Home Design & Decorating Feng Shui

Is a Mirror Facing the Front Door Bad Feng Shui?

Rounded mirror in front of front door entranceway

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

Is a door-facing mirror problematic according to feng shui rules? Most people have read or heard somewhere that this setup is always bad feng shui. Remember that there are many viewpoints on various aspects of feng shui design. Nothing is always wrong or a feng shui mistake. One practitioner may say that a mirror facing the front door is a no-no, while some might disagree and even recommend it for particular situations.

The best advice is to consider the different schools of feng shui, a feng shui consultant's recommendations, and your gut feeling before placing a mirror near a front door entranceway.

Mirrors, Front Doors, and Feng Shui

All feng shui schools agree that the front door of your home is an important area. It’s called the “mouth of qi (chi)” because the entry is how energy and qi (life force) enter a space. 

Classical schools tend to recommend against a mirror facing the front door since it reflects energy outside or pushes away energy rather than welcoming qi into the home. 

Mirrors in other schools like BTB (Black Sect) expand the space energetically. A mirror can expand a small, cramped entry and make it look and feel larger. Or a well-placed mirror (even in the entry) can invite elemental energies with a reflection of nature. From this perspective, a mirror facing the front door summons rather than pushes away. So, where does that leave you? Is a mirror facing the front door bad feng shui?

If you’re worried about it, correct it. It is good feng shui to feel good and safe in your home. Do not remain shrouded in doubt. It doesn’t matter if one school says this or another school says that. Pay attention to and honor your feelings. If you care for your home with mindfulness and love, it will nurture and love you back.

Tips to Adjust a Mirror Facing the Front Door

If you choose to adjust it, here are some examples of how to correct a mirror facing the front door.

Remove the Mirror

The simplest solution is to move the mirror so it's no longer facing the front door. There are countless ways to use mirrors to create good feng shui. And not everything needs to be a feng shui correction. If you like it, you can relocate it elsewhere. Feel free to offer it to a loved one or donate it if it's no longer needed.

Adjust the Mirror

Adjusting the mirror is an easy solution. A slight adjustment can change the angle so the mirror is no longer in line with the door. It’s OK to have a mirror near or in the entry. The iffy part is when it’s directly reflecting the view of the door. 

Cover the Mirror

Sometimes, you can’t move the mirror. Maybe it’s fastened to the wall permanently, or you’re in a rental. Whatever the reason, get creative and cover it. Covers can include fabric, paper, decals, frosted film, and paint. Let your imagination run wild. Have fun with it and enjoy it.

Block the Reflection

You can obscure the reflection by placing an object in front of the mirror. Again, there are many options, like putting a plant, furniture, or other object in front of the mirror. 

If you choose this route, be sure you have a spacious foyer. Ideally, you want to maintain at least six feet of open, clear space in front of the door. Do not create a tight front door entry because that creates challenging feng shui.

FAQ
  • Why put a mirror in the entryway?

    Interior designers put mirrors in an entryway to make a space feel larger or help reflect more light into the rest of the home.

  • Where should mirrors be placed for good luck?

    Mirrors are best placed near items of beauty, such as lush nature, nice artwork, or room-refreshing light from nearby windows.

  • Where is a good place to hang a decorative mirror in your home?

    Appropriate spots for a decorative mirror include over a fireplace, near a bright window, behind a couch, or over a buffet.