27 things to consider when selecting bathroom tiles

When it comes to bathroom tiles, they’re more than just functional – they set the tone for your entire space. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, modern look or a natural, textured feel, choosing the right bathroom tiles can elevate the ambiance of your bathroom. But with so many options (big or small, light or dark, traditional or contemporary, etc.), it can quickly become overwhelming.

Beyond aesthetics, you also need to consider the material, as it impacts durability and maintenance. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the key things to consider when choosing bathroom tiles to help you make the best choices for your bathroom.

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How to choose bathroom tiles: 17 key things to consider

Below are the steps and tips on how to choose bathroom tiles that suit your style:

1. Set a budget (and stick to it!)

Before you start dreaming of marble floors, let’s talk numbers. Your budget will impact your tile choices.

From the fancy natural stones to the wallet-friendly ceramics, there’s a wide range to choose from, and don’t forget to budget for samples – yes, actual samples! Because nothing’s worse than getting 30-40 square feet of tile delivered only to realise it clashes with your existing bathroom elements. Thus, leading to unnecessary expenses and wasted money.

2. Find your style

Choosing the right bathroom tiles is like picking an outfit – you want to look good, but you don’t want to try too hard.

Quality is important. But let’s face it – if the design makes you cringe, no amount of quality is going to save it. Think about the vibe you are aiming for. Do you want something sleek and modern? Cosy and rustic?

Whatever it is, go for a tile that complements the rest of your space. And don’t be afraid to get creative! Hop on Pinterest, create mood boards, and find the overall feel and look that matches your style most. Just remember: you’re designing a bathroom, not an art gallery.

3. Create a colour palette

Stick to a colour palette, so you don’t end up with a clown bathroom.

Two to three colours is a good rule of thumb. This isn’t your chance to use every shade from the paint store. Too much contrast and you’ll have a bathroom that feels like it’s screaming at you.

Pro Tip: If you’re going for a patterned tile, choose one colour from it and let that lead your other choices. You want harmony, not a kaleidoscope.

4. Pick a must-have bathroom tile

Choose a must-have tile that steals the show.

Everyone has that dream tile. Maybe it’s a funky accent piece, or maybe you’re obsessed with classic subway tiles (no shame in that game!). Start with your must-have tile and build the rest around it. Think of this tile as your bathroom’s main character. Once you have your mush-have tile in place, everything else – your floor, your walls – will come together. 

5. Don’t exceed three different tiles

“How many different tiles should I use in a bathroom?” This is a very common question when it comes to bathroom design.

The golden rule? Three tiles. Any more, and your bathroom may start resembling a tile showroom gone wrong. You’ll usually need one for the floor, one for the shower or tub walls, and maybe a special accent tile.

Going beyond that, you risk creating a space that’s visually overwhelming. So, keep it to three. Feel free to mix up the sizes and textures to add personality without going overboard. Simplicity can still be stunning!

6. Choose the right bathroom tile material

As we’ve said, choosing the right material for your bathroom tiles is like picking the perfect outfit – you need something that looks good but also holds up to daily wear and tear. Of course, this includes the occasional splash from your shower. To help you choose the right material, we will break down the pros and cons of the top bathroom tile materials below.

Natural stone bathroom tiles: Divas of bathroom materials

Natural stone tiles are like the designer handbags of bathroom materials – luxurious and full of character, but you’ve got to treat them with care.

Limestone, marble, slate, and travertine each have their own unique flair, but they also come with a higher maintenance bill. These tiles need to be resealed regularly, much like how you’d pamper your favourite leather boots with polish.

Limestone: It’s stylish, but a bit of a softie. This stone can scratch easily, so maybe save it for your ensuite rather than a high-traffic family bathroom.

Marble: The fashionista of tiles, marble offers a stunning and sophisticated look with its vein patterns. Tip: While suitable for walls and floors, you should avoid polished marble on floors due to slip risks. 

Slate: Dark, dramatic, and slip-resistant, making it a great choice for those who need a bit more grip. Just try not to go overboard – you don’t want your bathroom looking like a cave.

Travertine: Comes in warm tones with natural pits that make each tile unique. But, you should go for filled travertine instead of stones with natural pits to prevent water from penetrating.

Man-made bathroom tiles: Practical and budget-friendly options

If natural stone is a bit too high-maintenance and expensive for your taste, then man-made tiles are for you. They are affordable, durable, and versatile. And while they don’t have the same charm as natural materials, they’re much easier to take care of.

Porcelain: Tougher than ceramics, porcelain tiles are incredibly hardwearing and perfect for both walls and floors.

Ceramic: A bit more affordable and less durable than porcelain, but still a solid choice for low-traffic bathrooms. Just make sure you check that the ceramic tiles you choose are floor-friendly.

Gloss: Perfect for smaller bathrooms since they reflect light and make the space feel bigger. But be prepared for constant cleaning (every smear and smudge will be on display).

Matt: These don’t show watermarks as easily as gloss tiles. Some even mimic natural materials like stone to give you that luxe look without the high-maintenance commitment.

