Best Bathroom Tiles: How to Choose the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom

Choosing the right bathroom tiles is one of the biggest decisions you'll make during a bathroom renovation. Tiles influence the appearance of the room, how easy it is to clean and how well the finished bathroom stands up to everyday use.

With so many options available, from large-format porcelain tiles to traditional metro tiles and decorative patterned floors, knowing where to start can be difficult.

It's also important to remember that the best tiles for bathroom walls aren't necessarily the best choice for bathroom floors.

At Inspired Installations, we have over 25 years of experience renovating bathrooms across Newcastle, Gateshead and the wider North East. We've worked with a wide variety of tile sizes, materials and finishes, and we understand the importance of choosing products that suit both the bathroom design and the installation requirements.

In this guide, we'll explain the different types of bathroom tiles, their advantages and disadvantages, and the practical considerations worth discussing before making your final choice.

1. Porcelain vs Ceramic Bathroom Tiles: What's the Difference?

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are two of the most popular choices for bathrooms.

Although they can look similar, there are important differences.

Porcelain Bathroom Tiles

Porcelain tiles are manufactured from refined materials and fired to produce a dense, low-absorption tile.

They're available in a wide range of colours, textures and designs, including marble-effect, natural stone-effect, concrete-effect and wood-effect finishes.

Advantages of porcelain tiles:

• Durable and resistant to everyday wear.
• Low water absorption.
• Suitable for many bathroom wall and floor applications.
• Available in large formats.
• Wide choice of contemporary finishes.

Porcelain is often an excellent choice for homeowners wanting a premium bathroom finish.

However, porcelain tiles can be harder to cut and drill than many ceramic tiles, particularly when working with larger formats.

They also require suitable adhesives, substrates and installation methods.

Ceramic Bathroom Tiles

Ceramic tiles are another practical choice, particularly for bathroom walls.

They come in numerous colours, patterns and finishes, from traditional metro tiles to modern decorative designs.

Advantages of ceramic tiles:

• Often less expensive than comparable porcelain products.
• Wide range of styles and colours.
• Many wall tiles are relatively straightforward to cut.
• Suitable for numerous bathroom wall applications.

Not every ceramic tile is suitable for flooring, so it's important to check the manufacturer's intended use.

Our advice: Porcelain is often our preferred option for a durable, high-quality tiled finish, but ceramic wall tiles can provide excellent results at a more accessible price.

2. What Are the Best Tiles for Bathroom Walls?

Bathroom wall tiles need to be suitable for the areas in which they're installed.

For example, tiles inside a shower are regularly exposed to water, while tiles behind a basin may only experience occasional splashes.

Popular wall tile options include large-format porcelain, ceramic metro tiles, marble-effect tiles and textured feature tiles.

Large-Format Wall Tiles

Large-format tiles can create a modern appearance with fewer grout joints.

They're particularly effective in contemporary bathrooms where a clean, uninterrupted finish is preferred.

However, larger tiles require careful handling and suitably prepared walls.

Uneven surfaces can make it difficult to achieve a consistent finish, so additional wall preparation may be necessary.

Metro Tiles

Metro tiles are a popular choice for traditional and contemporary bathrooms.

They can be installed in different patterns, including brick bond, vertical stack and herringbone arrangements.

Metro tiles work particularly well with traditional bathroom furniture and period-style fittings.

Feature Tiles

Feature tiles can add personality without overwhelming the entire bathroom.

Popular locations include the wall behind a freestanding bath, the shower area and a recessed shower niche.

If you're looking for inspiration, our bathroom renovation ideas for Newcastle homes explores different approaches to bathroom design.

3. What Are the Best Tiles for Bathroom Floors?

Bathroom floor tiles need to withstand regular foot traffic, moisture and cleaning.

They should also provide suitable slip resistance for their intended use.

Porcelain is a popular bathroom flooring material because of its durability and wide choice of finishes.

However, not every porcelain tile is suitable for a bathroom floor.

Some highly polished tiles can become slippery when wet.

When choosing floor tiles, check the manufacturer's recommendations and relevant slip-resistance information.

Matt Porcelain Floor Tiles

Matt and suitably textured porcelain tiles are popular for bathroom floors.

They can provide a contemporary appearance while offering practical surface characteristics.

Patterned Floor Tiles

Patterned tiles are particularly effective in traditional bathrooms.

Victorian-inspired patterns, geometric designs and monochrome combinations can create a distinctive feature.

However, more complicated layouts may require additional cutting and fitting time.

Wood-Effect Porcelain Tiles

Wood-effect porcelain tiles can create a warm appearance while providing the durability of a tiled surface.

They can work well with neutral wall finishes and contemporary bathroom furniture.

For compact rooms, our small bathroom renovation ideas guide explains how flooring choices can influence the sense of space.

4. Are Large Bathroom Tiles Better Than Small Tiles?

Neither option is automatically better.

The most suitable tile size depends on the room dimensions, wall and floor conditions, desired appearance and installation requirements.

Advantages of Large Tiles

Large-format tiles create fewer grout joints and can give the bathroom a more continuous appearance.

