rough opening should be slightly larger than the cabinet body • typically 0.25-0.5 inches wider and taller to allow for shimming and leveling. The MC002 ($202.49) and MC010 ($189.99) both include trim flanges that cover the gap for a finished look. For surface-mount mirrors like the BM033 or BM054, no wall cutting is needed • just locate studs for secure mounting.

During the plumbing rough-in phase, also install a shut-off valve for the sink if one does not already exist. This allows you to isolate the sink water supply without shutting off water to the entire house • useful for future faucet replacements or repairs. If your medicine cabinet has integrated outlets (MC002 has 2 outlets + 2 USB, MC010 has 2 outlets), now is the time to run a dedicated 15- or 20-amp circuit to the cabinet location. The National Electrical Code requires that all bathroom outlets be GFCI-protected. Coordinate with your electrician to ensure the circuit meets current code. Installing a dedicated circuit also means you can add other bathroom fixtures to the same circuit without overloading existing wiring.

4. Electrical Wiring

Run circuits for lighting, exhaust fan, and outlets. If you chose an LED medicine cabinet with integrated outlets like the MC002 (2 outlets + 2 USB ports) or MC010 (2 outlets), no separate GFCI rough-in is needed behind the mirror. Install the junction box for hardwired units.

All LED medicine cabinets and mirrors should be connected to a GFCI-protected circuit as required by code. The MC002 and MC010 include built-in GFCI outlets for added safety. For hardwired models like the MC001 ($233.99, 441 reviews), install a junction box in the wall cavity before closing up the drywall. For plug-in models, simply route the cord to a nearby outlet.

For LED mirrors without storage like the BM054 ($89.99), BM033 ($109.99), BM066 ($99.99), or BM007 ($119.99), the power connection is straightforward • most models include a plug-in cord with an inline switch. The BM066 backlit mirror (145 reviews) features a gold or black frame option and 22 sizes. If you want a mirror with anti-fog, the BM033 (463 reviews) and BM054 (924 reviews) both include this feature. Consider adding a dedicated lighting circuit separate from outlets to install a dimmer switch. Label all circuits clearly at the breaker panel for future troubleshooting.

5. Drywall & Tiling

Hang, tape, and finish drywall. Water-resistant drywall (purple board) is recommended. Tile the shower or backsplash. Let everything cure fully • rushing leads to cracks.

If you are recessing the medicine cabinet, the drywall should be cut to fit around the cabinet opening. Install the drywall up to the edge of the rough opening, and the cabinet's trim flange will cover the seam. This creates a clean, built-in appearance without visible gaps. The MC002 and MC010 both include trim flanges for a professional finish.

For tiling, plan your layout so full tiles frame the medicine cabinet area. Partial cuts around the cabinet look unprofessional. If you are installing a surface-mount LED mirror like the BM028 dual-lit framed mirror (from $109.99, 381 reviews, Gold or Black), consider a full-height tile backsplash that extends from the counter to the bottom of the mirror • this eliminates the need for caulk at the mirror's lower edge and creates a cleaner look. The BM028 features beveled frame frontlit and backlit lighting with 17 sizes available.

6. Flooring

Install floor tile, LVP, or engineered wood. Leave expansion gaps. Protect finished flooring with ram board during cabinet and mirror installation.

For tile floors, use a layer of ram board or thick cardboard to protect the surface from scratches and dropped tools during the remaining installation phases. Porcelain tile is highly recommended for bathrooms • it has a lower water absorption rate than ceramic and better slip resistance. If installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or laminate, ensure the material is rated for bathroom use and has a waterproof core.

For heated floors (radiant heating), test the system before installing the final flooring and again after installation to ensure no heating wires were damaged during the flooring process. Radiant floor heating is a luxury addition that adds comfort and resale value, costing $500-1,000 for a typical bathroom. Allow flooring adhesive or thinset to cure fully per manufacturer instructions before walking on the surface or installing cabinets and vanities.

7. Cabinet, Vanity & Mirror Installation

Set the vanity first, then install the medicine cabinet or LED mirror. For surface-mount models like the MC002 or BM054, mark stud locations and use toggle bolts for extra support. Recessed units like the MC002 or MC010 slide into the framed opening and are secured with shims and trim. Connect power last.

