Selecting the right wall tiles for your bathroom can transform your space from ordinary to extraordinary. With countless materials, sizes, colours, and finishes available, choosing bathroom tiles requires careful consideration of both aesthetics and practicality. Whether you’re renovating an existing bathroom or creating your dream bathroom from scratch, understanding your options will help you make informed decisions that suit your style, budget, and lifestyle needs.
Our comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about bathroom tiles, from the most durable materials to the latest design trends. We’ll help you navigate the wide selection of options available and create a beautiful, functional space that stands the test of time.
Our brand-new Sierra Porcelain Textured tiles look stunning on this bathroom wall. With their soft neutral tones and subtle textured finish, these porcelain tiles bring a calm, contemporary feel—perfect for creating a spa-like retreat at home
Key points
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are the most popular and durable choices for bathroom walls, offering excellent moisture resistance and longevity. Wall tiles may range from £10-£60 per square metre depending on material and finish, making it essential to balance quality with budget considerations.
Popular sizes include metro tiles, 300x600mm rectangles, and large format tiles up to 600x1200mm, each creating different visual effects. Gloss finishes reflect light and make small bathrooms appear larger, while matt finishes hide water spots and provide contemporary elegance.
White, grey, and beige remain the most versatile colour choices for bathroom walls (and floors), offering timeless appeal that works with various décor styles. When selecting bathroom tiles, consider moisture resistance, ease of cleaning, and slip resistant properties to ensure both beauty and practicality.
Our new Aztec Pink & White Shower Panel makes a bold style statement on this wall. With its vibrant geometric design and sleek, waterproof finish, this modern panel combines eye-catching pattern with low-maintenance practicality—ideal for a standout shower space
Best materials for wall tiles
Choosing the right material for your bathroom tiles is crucial for both performance and appearance. Each material offers unique benefits and considerations that affect durability, maintenance, and cost.
Porcelain tiles offer superior water resistance
Our new Foundry Novo Irish Green tiles bring rich colour and contemporary style to this bathroom wall. Crafted from durable porcelain with a sleek, polished finish, these striking tiles add a luxurious, modern edge to any bathroom design
Porcelain tiles represent the premium choice for bathroom spaces, fired at temperatures exceeding 1200°C to create an incredibly dense, water-resistant surface. With water absorption rates under 0.5%, these tiles excel in high-moisture environments like shower enclosures and steam rooms.
The durability of porcelain makes it suitable for both wall and floor applications. While porcelain tiles typically cost around £25-£60 per square metre, their longevity and low maintenance requirements make them a smart long-term investment for your bathroom renovation.
Ceramic tiles are lighter and budget-friendly
Ceramic tiles provide an excellent balance of performance and affordability for wall applications. Fired at lower temperatures than porcelain, ceramic tiles are lighter and easier to cut, making them popular for DIY installations. These tiles typically range from £10-£30 per square metre, making them accessible for various budget levels.
While ceramic tiles have slightly higher water absorption than porcelain, quality glazed ceramics still provide excellent moisture protection for bathroom walls. They’re particularly well-suited for areas with less direct water contact, such as vanity surrounds and general wall coverage.
Natural stone tiles provide luxury appeal
Our Carrara White Marble tiles bring luxurious style to these walls. This elegant design with the honed marble finish offers a soft, natural sheen. Each bathroom tile is a one-of-a-kind, showcasing swirling veins and subtle colour variation that bring depth and character to any bathroom
Natural stone tiles, like marble and travertine, bring unmatched elegance and unique character to bathroom spaces. Each piece features distinct veining and colours that create a one-of-a-kind appearance. Marble effect tiles offer similar luxury aesthetics without the maintenance demands of natural stone.
However, natural stone requires regular sealing to prevent staining and water damage. Costs typically range from £40-£100+ per square metre, reflecting both material quality and installation complexity. Stone tiles work beautifully as feature walls or in powder rooms where water exposure is minimal.
Glass tiles create stunning reflective surfaces
Glass tiles excel at maximising light in bathroom spaces, making them ideal for small or windowless rooms. Completely non-porous and mould-resistant, glass tiles offer superior hygiene properties. They’re particularly effective in mosaics or as accent features that catch and reflect light beautifully.
The brittle nature of glass makes cutting and installation more challenging, typically requiring professional installation. Costs range from £25-£55 per square metre for quality mosaic glass tiles.
Mosaic tiles enable creative patterns
Our Athens Amazon marble mosaic tiles come for a wide selection of mosaics bringing timeless elegance to this bathroom. Crafted from natural marble in a finely detailed mosaic layout, the soft greens and subtle veining create a serene and luxurious aesthetic—ideal for a spa‑inspired retreat at home
Mosaic tiles allow for intricate patterns and work exceptionally well in shower areas and around bathtubs. Available in various materials including ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone, mosaics come pre-mounted on mesh backing for easier installation. They’re perfect for creating visual interest on feature walls or adding texture to otherwise plain surfaces.
