How to Choose the Perfect Bathroom Tile: A Complete Guide
As I prepare for my master bathroom renovation, I am most excited about pickout out bathroom tiles. To some it may seem like a small detail, but tile can determine the overall look, feel, and functionality of your bathroom. With countless styles, materials, and patterns available, selecting the right tile was challenging and a guide would’ve really helped me make decisions more confidently. So, this guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider—from choosing the right material to exploring the best colors and patterns—ensuring your bathroom looks stunning and lasts for years.
Consider the Functionality of Each Tile Type
The first step is understanding the different tile materials and their suitability for bathroom use. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:
Ceramic Tile
I ultimately chose ceramic tile for its durability and water-resistance. Ceramic tile is ideal for walls and floors and it’s budget-friendly. It comes in an array of colors and patterns, making it versatile for nearly any style.
Porcelain Tile
I chose Porcelain tiles for my bathroom floor – it’s more durable and dense than ceramic, making them excellent for high-traffic bathrooms and areas. They’re highly water-resistant, which makes them a great option for floors, walls, and shower areas.
Glass Tile
Glass tiles bring a beautiful, reflective quality to bathrooms, making small spaces appear larger. They’re perfect for backsplashes or accent walls but can be more prone to cracking and chipping, so they’re not the best choice for flooring.
Natural Stone Tile
Marble, granite, and travertine tiles add luxury and elegance to a bathroom. However, stone is more porous and requires regular sealing to prevent stains, so it may not be ideal for every space.
Vinyl Tile
Affordable and easy to install, vinyl tile has come a long way in design and durability. It’s water-resistant and available in a range of designs that mimic more expensive materials, making it a great budget option.
Determine Your Budget
Tile costs vary widely depending on material, size, and style, and where you buy. After months of researching tile pricing, I found the Floor & Decor has some of the best pricing around (and tos of styles). Ceramic and porcelain are generally more affordable, while natural stone can be pricier. Keep in mind that there are additional costs for installation/labor, grout, sealant, and maintenance. To stay on budget, I went with this herringbone tile for the floor and used this chic and affordable artisan oyster ceramic tile for the bathtub wall.
Pick a Color Scheme
Light and Neutral Colors
Whites, creams, and light grays create a clean, airy look and can make small bathrooms feel larger, which is what we wanted for our master bathroom. They’re also versatile, pairing well with various decor styles and color accents.
Tile color can influence the entire feel of your bathroom. Consider these ideas when selecting your tile color
Dark and Moody Tones
Charcoal, navy, or deep green can bring sophistication and warmth to a bathroom. Dark colors work best in larger spaces or as accent tiles in smaller bathrooms.
Bright Colors and Patterns
For a bold statement, try vibrant blues, greens, or even patterned tiles. They add personality and are best suited for feature walls, backsplashes, or smaller powder rooms where you want to make a design impact.
Choose the Right Tile Size
Tile size can impact how a bathroom looks and feels. Here’s a quick guide:
Large Tiles
Large-format tiles, such as 12×24 inches, can make a small bathroom appear bigger by reducing the number of grout lines. These tiles are ideal for floors and shower walls.
Small Tiles
Mosaic tiles are great for intricate designs and work well on shower floors because they provide slip resistance. Small tiles also add visual texture, making them a good choice for backsplashes or accent walls.
Subway Tiles
Classic subway tiles (usually 3×6 inches) are timeless and versatile. They can be installed in various patterns—like herringbone or stacked—for different looks. Subway tiles are popular for walls and look great in both modern and traditional bathrooms.
Evaluate Tile Durability and Maintenance
Not all tiles are created equal when it comes to durability and maintenance. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
Porosity
In bathrooms, opt for tiles with low porosity to prevent water absorption, which can lead to mold or mildew. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are highly resistant to water, while natural stone is more porous and requires regular sealing.
Slip Resistance
Bathroom floors can be slippery, so choose a tile with some slip resistance. Textured or matte tiles tend to offer better traction than glossy finishes, making them a safer choice for floors.
Ease of Cleaning
Tiles with smooth, glazed finishes are generally easier to clean than textured or matte surfaces. Large tiles with fewer grout lines also reduce cleaning time. Be cautious with intricate designs or natural stone, which can require more maintenance.
Choose a Layout and Pattern
The way you lay your tiles can add character and dimension to your bathroom. For me this was the most important decision and took the most time to decide.
Our previous tile flooring was Hexagon-shape and although a popular choice, I wanted something completely different. Originally, I thought I wanted a unique pennytile circular shape, but ultimately fell in love with herringbone.
Here are some popular tile patterns to consider:
Herringbone
We installed rectangular tiles in a zigzag pattern, otherwise known as Herringbone. It creates a classic look without neglecting charm, elegance, and character.
Stacked or Straight Lay
This pattern creates a modern, clean look and is often used with large-format tiles. It’s simple but effective in creating a sleek and seamless design.
Brick Bond or Offset
This pattern mimics the look of brick walls, with each row of tiles offset from the one below. It’s traditional and gives the space a warm, welcoming feel.
Basket Weave or Hexagon Patterns
These intricate patterns are great for feature areas, like floors or shower niches, and add a unique touch to any bathroom.
Select a Grout Color
Grout is more than a functional necessity; it’s also a design element that can enhance or diminish the look of your tiles. Here’s how to choose the best grout color:
Matching Grout
A grout color that matches the tile will create a seamless look, making the tile itself the focal point. It’s often used with large tiles or when you want a clean, uninterrupted surface.
Contrasting Grout
Choosing a grout color that contrasts with your tile creates definition, emphasizing the tile’s shape and layout. For example, white subway tiles with dark grout lines create a bold, modern look.
Neutral Grout
Gray or beige grout is a versatile choice that won’t clash with most tile colors. It’s also practical, as it hides stains better than white grout.
Think About the Future
Trendy tiles may be tempting, but consider how your choice will hold up over time. Classic colors and simple patterns are less likely to go out of style, ensuring your bathroom looks timeless even years down the line. If you’re drawn to trendy colors or patterns, use them as accents rather than for the entire bathroom.
Consider Professional Installation
Bathroom tile installation requires precision and can be challenging, especially with intricate patterns like herringbone. A professional installer can ensure your tiles are laid correctly, making your investment worthwhile. If you plan to DIY (not me!), be sure to research thoroughly and use quality materials for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Choosing bathroom tile is a fun, creative process that allows you to personalize your space while keeping functionality in mind. By considering factors like material, color, size, durability, and layout, you can create a bathroom that is both beautiful and practical.Tile is often the focal point of a bathroom, so take your time to select one that reflects your style and meets your needs. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to designing a bathroom that you’ll love for years to come.
