Bathroom Tiles - Buying Guide
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Bathroom Tiles: The Ultimate Buying Guide for 2024
Planning a new bathroom should feel exciting — but with so many materials, colours and styles to choose from, it can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where bathroom tiles come in. Stylish, durable and easy to maintain, tiles are the perfect solution for any bathroom design.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know before choosing your tiles — from performance benefits to colours, styles, shapes and finishes. Whether you're creating a spa-like sanctuary or a bold designer space, this buying guide will help you make the right choice.
Why Choose Bathroom Tiles?
Before diving into styles and layouts, it’s worth understanding why ceramic and porcelain tiles are the go-to choice for bathrooms in modern homes.
Are bathroom tiles waterproof?
Ceramic tiles absorb very little water, while porcelain tiles are virtually non-porous. They won’t swell, warp or crack when exposed to moisture or steam — perfect for hot showers, steamy baths and everyday family use.
Are bathroom tiles expensive?
Porcelain tiles offer the look of natural stone or marble at a fraction of the price. Thanks to advanced printing technology, it’s more difficult than ever to tell them apart from the real thing.
Are tiles on trend?
Yes — bathroom tiles are a huge interior trend on social media and in design magazines. From marble-effect slabs to handmade-look tiles, you’ll find endless stylish options.
Can tiles be used with underfloor heating?
Absolutely. Tiles conduct heat extremely well and will not react to temperature changes, unlike timber or vinyl flooring.
Are tiles easy to clean?
Porcelain and ceramic tiles resist stains and spills. Most dirt can be removed with a simple wipe or mop, making them ideal for busy households.
How durable are bathroom tiles?
Porcelain tiles are incredibly strong and long-lasting, making them perfect for high-traffic bathrooms and family homes.
Where Can You Use Tiles in a Bathroom?
Because bathroom tiles are so versatile, they can be used almost anywhere:
Bathroom Floors
Porcelain tiles are the best choice for floors thanks to their strength, waterproofing and durability.
Bathroom Walls
Ceramic and porcelain wall tiles are stylish, easy to clean and available in thousands of designs.
Splashbacks
Ideal for sinks and vanities — small areas where bold colours or shapes can create a big impact.
Patterned tiles or textured surfaces make stunning focal points behind freestanding baths or in shower enclosures.
Wet Rooms
Porcelain tiles are completely waterproof, making them perfect for seamless wetroom installations.
Bath Panels
Tiling the front of your bath adds a designer finish and helps unify the space.
Tip: Floor tiles can often be used on walls, but wall tiles are generally not strong enough for floors.
Popular Bathroom Design Styles
Your tile choice will define your bathroom’s character. Here are some of the most popular styles:
Contemporary Bathrooms
Neutral large-format tiles create a calming, spa-like atmosphere with clean lines and timeless appeal.
White Marble Bathrooms
Bright, elegant and luxurious. Marble-effect tiles work beautifully with both modern and traditional fittings.
Vintage Bathrooms
Achieve a charming retro look by pairing black-and-white floors with classic metro wall tiles.
Hotel-Style Bathrooms
Marble-look porcelain in soft pinks, beiges or greys offers a premium, five-star aesthetic.
Timeless Bathrooms
Stone-effect tiles in warm neutrals create a serene, versatile bathroom that never goes out of style.
Moroccan Bathrooms
Colourful patterns, zellige-style tiles and rustic surfaces bring character and texture to small bathrooms.
Designer Bathrooms
Terrazzo tiles make bold, contemporary statements — perfect for feature walls or floors.
Cottagecore Bathrooms
Soft earthy colours and natural textures create a cosy and soothing escape.
Stylish Bathrooms
Long-format subway tiles in deep greens or blues deliver a modern twist on classic metro tiles.
Popular Bathroom Tile Colours
Choosing the right colour palette can completely transform how your bathroom feels.
Calming, refreshing and perfect for bathrooms. Light blues brighten smaller rooms; dark navy adds drama.
A favourite in modern interiors. Green tiles feel fresh, natural and ideal for relaxing bathroom spaces.
A major trend. From soft blush tones to statement pink marble, pink tiles bring warmth and personality.
A timeless neutral that creates a soft, warm and calming environment.
Bold and sophisticated. Black tiles turn small bathrooms into glamorous, boutique-style spaces.
Brighten any bathroom and make small rooms feel larger. White marble-effect tiles add instant luxury.
Modern and versatile. Grey tiles can be moody and dramatic or soft and serene depending on the shade.
Choosing Tile Shapes and Sizes
Tile shape and size dramatically influence your finished bathroom.
The most popular choice for walls and floors. From 30×60 cm wall tiles to 60×120 cm slabs, rectangles offer crisp modern styling.
Metro Tiles
Classic, bevel-edged tiles that work beautifully in traditional or budget-friendly renovations.
Square Tiles
Perfect for both walls and floors. Large square tiles reduce grout lines; small squares work well for splashbacks.
Fishscale Tiles
Decorative and eye-catching. Ideal for feature walls or sink splashbacks.
Wood-effect planks bring warmth and character. Great for herringbone layouts in larger bathrooms.
Hexagon Tiles
Geometric and modern. Use patterned hexagons to zone areas or create a striking feature wall.
Metro tiles and mosaics add detail and work perfectly in small areas like showers or behind basins.
Large Tiles
Reduce grout lines and make small bathrooms appear much bigger. Ideal for luxury marble or concrete effects.
Versatile, practical and stylish. Often used for wetroom floors due to their natural grip.
What’s the Best Tile Finish for a Bathroom?
The finish you choose affects the overall feel and practicality of your bathroom.
Soft, understated and great for contemporary spaces. Ideal for floors due to better slip resistance.
Reflects light beautifully and adds luxury. Perfect for walls and feature areas.
Textured Finish
Provides extra grip on floors and adds depth and interest to walls.
Crackle Glaze
Traditional and charming. Some require sealing, but printed crackle styles offer the look without the maintenance.