Popular wall tile sizes and layouts
The size and layout of your bathroom tiles dramatically affect the room’s visual impact and perceived space. Understanding how different dimensions work in your specific bathroom helps create the desired aesthetic effect.
Metro tiles create classic subway patterns
Metro tiles in 75x150mm and 100x200mm sizes remain timeless classics for bathroom design. These rectangular tiles can be laid in traditional brick-bond patterns, sophisticated herringbone arrangements, or contemporary vertical stacks. The versatility of metro tiles makes them suitable for both traditional and modern bathroom styles.
Bevelled metro tiles add subtle shadow lines that enhance depth, while flat-edge versions create cleaner, more minimalist appearances. Their modest size makes them forgiving for slightly uneven walls and easier to install around fixtures and fittings.
Our Metropolitan Sydney metro-style tiles are a timeless favourite—perfect for bathroom backsplashes and modern bathroom walls alike. Crafted from glazed ceramic with a sleek, artisanal subway tile layout, these tiles combine classic metro charm with contemporary sophistication that remains incredibly popular in interiors today
Large format tiles minimise grout lines
Large format tiles from 300x600mm to 600x1200mm create sleek, contemporary looks by minimising visible grout lines. These tiles make small bathrooms appear more spacious by reducing visual interruptions across the wall surface. The clean, unbroken appearance suits minimalist and modern design styles perfectly.
Installation of large format tiles requires greater precision and typically benefits from professional fitting. The weight of these tiles may also require additional wall support, particularly for natural stone versions.
Square tiles offer versatile design options
Square tiles in 200x200mm and 300x300mm dimensions provide excellent flexibility for various layout patterns. They work equally well in grid arrangements, diagonal installations, or combined with contrasting border tiles. Square formats suit both contemporary and traditional bathroom designs.
The symmetrical nature of square tiles makes them ideal for creating balanced, harmonious appearances. They’re also practical for awkward spaces where rectangular tiles might create challenging cuts around obstacles.
Small format tiles enable intricate patterns
Small format tiles ranging from 50x50mm to 150x150mm open up possibilities for detailed mosaic patterns and textural effects. These tiles excel on curved surfaces, in niches, and around complex architectural features where larger tiles would be difficult to install.
Supplied on mesh backing sheets, small tiles speed installation while maintaining pattern accuracy. They’re particularly effective for creating focal points or adding visual interest to otherwise simple bathroom designs.
Geometric shapes add contemporary flair
Our Figure Shell Dark mosaic tiles bring a bold geometric rhythm to this bathroom wall. Made from high-quality ceramic with a sculptural, shell-inspired pattern, their deep tones and dimensional texture create a striking, artistic statement—perfect for elevating modern bathroom design
Hexagon and diamond-shaped tiles bring modern sophistication to walls. These shapes work beautifully as feature walls behind vanities or in shower areas, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space. Geometric tiles often command premium pricing but deliver unique look that sets your bathroom apart.
The angular nature of geometric tiles requires careful planning and professional installation to achieve clean, precise results. They pair well with simple rectangular tiles to create balanced, sophisticated designs.
Colour trends for wall tiles in the bathroom
Choosing the right colours for your bathroom tiles affects both the room’s atmosphere and its perceived size. Current trends balance timeless neutrals with bold statement options to suit various design preferences.
White tiles remain timelessly bright
White tiles continue to dominate bathroom design for their ability to create clean, fresh, and spacious-feeling environments. They reflect maximum light, making small bathrooms feel larger while providing a neutral backdrop for colourful accessories and fixtures. White works with any décor style and never goes out of fashion.
The crisp, hygienic appearance of white tiles suits the bathroom’s functional requirements while offering endless decorating possibilities. From classic subway whites to textured whites with subtle variations, this colour remains the most versatile choice for bathroom walls.
Grey tiles provide sophisticated neutrals
Grey tones from light dove to deep charcoal deliver spa-like sophistication to bathroom spaces. These versatile colours complement both warm and cool accent tones while hiding water spots better than pure white. Grey tiles suit contemporary, traditional, and transitional design styles equally well.
Light greys create airy, peaceful atmospheres, while darker greys add drama and intimacy. The wide range of grey tones available ensures you can find the perfect shade to match your vision and existing fixtures.
Beige and cream tones offer warmth
Marble‑effect tiles in porcelain just keeps getting more stylish — and our book-matched Marble Gold tiles are proof. Their mirrored veins in creamy tones deliver high‑end sophistication on a bathroom wall. These striking marble effect tiles help to create a luxe spa‑retreat aesthetic that's firmly on trend
Beige and cream tiles add warmth and comfort to bathroom spaces, creating inviting environments that feel cosy rather than clinical. These colours pair beautifully with brass fixtures, wooden vanities, and natural textures for a soft, organic aesthetic.