3 important things to consider when choosing the right bathroom tile material: A summary

Maintenance: Some materials, especially natural stones, are more prone to staining and moisture. So if you’re not into constant upkeep, it’s probably best to avoid those. Stick to porcelain and ceramic for easy living.

Bathroom traffic: Think about how many people use your bathroom. A high-traffic family bathroom? Go for something durable like porcelain. A cosy ensuite? You’ve got more flexibility to choose something stylish like limestone.

Shower walls: For the shower, you want tiles that are easy to clean. Ceramic or porcelain tiles are ideal here. And don’t forget the accent tiles – they’re your chance to get a little wild!

How to choose tiles for bathroom floors

Skip the shiny finishes and opt for textured tiles or smaller formats with more grout lines to prevent slips. Natural stone tiles are beautiful but need sealing to avoid looking dingy. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are easy to clean and can provide extra grip. Smaller tiles with more grout lines mean a safer bathroom and fewer chances for an unexpected splash!

How to choose tiles for shower walls

For easy-to-clean shower walls, go with porcelain or ceramic tiles (just double-check if they need sealing). Don’t forget to jazz things up with accent tiles. They’re a great way to get creative since they’re usually placed higher up.

7. Choose your tile colour

Colour sets the mood in your bathroom:

• Light tiles create an airy feel and can make your bathroom feel bigger

• Dark shades offer cosy intimacy

If you have natural light, dark tiles can work. But in dim spaces, stick to lighter hues for warmth. Just be warned: light colours love to showcase dust, while dark ones are the stealthy ninjas of dirt.

Feeling bold? Go for a standout colour or a feature wall, but keep it simple. Too many bright colours can turn your bathroom into an art exhibit. Pair your main colour with one or two neutral accents to keep things cohesive and stylish.

8. Take tile size into account

When it comes to bathroom tile size, the golden rule is to choose wisely, especially in smaller bathrooms which seem to be the trend these days.

Tips for choosing bathroom tiles for small bathrooms

They say stick to medium-sized tiles or mosaics for smaller spaces because large tiles can make things feel cramped. But hold on! Those oversized beauties can also create the illusion of more space with fewer grout lines (that are easier to clean), making your bathroom feel airier.

But if you adore tiny tiles, you can mix them with larger ones for depth and character. Just remember to go for glossy finishes and light colours to reflect light and open up the space.

How to pick tiles for bigger bathrooms

For bigger bathrooms, you can play with both large and small tiles. Use larger tiles for the floor and smaller versions in the shower for a cohesive, slip-resistant design.

9. Spice it up with tile patterns and textures

Patterns can transform a boring wall into a showstopper, whether it’s a bold feature wall or a cosy nook behind your sink.

Why stick to plain tiles when you can jazz things up? Think colour, shape, and texture – the possibilities are endless!

Here are a few tips on how to pick bathroom tiles with patterns:

• For a spa-like oasis, consider stone effect tiles, slate, travertine, and marble effects that can give you that serene vibe. Pair these with warm wood tones for a soothing, zen-like finish.

• Use stone tiles that have that natural flair and interesting textures and mix in some smooth tiles for a dynamic contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, mosaics can serve as a chic border.

10. Decide how you will lay out your bathroom tiles

How you lay those tiles can completely change your bathroom’s vibe! For instance, a simple rectangle can transform into a stunning herringbone design that screams luxury.

Other bathroom tile layout ideas you can try:

• For larger spaces, tile halfway up the wall and paint the rest for flair and practicality. This trick also creates an illusion of height, just like vertical stripes do!

• Wood-effect tiles can add a rustic touch, while classic black-and-white tiles create a chic checkered pattern.

• Want to stand out? Mosaic tiles can create fun designs. Just ensure your wall and floor tiles coordinate for a harmonious look!

Make your bath a showpiece!

If your tub is against a wall, consider a tiled area around it to make it pop. Simple white or travertine tiles can highlight the space while preventing splashes.

Tips for laying out tiles in small bathrooms

In a small bathroom, layout tricks can create a sense of space:

• A diagonal pattern draws the eye, while chevron and herringbone designs work wonders too.

• Prefer subtlety? Brick bond patterns break up the grid nicely.

Even plain tiles can shine with creative layouts. For small bathrooms, metallic or glossy finishes can elevate the look – because small can definitely be grand!

11. Consider the feel factor

When choosing bathroom tiles, consider how they feel underfoot, especially on a shower floor. You want comfort without the slip-and-slide routine. Opt for small or mosaic tiles; their extra grout lines provide grip while being gentle on your tootsies.

12. Factor in bathroom size when picking tiles

Before you go tile shopping, measure your walls and floors to determine how many tiles you need. For floors, multiply the width by the length, and do the same for walls with width and height. Don’t forget to account for windows, doors, or any other obstacles. No one wants to tile around the toilet like it’s an obstacle course!

Pro Tip: As a golden rule, buy 5-10% more tiles than you think you need to cover any mishaps.

