Matt vs glossy tiles: which are best for your shower

If you are keen to renovate the shower area in your bathroom, the tile finish you choose should play a key part in your design process. Functionality is a critical consideration in a room prone to wet, humid conditions — you'll need to ensure your tiles are slip-resistant, especially underfoot. There are essentially two finishes when it comes to bathroom tiles — matt and high gloss — and each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages.

The Pros and Cons of Matt Tiles for Shower Areas

Pros

Non-Reflective Finish

Gloss tiles may bounce more light around your bathroom, whereas matt tiles provide a non-reflective finish. This can be ideal if you're looking for less shine and a more natural, organic look. This warmth and texture can be perfect if you want your bathroom to feel inviting even in winter months.

Better Grip and Slip Resistance

Safety should always take priority when it comes to shower floors. A high gloss finish can be dangerously slippery when wet, whereas matt tiles provide a decent grip — vital for family households and elderly homeowners where safety is paramount. Look for an R10 or R11 slip rating when specifying floor tiles for shower areas.

Hides Watermarks

If you live in a hard water area and can't stand watermarks, it's best to avoid gloss tiles in a shower area. Fingerprints can also be an issue with glossy finishes. A matt finish helps keep wall tiles looking cleaner between cleans, and suits bathrooms with a modern, sleek aesthetic.

Cons

Potential for Staining

Matt tiles can stain or discolour — especially if they aren't sealed properly or you live in a hard water area with high mineral content. You can counteract this with a water softener system or a shower head filter, and by ensuring tiles are sealed before grouting.

Regular Cleaning Still Required

Matt tiles still need regular cleaning and dirt can actually be more noticeable on a matt surface than a gloss one. If low maintenance is a priority, it's worth weighing this carefully before committing to a matt finish throughout.

Less Light Reflection

Compared to gloss tiles, a matt finish will make your bathroom feel slightly darker. You won't benefit from light bouncing around the room, which could make your shower area feel less spacious — something to consider carefully in a particularly small bathroom where you want to create the illusion of more space.

The Pros and Cons of Gloss Tiles for Shower Areas

Pros

More Light Reflection

If space is at a premium in your shower room, wall tiles with a glossy finish will help to reflect light around the space — instantly making your shower feel bigger and brighter. This is one of the most effective ways to open up a compact bathroom without structural changes.

Durability and Stain Resistance

Gloss bathroom tiles are generally less likely to stain or discolour compared to matt tiles. Style-wise, they can look super-luxurious on walls. Pair gloss wall tiles with matt floor tiles to get the best of both worlds — the visual lightness of gloss on walls with the grip and safety of matt underfoot.

Low Maintenance

Gloss tiles don't show dirt as readily as their matt counterparts and, with a sleek appearance, are available in a huge collection of colours. The result is a low-maintenance bathroom that looks perfect for years to come. Spanish brand Porcelanosa tiles are a great starting point if you're after large-format gloss designs with real designer pedigree.

Cons

Poor Slip Resistance

Avoid using gloss bathroom tiles on a shower floor — this finish can be dangerously slippery when damp. This applies especially to elderly users, young children, or anyone planning to future-proof their home. Always use matt or textured tiles with an R10 or R11 slip rating on shower floors.

Shows Watermarks and Fingerprints

High gloss bathroom tiles will show watermarks, fingerprints, and smudges more readily than matt tiles. In a shower environment, this means more frequent cleaning to keep them looking pristine. If time tends to be tight, this is worth factoring into your decision.

Can Feel Cold

Although a reflective finish can help in smaller shower areas, it can make a larger bathroom feel cold and clinical — especially if you're predominantly using white. In a generous, north-facing room, a matt or stone-effect finish may create a more welcoming atmosphere.

Matt vs Gloss: At a Glance

Choosing the Right Tile Size for Your Shower

Tile size for your shower walls essentially depends on the look you want to create. A mosaic tile can add a striking feature wall, while large-format designer tiles deliver a more streamlined, contemporary result. They are also easier to clean and, whether you choose matt or gloss, tile size can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetic of a bespoke bathroom.

How to Maintain Your Shower Tiles

• Clean regularly: We recommend cleaning shower tiles at least weekly to keep them in top condition. Use a mild cleaning detergent, a soft-bristled brush, then a microfibre cloth to dry — avoid abrasive tools or harsh chemicals.
• Use a daily squeegee: After every shower, run a squeegee over your tiles and shower screen to prevent build-up of soap and water stains.
• Seal your grout: Apply a grout sealer on a six-monthly basis to keep it looking its best — otherwise grout can absorb water and become discoloured over time.
• Remove mildew promptly: Mould and mildew are harmful and will damage your tiles. Use a dedicated cleaner and keep your bathroom well ventilated as a preventative measure.

Making Your Decision

As you can see, choosing between matt and gloss tiles involves a variety of considerations — from safety and light levels to maintenance and aesthetics. Think about your individual needs first: the size and aspect of your bathroom, who uses it, and how much time you're willing to spend on upkeep. If you need more expert advice, call our helpful team on 01344 620211 or visit us at our Ascot showroom.