How to choose bathroom tiles

Finding the right tiles for your bathroom can make all the difference in achieving a cohesive and stylish look, but there are a few things to consider to ensure they also meet your practical needs.

Let's dive into some key factors to consider when choosing your new tiles:

Colour and pattern

Bathroom tiles are available in a vast range of colours and patterns, helping you create the perfect look for your space. Whether you're going for classic black tiles or a luxurious marble-effect, the choice of colour and pattern can make a big impact.

For a more industrial look, concrete-effect tiles are a great way to bring the impression of porous textures into your bathroom while remaining easy to clean and maintain. Or, choose patterned tiles to add character.

Brian suggests: “When choosing tiles, think about your bathroom's overall style and colour scheme. Your tiles should work well with your existing bathroom furniture, so the final look feels cohesive and complimentary.”

“A neutral colour palette often creates a timeless look that's easy to match to a wider range of basin units and toilet designs, while patterned or coloured tiles are perfect for creating an eye-catching focal point.”

Size

Bathroom tiles come in a wide range of sizes, from small mosaic pieces at 150mm tall to large-format tiles up to 3050mm in height, so it's crucial to consider the area you're covering and your budget.

Brian explains: "If you're looking to save on a full bathroom renovation, larger tiles can help keep costs down since you'll need fewer of them. Plus, the installation is usually quicker."

"But smaller tiles are great for adding a detailed, bespoke look, especially for features like splashbacks or accent walls. Just keep in mind that it can get pricey when covering large areas."

He adds, “This is where tile sheets can be a lifesaver, saving you time and money on large-scale installations by fitting pre-arranged sections of tile instead of manually adhering each tile individually.”

Water resistance

Moisture is inevitable in a bathroom, so choosing tiles with good water resistance is essential. This guarantees that your tiles won't warp, crack, or lose their finish over time, even in areas with a lot of humidity.

Tiles with low porosity are best for areas with high moisture, especially if your bathroom has poor ventilation and tends to hold onto dampness for longer.

"Not all tiles are equally water-resistant, so it's important to think about where they'll be placed," Brian advises. "For example, porcelain tiles are highly resistant to water, making them ideal for showers and splash zones around sinks."

"Natural stone tiles, like terracotta, can bring a luxurious, rustic look to your bathroom, but they tend to have higher porosity. They're better suited for lower-moisture areas, like feature walls or decorative borders. That said, they can still absorb moisture without proper sealing and maintenance, leading to staining or damage over time."

"If your bathroom retains a lot of moisture, investing in lower-porosity tiles can save you trouble in the long run."

Slip resistance

When choosing new tiles for your floor, it's essential to consider their level of slip resistance, especially for spaces prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.

Brian explains: "Tiles are typically rated on a slip-resistance scale ranging from R1 to R13, with R10 and above being considered safe for wet environments, like shower areas and floors that tend to get slippery."

"Opting for tiles with a lower slip-resistance rating could increase the risk of accidents, so it's important to choose a rating that matches the specific needs of the room."

At Wholesale Domestic, you'll find the slip-resistance rating clearly listed for each of our floor tiles, helping you make an informed and safe choice.