Your new kitchen backsplash tiles are going to be gorgeous — but will they be a pain to keep clean? Homeowners often select backsplash tiles for the style and character they add to the room, but ease of care is the point of installing wall tile in the first place. It’s there to protect your wall from splashes and splatters.
There are two main factors that affect how easy it is to keep a tile clean: the size and the material.
Tile Size
Consider the grout line — the space between each tile, which is filled in with sanded or unsanded cement-like material. No matter how strong and water-repellent your backsplash tiles may be, unfortunately, grout is porous. Eventually, it will start looking a bit dull and dingy and will need special care. You can minimize this problem by applying grout sealer about two days to a week after installation, and repeating once a year.
Medici Silver Tile
Another way to minimize the troublesome grout line is to choose a large format tile. The bigger the tile, the fewer grout lines for grime to stick to. Even better, some types of large-format tile are virtually seamless. They still need grout, but less grout means less scrubbing. You might also consider giving up the traditional white grout line, and opting for a colored grout to match or contrast with the kitchen backsplash tile. This won’t keep the grout from getting dirty, of course, but you may be able to go longer without cleaning it.
Then again, why not go with zero grout lines? A slab backsplash, while it’s not a tile, can be the ultimate easy-care surface. Choose the same material and pattern as your countertop, or liven up the vertical surface with a boldly patterned slab in contrast to a solid or more subtly colored counter.
Tile Material
When it comes to easy cleaning, not all backsplash tiles are created equal. Porcelain, ceramic, metal, and glass tile top the easy-care list because they resist staining, are naturally nonporous, and don’t require any special cleansers to do the job.
Icelandic Green 2" Hexagon Mosaic Tile
Other tiles such as travertine, marble, and other natural stones are gorgeous in a backsplash installation, but they have special care requirements. All natural stone needs regular sealing to resist stains and other damage, even when used as wall tile. You must also use cleansers that are formulated for use on natural stone.
If your kitchen is a busy place, consider using marble-look porcelain instead of real marble. Inkjet-printed porcelain tiles can imitate any type of surface, including wood grain and textiles. Although porcelain brick has a texture that makes it slightly more difficult to clean, it’s much easier to clean than real brick.
Azila Porcelain Tile
Still not sure which tile is best for you? Take this backsplash tile quiz for some insight into making that big decision. There are so many different types of tile, including pre-meshed mosaics and inkjet-printed lookalikes; it’s not difficult to find backsplash designs that provide easy care while also creating a designer look in your kitchen or bath.
Still have more questions about kitchen backsplash tile care? We're here to help! Chatwith us online, visit one of ourshowrooms, or find anMSI authorized dealernear you.
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FAQs
Glazed porcelain, ceramic, and glass tiles are practically impervious to stains, and keeping them clean is a cinch.
What is the easiest backsplash to keep clean? ›
Porcelain, ceramic, metal, and glass tile top the easy-care list because they resist staining, are naturally nonporous, and don't require any special cleansers to do the job.
What is the best backsplash for a messy kitchen? ›
Metal and stainless steel tiles are very easy to clean, hygienic and will last for years to come. A contemporary material, metal is perfect for modern kitchen backsplashes while it won't need lots of maintenance or care to keep looking great for longer.
What backsplash tile never goes out of style? ›
A white subway tile backsplash design is the ultimate preference in many kitchens. Since they were found at the very beginning of the 20th century, the subway tiles we now use in our kitchens have been a popular choice.
What type of tile is easiest to clean a kitchen? ›
Porcelain tiles are much easier to clean than natural stone tiles as you don't have to worry so much about damaging your sealant or water marks. Most porcelain is micro sealed during production meaning they are most resistant to wear and tear, requiring little up keep.
What is the most practical kitchen backsplash? ›
Ceramic. The original backsplash material, ceramic retains its popularity today as an easy-to-maintain, durable, versatile, and often inexpensive choice. Ceramic tiles come in a large array of shapes, colors, and sizes, making them easy to fit in with your vision.
Do peel and stick tiles last backsplash? ›
Since peel-and-stick tiles aren't a permanent solution and most ideal for rentals, they will not last forever. However, if installed well and not continually exposed to water, they should maintain at least five years of their original look. Make sure to clean them properly to ensure their longevity.
What backsplash to avoid? ›
The kitchen backsplash should not use cement tiles or limestone, the main ingredient in cement, because they are too porous.
What is the trend in kitchen backsplash in 2024? ›
Continuous Backsplash
Another trend that homeowners are catching onto are continuous slabs of marble, granite, and quartzite as a backsplash. It creates a timeless look whether shinny and polished or in a matte finish.
What is groutless backsplash? ›
Stress-Free Peel-and-Stick Tiles
With no grout or special tools needed, peel and stick backsplash tiles are installed with ease and absolutely no mess. Our peel-and-stick tiles come with a paper backing that you can peel away and stick as an easy way to upgrade the look and functionality or your kitchen or bathroom.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are commonly used in the kitchen as they are durable, low maintenance and easy to clean.
What tiles don t get dirty easily? ›
Porcelain tiles are best for the floor because they are dense, very hardwearing, durable, and scratch-resistant. This ensures a cleaner-looking floor as the more scratches and chips your tiles have, the dirtier they look. Porcelain absorbs less water, so they are resistant to stains and are less likely to get mouldy.
What color tile is easiest to keep clean? ›
Tiles in lighter tones are harder to clean, so you'll want to lean toward beiges, grays, or even slightly darker shades. Matte finishes also do a good job of keeping dirt out of sight, and this finish will also make your tile much less slippery when wet.
What is the easiest splashback to clean? ›
Stainless steel splashbacks are durable, easy to clean and have a sleek, modern look. They are also resistant to heat, making them ideal for use behind the cooktop. However, they could easily scratch and dent and fingerprints could be visible on the surface.
What is the best material to use for kitchen backsplash? ›
The most common and durable material for kitchen backsplashes is ceramic tile. This type of tile stands up well against moisture and can be very cost-effective. The downside of this ceramic tile is the learning curve needed to install it. Natural stone backsplashes are stylish, timeless, unique and can be inexpensive.
What is the best timeless kitchen backsplash? ›
Marble, granite, and limestone are all popular options because of their timeless, organic look. They come in a range of colors and they can be installed with minimal grouting so they offer a uniform surface with less visible seams.
What is the most economical backsplash? ›
Peel-and-Stick Backsplash
Using peel-and-stick tiles is a cheap backsplash idea that's easier to install than traditional tile. The self-adhesive backing can be applied directly to the wall with no grout needed. The wide range of patterns lets you recreate the look of a bold tile backsplash without the high cost.
Medici Silver Tile
Icelandic Green 2" Hexagon Mosaic Tile
Azila Porcelain Tile