They're particularly popular in modern shower areas.

However, the substrate needs to be sufficiently flat, and large tiles can be more difficult to handle and cut.

Advantages of Smaller Tiles

Smaller tiles offer greater flexibility for decorative layouts and intricate designs.

They can also be useful for certain curved surfaces or areas where numerous cuts are required.

However, smaller tiles generally produce more grout joints, increasing cleaning requirements.

What About Mosaic Tiles?

Mosaic tiles can create attractive features in shower niches and decorative areas.

Small-format mosaics are also sometimes used on shower floors where their size helps accommodate the required drainage falls.

However, their suitability depends on the specific product, waterproofing system and floor construction.

Our advice: Choose tile sizes according to the bathroom layout and the finish you want, rather than assuming that bigger tiles always make a room look bigger.

5. Which Bathroom Tile Colours Are Best?

Colour has a significant effect on the atmosphere of a bathroom.

Light-coloured tiles can help reflect light and create an airy appearance, while darker colours can produce a dramatic, luxurious finish.

White and Cream Tiles

White, ivory and warm cream tiles remain popular because they're versatile and work with many different furniture styles.

They can also help smaller or darker bathrooms feel brighter.

Grey and Stone-Effect Tiles

Grey and stone-effect finishes suit contemporary bathrooms and are available in numerous shades and textures.

Warmer greige and taupe tones can create a softer appearance than cooler greys.

Marble-Effect Tiles

Marble-effect porcelain offers the appearance of natural marble without requiring the same maintenance as many natural stone products.

White marble-effect tiles with subtle veining can create an elegant, timeless finish.

Dark Bathroom Tiles

Charcoal, graphite and dark stone-effect tiles can look particularly effective with brushed brass, bronze or gunmetal fittings.

However, dark finishes may make water marks and soap residue more noticeable, depending on the surface and local water conditions.

For additional design inspiration, read our bathroom renovation trends for 2026.

6. Should You Tile Every Wall in a Bathroom?

Full-height tiling can create a cohesive appearance and provide a durable finish in areas exposed to water.

However, tiling every wall isn't always necessary.

A combination of tiled shower walls and suitably finished painted walls can work well in some bathrooms.

The best approach depends on the layout, budget and amount of moisture exposure.

Full-Height Tiling

Full-height tiling is popular in contemporary bathrooms because it creates a consistent appearance.

It can also simplify cleaning compared with some painted finishes.

Partially Tiled Walls

Partially tiled walls can provide an attractive contrast between tiles and painted surfaces.

This approach may also help control costs.

However, wet areas still require appropriate waterproofing and suitable surface finishes.

7. Do Bathroom Tiles Need Waterproofing Behind Them?

Yes, shower areas need an appropriate waterproofing system.

A common misconception is that tiles and grout alone make a shower completely waterproof.

In reality, moisture can penetrate through grout joints, movement cracks and poorly detailed junctions.

Proper preparation may include suitable backer boards, waterproof membranes and carefully sealed corners and pipe penetrations.

The exact requirements depend on the substrate and chosen installation system.

Waterproofing is particularly important around shower trays, wet rooms and recessed niches.

Poor preparation is one of the issues discussed in our bathroom renovation mistakes to avoid guide.

8. What Is the Best Grout for Bathroom Tiles?

The grout should be suitable for the tiles, joint width and location.

Flexible cement-based grouts are commonly used in bathroom installations, while epoxy grouts may be appropriate for certain applications.

Epoxy grout can offer good stain resistance, but it can be more demanding to install and isn't necessary for every bathroom.

Choosing Grout Colour

Grout colour can dramatically change the appearance of tiled walls.

Matching grout creates a more continuous finish, while contrasting grout emphasises the tile pattern.

For example, white metro tiles with dark grout create a distinctive traditional or industrial appearance.

However, grout should be chosen for practical reasons as well as appearance.

Junctions requiring movement accommodation should be finished with an appropriate flexible sealant rather than rigid grout.

9. Are Bathroom Wall Panels Better Than Tiles?

Bathroom wall panels can be a practical alternative to conventional tiling.

Popular options include SPC composite panels and decorative bathroom cladding.

Depending on the product, wall panels can offer fewer visible joints and reduced grout maintenance.

Some systems may also be quicker to install than traditional tiling.

However, wall panels are not automatically better than tiles.

The finished result depends on product quality, substrate preparation, joint detailing and correct installation.

When Tiles May Be Better

Tiles offer extensive design flexibility and can provide a premium, durable finish.

They're particularly useful where you want intricate patterns, decorative borders or a specific porcelain finish.

When Wall Panels May Be Better

Wall panels can be worth considering when ease of cleaning, installation time or budget are important priorities.

At Inspired Installations, we work with both traditional tiles and suitable bathroom wall panel systems.

The best choice depends on the property and your preferred design.

10. How Much Do Bathroom Tiles Cost?

Bathroom tile prices vary considerably depending on material, size, finish and manufacturer.