The recommended height for a medicine cabinet is 72-76 inches from the floor to the top edge. For LED mirrors like the BM054, BM033, or BM066, a center height of 60-65 inches from the floor works well for most users. For family bathrooms, consider the height of the shortest user and install accordingly. The MC002's adjustable shelves mean you can optimize interior storage regardless of mounting height.

Before final installation, test-fit the medicine cabinet in the opening to confirm proper fit. For recessed installations, apply a bead of silicone caulk around the inside edge of the rough opening before sliding the cabinet in • this creates a moisture barrier. For surface-mount installations, use a level to mark a horizontal line at the desired mounting height. The MC001 Trio-Lit ($233.99, 441 reviews) features stepless dimming, Bluetooth clock, and 9 sizes • perfect for master bathrooms where premium features matter. The Round LED cabinet ($269.99, 22 reviews) is a unique statement piece available in 4 diameters (24, 26, 28, 30 inches) with a metal frame and frontlit LED.

For plug-in models, route the cord through the cord management channel and test the outlets before finalizing the mounting. The BM042 round backlit mirror (from $104.99, 72 reviews, Save 13%) and BM025 oval backlit mirror (from $119.99, 22 reviews) are surface-mount only and install in under 30 minutes. The BM026 oval frontlit mirror (from $139.99, 11 reviews) offers a distinct oval shape for powder rooms and guest bathrooms. After installation, remove all protective films from the mirror surface and test all features: lighting cycles, anti-fog, and outlet functionality.

8. Finishing Touches

Caulk all seams, install trim and baseboards, mount toilet paper holder and towel bars, then touch up paint. Run the fan for 48 hours to cure caulk and grout properly.

Use a high-quality silicone caulk (not acrylic) around the medicine cabinet edges and vanity backsplash. Silicone remains flexible and waterproof, preventing moisture from seeping behind the cabinet or mirror. Allow 24 hours cure time before exposing the caulk to water.

Install the toilet paper holder at a comfortable height • typically 26 inches from the floor. Towel bars should be installed 48-52 inches from the floor for bath towels, or 36 inches for hand towels. If you installed an LED mirror like the BM054 or BM066 with a plug-in cord, ensure the cord is neatly routed and hidden behind the mirror body. Test the 3-color lighting on your new mirror or cabinet • cycle through warm, natural, and cool white to confirm proper operation. Check that the anti-fog feature activates and clears the mirror surface within 2-3 minutes. Test all outlets and USB ports on medicine cabinet models. Walk through the entire bathroom with a critical eye before calling the renovation complete.

After the renovation is complete, create a maintenance schedule to protect your investment. Clean LED mirrors and cabinet doors with a soft microfiber cloth and non-abrasive glass cleaner. Wipe down frames with a damp cloth to remove toothpaste splatters. Check silicone caulk around edges annually and reapply if gaps appear. The LED lights in your mirror or cabinet are rated for 50,000 hours of operation and require no maintenance. Keep the anti-fog pad clean for optimal performance. Following this simple maintenance routine ensures your renovated bathroom stays beautiful for years to come.

Choosing the Right Products for Your Renovation

Each product serves different renovation needs. Here is how to choose the right LED mirror or medicine cabinet for your project:

For full bathroom renovations, the MC002 ($202.49) is the best all-around choice with 9 sizes, dual lighting, 2 outlets, 2 USB ports, and anti-fog. For budget-conscious projects, the BM054 ($89.99) provides frontlit and backlit LED lighting with 24 size options • the most versatile mirror available. The MC010 ($189.99) strikes the perfect balance for mid-range renovations requiring built-in outlets, while the MC001 ($233.99) with Trio-Lit stepless dimming and Bluetooth clock suits premium master bathroom renovations.

Consider the installation timeline when choosing. Plug-in models like the MC010 or BM054 install in under an hour without an electrician • ideal for cosmetic refreshes. Hardwired models like the MC001 and MC002 may require an electrician visit, adding 1-2 days to the schedule but delivering a cleaner look. Order early • all models ship within 48 hours from 16 US warehouses with free shipping. Having your products on-site before demo begins prevents scheduling conflicts and keeps your renovation timeline on track.