13. Keep tile maintenance in mind

Consider long-term practicalities and tile maintenance before you choose bathroom tiles:

• Smooth tiles, like glazed ceramic or porcelain, make cleaning a breeze.

• Heavily embossed or natural stone tiles with dips and crevices require a rigorous cleaning regimen.

• Natural stone tiles that are rougher trap dirt easier and are prone to stains.

• Glossy tiles may dazzle but can turn into a nightmare when it comes to cleaning compared to their matte counterparts.

14. Consider slip-resistance to avoid accidents

When picking bathroom floor tiles, remember that comfort matters. Your feet shouldn’t feel like they’re walking on hot coals! Smaller tiles offer more grout lines for slip resistance (and a foot-friendly experience). On the other hand, heavily textured tiles offer greater resistance, but they can be very uncomfortable!

15. Choose the right grout

Choosing the right grout colour can transform it from a functional necessity into a stylish statement.

Grout isn’t just a white thing in the background anymore. It can also take centre stage in your bathroom design! 

How to choose the right grout for your bathroom tiles

Dark grout with white tiles? Now that’s a power couple! You can even create an illusion of space by matching grout with tile colours for a seamless look.

Feeling bold? Go for a colourful grout to add pizzazz. The more contrast you have between your grout and tile colour, the more your tiles will be highlighted and this can create a more dramatic effect. Want a bright and airy vibe? Light grout is your best friend. And if your life’s too chaotic for constant cleaning, dark grout hides stains like a pro!

Pro Tip: Make sure to choose the right adhesive and grout for your tile and the surface you’re installing them onto. Always opt for mould-resistant grout.

16. Choose your bathroom's focal point

What’s the star of your bathroom show? Is it a stunning shower or a vintage tub that dreams are made of? Decide on your focal point early, and then choose tiles that complement it. A little pre-planning will save you from tile-related heartbreak later!

17. Make your shower enclosure walls unique

Your shower enclosure walls don’t have to play by the same rules as the rest of your bathroom. Feel free to get creative with colours and materials! Light blues and contrasting blacks and whites can give your shower a chic twist.

3 more tips on how to pick tiles for bathroom

Ditch the trends: Just because something’s trendy doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Use trends for inspiration – colours, textures, and shapes – but make it uniquely yours! Your bathroom should reflect your style, not just Pinterest’s latest obsession.

Embrace the extraordinary: A single tile won’t show you the full picture! Create a mood board and use a tile visualiser to see how everything works together. And don’t forget to grab a physical sample. It’s like dating before committing!

How to pick bathroom tiles: To match or not to match: Who says wall and floor tiles have to be twins? Matching tiles can make your bathroom feel spacious and open, while contrasting tiles can create a stylish boundary.

Designers often go for uniformity, but why not mix it up? Pairing different tiles is a sure-fire way to add flair. Just remember: choose slip-resistant tiles for the floor!

Extra tips for choosing bathroom tiles

If you fancy glossy wall tiles but don’t want to turn your floor into an ice rink, look for a matte finish in the same tile range. You can even switch up the format: square tiles for the floor and rectangular ones for the walls add a playful twist.

Other practical considerations

Consider who will use the space. The elderly will benefit from slip-resistant tiles. Also, think about wall coverage. Do you need tiles on every wall or just in splash zones? If you’re going for fewer tiles, make them statement pieces to draw the eye!

7 bathroom floor tile ideas for inspiration

If your budget allows for a splurge, here are seven luxurious bathroom tile ideas to help you get started:

Opt for high-quality finishes: Mixing textures like smooth brass with glossy marble adds instant sophistication. Try holographic tiles for a show-stopping look, or opt for matte white marble for a classic, modern twist.

Explore wood-effect bathroom tiles: Wood in the bathroom? Yes, please! Porcelain and ceramic tiles now mimic rustic wood without the mildew risks. Enjoy the charm of oak or weathered looks, all without the bear cave vibes.

Mix & match Metro tiles: Metro tiles are getting a colourful makeover! Swap classic whites for bold hues and funky patterns. Let your creativity flow. Your bathroom deserves to be a masterpiece!

3D bathroom tiles for a stunning upgrade: Say goodbye to standard tiles! Explore 3D tiles that bring unique designs and add movement and fun. From subtle to striking, they’ll make your bathroom anything but ordinary.

Explore patterned bathroom tiles: Patterned tiles are like confetti for your bathroom! Bright or soft shades can add character and whimsy. Encaustic and mosaic designs are trending, making a splash this year.

Go all out with tiled baths: Tiled baths are back and better than ever! Inspired by luxury spas, they offer natural or extravagant finishes. From marble to neon graphics, tiles make bath-time a joy.

Think neutrals are dull? Think again: Neutrals are having a modern revival! Creams, beiges, and greys create calming atmospheres. Pairing classic whites and blacks adds timeless elegance. Never underestimate the power of neutrals!

Transform your bathroom into a stylish yet practical space with Nero Tapware’s diverse selection of bathroom tapware, including Mecca Care, Opal, Bianca, and more! Explore our range of styles and finishes designed to enhance functionality. Reach out to us today!