As an illustrative guide to tile supply prices, rather than verified current quotations:

Tile type	Indicative material cost
Basic ceramic wall tiles	£15–£30 per m²
Mid-range porcelain tiles	£25–£50 per m²
Premium porcelain tiles	£50–£90+ per m²
Decorative and specialist tiles	£40–£100+ per m²

These figures exclude installation, adhesives, grout, trims, waterproofing and preparation materials.

Installation costs also vary.

Large-format porcelain tiles may require more careful handling and preparation, while intricate patterns such as herringbone can increase cutting and fitting time.

The condition of the existing walls and floors can have a significant impact on the overall quotation.

For a broader explanation of renovation budgets, see our bathroom renovation costs in Newcastle guide.

11. How Many Extra Bathroom Tiles Should You Order?

It's important to allow for cutting, breakages and wastage.

For a straightforward layout, approximately 10% extra tiles is a common starting point.

However, the allowance may need to be increased for:

• Herringbone patterns.
• Diagonal layouts.
• Small or irregularly shaped rooms.
• Numerous corners and recesses.
• Large-format tiles with complicated cuts.
• Tiles requiring pattern or vein matching.

For more complex designs, 15–20% or more may be appropriate depending on the layout.

The most accurate approach is to calculate the quantities based on the actual tile size and installation pattern.

It's also sensible to retain a few spare tiles for future repairs.

12. Choose Tiles That Suit Your Lifestyle

The most expensive bathroom tiles aren't necessarily the best choice for your home.

A family bathroom may benefit from durable, easy-to-clean finishes, while an ensuite could accommodate a more decorative design.

Before choosing tiles, consider:

• How frequently the bathroom is used.
• Whether children use the room.
• How much cleaning and maintenance you're comfortable with.
• Whether the floor needs particular slip-resistance characteristics.
• The amount of natural light.
• The style of bathroom furniture and fittings.
• Your overall renovation budget.

It's also worth thinking about how the design will age.

Highly fashionable finishes can look attractive today, but a balanced design may remain appealing for longer.

If you're renovating with a future sale in mind, our guide to whether a new bathroom adds value to your home explores the importance of practical, broadly appealing bathroom improvements.

Planning Your Bathroom Tiling Project

Once you've selected your preferred tiles, it's important to consider how they fit into the wider renovation.

Tile choices affect preparation, installation time and the order in which work needs to be completed.

For example, large-format porcelain tiles may require additional wall levelling, while tiled shower areas need suitable waterproofing before installation.

It's best to finalise your tile selections before work begins, particularly if the products have longer delivery times.

Our guide to planning a bathroom renovation covers the key decisions to make before starting your project.

You can also read our bathroom renovation timeline guide to understand when tiling takes place during a complete refurbishment.

Bathroom Tiling and Installation with Inspired Installations

At Inspired Installations, we provide complete bathroom renovation services across Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, Durham and the surrounding North East.

With over 25 years of experience, we understand the importance of selecting suitable tiles, preparing surfaces correctly and achieving a high-quality finish.

Our bathroom installation services include wall and floor tiling, shower waterproofing, wall preparation, plumbing, flooring and complete bathroom refurbishment.

We also offer suitable alternatives to traditional tiling, including SPC composite wall panels and bathroom cladding.

All our installation workmanship is covered by a five-year guarantee.

If you're planning a bathroom renovation in the Newcastle area, learn more about our bathroom fitters in Newcastle and how we can help with your project.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Tiles

Are porcelain tiles better than ceramic tiles for bathrooms?

Porcelain tiles are generally denser and have lower water absorption, making them a popular choice for bathroom floors and walls. However, ceramic tiles can be an excellent option for bathroom walls, particularly where budget and decorative choice are important.

What tiles make a small bathroom look bigger?

Large-format tiles, light colours and consistent finishes can help create a more spacious appearance. However, lighting and the bathroom layout are equally important.

Are matt tiles better than gloss tiles for bathroom floors?

Matt or suitably textured tiles are often preferred for bathroom floors, but the important factor is the product's tested slip resistance and suitability for the intended location.

Can you use the same tiles on bathroom walls and floors?

Yes, provided the manufacturer confirms that the tiles are suitable for both applications. Wall-only tiles should not automatically be used on floors.

Do you need to waterproof bathroom walls before tiling?

Shower areas require appropriate waterproofing. The exact system depends on the wall construction, substrate and installation method. Tiles and grout alone should not be relied upon as the waterproof barrier.

How much extra should I allow for bathroom tiles?

Approximately 10% is a common starting point for straightforward layouts, while complex patterns and rooms with numerous cuts may require 15–20% or more.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best bathroom tiles involves balancing appearance, durability, maintenance and installation requirements.

Porcelain tiles are an excellent option for many bathrooms, but ceramic tiles, decorative finishes and suitable wall panel systems can also produce attractive results.

The most important thing is to choose materials that suit your bathroom and ensure they're installed over correctly prepared surfaces.

If you're planning a bathroom renovation, Inspired Installations can help you explore the options and create a bathroom that's practical, stylish and built to last.

Contact Inspired Installations on 07497 247762 for a free, no-obligation bathroom renovation quotation.