Warranty coverage provides peace of mind. All Tetote Home medicine cabinets and LED mirrors include a 3-year warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. This covers LED failure, mirror delamination, hinge malfunction, and electrical component issues. The warranty does not cover damage from improper installation, physical abuse, or unauthorized modifications. Register your product online after purchase to activate the warranty and receive product updates. The Tetote Home customer service team responds within 24 hours and can assist with installation questions, replacement parts, and warranty claims.

Shipping and delivery are designed for convenience. All orders ship within 48 hours via insured carriers with tracking numbers provided via email. The free shipping option uses standard ground transit (3-5 business days depending on location) from 16 US warehouses. Expedited shipping is available at checkout. Each product is packaged in custom foam inserts and double-walled boxes to prevent damage during transit. If your order arrives damaged, contact Tetote Home within 48 hours with photos of the damage and the outer box • they will ship a replacement immediately at no additional cost. The 30-day return policy allows you to return unused products in original packaging for a full refund minus return shipping costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I order my medicine cabinet or mirror—

Order before demo begins. Tetote Home ships within 48 hours with delivery in 3-5 days. Confirming sizing early avoids framing mistakes.

Can I install an LED mirror without a contractor—

Yes • surface-mount mirrors like the BM054, BM033, and BM066 require only a drill and level. Installation takes 30 minutes. Recessed medicine cabinets typically need a contractor for wall framing.

What is the right height for a medicine cabinet—

72-76 inches from floor to top edge is standard for adults. For LED mirrors, center height of 60-65 inches works for most users. Adjust based on household height.

Do I need a permit for a bathroom renovation—

Most jurisdictions require permits for plumbing and electrical work. Check with your local building department. Cosmetic changes like painting and swapping mirrors typically do not require permits.

How long does a full bathroom renovation take—

A full gut renovation typically takes 4-6 weeks. A cosmetic refresh (paint, fixtures, LED mirror, medicine cabinet) can be completed in 1-2 weekends.

Which LED mirrors have anti-fog—

The BM054 (924 reviews), BM033 (463 reviews), BM028 (381 reviews), and BM066 (145 reviews) all include anti-fog functionality. The BM007 and BM042 do not include this feature.

Which medicine cabinets include built-in outlets—

The MC002 ($202.49) has 2 GFCI outlets + 2 USB ports. The MC010 ($189.99) has 2 GFCI outlets. The MC001 ($233.99) has 2 outlets + 2 USB ports. The MC011 ($89.99) and Round LED cabinet ($269.99) do not include outlets.

What is the warranty coverage—

All Tetote Home products include a 3-year warranty covering manufacturing defects, LED failure, and electrical components. Free replacement for defects. Does not cover improper installation or physical damage.

Are the LED lights replaceable—

The LEDs are integrated and rated for 50,000 hours (30-45 years at average daily use). They are not user-replaceable but are covered under the 3-year warranty. LED modules can be replaced by Tetote Home service if needed after the warranty period.

Do I need an electrician for installation—

Plug-in models (MC010, BM054, BM033, BM066, BM028, BM042, BM007, BM025, BM026) require no electrician. Hardwire models (MC001, MC002) may require one if you are not comfortable with basic electrical work. The MC011 requires no electrical connection.

What sizes are available for each product—

BM054: 24 sizes from 28x20 to 96x36. BM033: 16 sizes from 32x24 to 36x72. BM028: 17 sizes from 28x20 to 36x72. BM066: 22 sizes from 28x20 to 32x72. BM007: 13 sizes from 28x20 to 36x94. BM042: 5 diameters (24-40). BM025: 2 sizes (32x24, 36x24). BM026: 2 sizes (32x24, 36x24). MC002: 9 sizes (16x24 to 48x32). MC001: 9 sizes (20x26 to 48x32). MC010: 5 sizes (16x24 to 36x30). Round LED cabinet: 4 diameters (24-30).

Find Your Perfect Bathroom Fit

Free shipping • 3-year warranty • Ships within 48 hours • 16 US warehouses