Warm neutrals work particularly well in powder rooms and guest bathrooms where you want to create welcoming, hotel-like experiences. They’re also practical choices that age gracefully with changing décor trends.
Green tiles bring nature-inspired tranquility
Green tones from sage to emerald are gaining popularity for their calming, nature-inspired qualities. These colours create serene, spa-like environments that promote relaxation and well-being. Green tiles work particularly well in bathrooms with natural light or garden views.
Subtle green-grey tones offer sophisticated alternatives to traditional neutrals, while bolder emerald shades make striking statement walls. Green pairs beautifully with brass, copper, and natural wood elements.
Blue tiles create spa-like atmospheres
Blue tiles from powder blue to navy evoke water and tranquility, making them natural choices for bathroom applications. Light blues expand space and create airy feelings, while deeper blues add richness and luxury. Blue works particularly well in coastal or nautical-themed designs.
The psychological association between blue and cleanliness makes it an instinctively appropriate choice for bathrooms. Blue tiles coordinate beautifully with white fixtures and chrome or stainless steel accents.
Black tiles make bold contemporary statements
Black tiles are emerging as powerful design elements in contemporary bathroom designs. Used strategically as accent walls or in combination with white tiles, black creates dramatic contrast and sophisticated elegance. Black tiles hide water spots and soap residue better than lighter colours.
The key to successful black tile installation is ensuring adequate lighting to prevent the space from feeling cramped. Black works particularly well in larger bathrooms or as feature walls behind vanities.
Finishes and textures for wall tiles
Dive into effortless style with our Caribbean Dream shower wall panel—a stunning, waterproof alternative to tiles. Made from durable acrylic and Di‑bond composite, its vibrant design delivers tile‑style impact without grout lines or upkeep, offering a sleek, low‑maintenance solution ideal for modern bathrooms
The finish and texture of your bathroom tiles affect both their practical performance and visual impact. Understanding the characteristics of different finishes helps you choose options that match your maintenance preferences and design goals.
Gloss finishes maximise light reflection
Gloss finishes excel at reflecting light throughout bathrooms, making them ideal for small or poorly lit rooms. The smooth, non-porous surface resists stains and cleans easily with standard bathroom cleaners. Gloss tiles create bright, fresh appearances that enhance the room’s hygienic feel.
However, gloss finishes show water spots, fingerprints, and soap residue more readily than matt alternatives. They require frequent cleaning to maintain their pristine appearance but reward this effort with sparkling, jewel-like surfaces.
Our Promenade Hastings ceramic wall tiles deliver elegance and timeless appeal with their high‑gloss finish, making bathroom walls feel endlessly bright and stylish. The sleek ceramic surface not only reflects light to visually expand the space but is also super easy to wipe clean—an ideal blend of form and function
Matt finishes hide imperfections gracefully
Matt finishes provide sophisticated, contemporary aesthetics while hiding water marks and fingerprints effectively. These surfaces offer subtle elegance and work particularly well in luxury, spa-inspired designs. Matt tiles create calm, understated environments that focus attention on architectural features and fixtures.
The slightly textured nature of matt finishes can make them marginally more challenging to clean than gloss surfaces, but the difference is minimal with quality tiles. Matt finishes suit both minimalist and traditional design approaches.
Textured surfaces add tactile interest
Textured finishes including brick-effect, wood-grain, and stone-look surfaces introduce tactile interest and visual depth to your walls. These finishes can improve slip resistance in shower areas while creating more forgiving surfaces that hide minor imperfections.
Textured tiles work particularly well as feature walls or in shower enclosures where their anti-slip properties provide safety benefits. The three-dimensional quality of textured surfaces adds warmth and character to otherwise flat wall expanses.
Marble effect provides luxury without maintenance
Marble effect tiles deliver the prestigious appearance of natural stone without the sealing and maintenance requirements. Modern digital printing technology creates incredibly realistic veining and colour variations that rival natural marble’s beauty.
These tiles offer the perfect compromise between luxury aesthetics and practical performance. They’re available in both gloss and matt finishes to suit different design preferences while maintaining consistent quality and durability.
Special effect finishes create unique character
Metallic tiles in gold, copper, and steel finishes add glamorous accent walls and modern sophistication to bathroom designs. Iridescent tiles change colour in different lighting conditions, creating dynamic, ever-changing surfaces that add drama and interest.
Hand-painted ceramic tiles offer artisanal character and unique personality that mass-produced tiles cannot match. 3D textured tiles create dramatic shadow effects and architectural interest, particularly effective under directional lighting.
Installation considerations for bathroom wall tiles
Proper installation is crucial for both the appearance and longevity of your bathroom wall tiles. Understanding key installation factors helps ensure your investment delivers years of reliable performance.
Waterproofing behind shower tiles
Ensure proper waterproofing behind tiles in shower areas by applying waterproof membrane before tile installation. This barrier prevents water penetration that could cause mould growth, structural damage, or tile failure. Quality waterproofing is essential regardless of tile type.
Professional installers understand local building codes and best practices for wet area protection. Skipping proper waterproofing to save money often results in expensive repairs that far exceed the initial installation cost.
Adhesive selection for bathroom environments
Use adhesive specifically rated for high-moisture bathroom environments and the tile type being installed. Different tiles require different adhesive formulations, particularly heavy natural stone or large format tiles that demand stronger bonding agents.
Temperature fluctuations and humidity changes in bathrooms place additional stress on tile installations. Quality adhesives accommodate these conditions while maintaining strong, flexible bonds over time.
Layout planning minimises cutting
Plan tile layouts carefully to minimise cutting around fixtures and fittings while maintaining symmetrical, and balanced in appearance. Professional installers create detailed layout plans that identify potential problem areas before installation begins.
Starting installations from central points and working outward typically produces the most pleasing results. This approach ensures cut tiles appear in less visible corners rather than prominently displayed areas.
Expansion joints in large areas
Allow for expansion joints in large tiled areas, especially with porcelain tiles that have minimal thermal movement tolerance. These joints accommodate building movement and temperature changes that could otherwise cause tile cracking or adhesive failure.
Modern sealants and movement joints are barely visible when properly installed but provide crucial protection against structural stresses. Professional installers understand when and where expansion joints are necessary.
Grout selection affects appearance
Choose grout colour carefully as it dramatically affects the finished appearance. Light grout creates defined tile boundaries that emphasise individual tile shapes, while matching grout colours create seamless, flowing surfaces.
Epoxy grouts offer superior stain resistance compared to cementitious alternatives but require more skilled application. Regular grout sealing maintains appearance and prevents water penetration regardless of grout type.
Professional installation benefits
Consider professional installation for complex patterns, large format tiles, or valuable materials where mistakes could be costly. Experienced installers have specialised tools and techniques that ensure optimal results.
DIY installation can work well for simple layouts with standard-sized tiles, but challenging installations often benefit from professional expertise. The cost of professional installation typically represents good value when considering the long-term investment in your bathroom.
Maintenance and care tips
Our Patchwork Botanical Rose ceramic wall tiles bring the beauty of nature indoors—perfect for transforming a bathroom wall into a tranquil, botanical haven. With elegant floral motifs printed in soft hues, this comes from a range of bathroom tiles that offers trend-forward style that feels fresh, sophisticated, and entirely in tune with 2025's love for nature-inspired ceramics
Proper maintenance extends the life and appearance of your bathroom wall tiles while ensuring hygienic conditions. Different tile materials and finishes require specific care approaches for optimal results.
Regular cleaning prevents buildup
Clean bathroom tiles regularly with mild detergent solutions to prevent soap scum and mineral deposit accumulation. Neutral pH cleaners work best for most tile types and won’t damage glazes or natural stone surfaces. Establish consistent cleaning routines to maintain fresh, hygienic conditions.
Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads that can scratch tile surfaces or wear away protective glazes. Gentle cleaning methods preserve tile appearance while effectively removing dirt and bacteria.
Annual grout sealing
Seal grout lines annually to prevent water penetration and staining, particularly important for cementitious grouts and natural stone installations. Quality sealers create invisible barriers that repel water and stains while allowing vapour transmission.
Properly sealed grout maintains its appearance longer and resists mould and mildew growth. This simple maintenance step significantly extends the life of your tile installation.
Squeegee after showers
Use a squeegee after showers to reduce water spots on glossy tiles and glass surfaces. This simple practice minimises mineral deposits and soap film while reducing moisture that could promote mould growth. Squeegees are particularly beneficial for maintaining pristine glass tile appearances.
Regular squeegeeing reduces the frequency of deep cleaning required while keeping surfaces sparkling clean. This habit is especially important in hard water areas where mineral deposits form quickly.
Prompt repair of damage
Address cracked or loose tiles promptly to prevent water infiltration behind the tile installation. Small problems can quickly become major issues if water penetrates the wall substrate. Quick repairs maintain the integrity of your waterproof barrier.
Professional assessment may be necessary for significant damage or recurring problems that suggest underlying installation issues. Early intervention typically costs far less than extensive repairs or replacement.
Appropriate cleaning products
Avoid acidic cleaners on natural stone tiles as they can cause permanent etching and dulling of polished surfaces. Similarly, avoid abrasive cleaners on glazed ceramics that could scratch or wear away protective coatings.
Research manufacturer recommendations for specific tile types and finishes to ensure cleaning methods preserve rather than damage your investment. When in doubt, test cleaning products in inconspicuous areas first.
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