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10 Best Bathroom Backsplash Ideas

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published September 11, 2024

Bathroom backsplashes are protective and decorative coverings that go behind the sink and countertop. These act as a functional and aesthetic element of your bathroom and protects your drywall from damage. Explore these ideas for backsplash in your bathroom to spruce up your space.

Considerations When Choosing a Backsplash

Our bathroom backsplash ideas are varied to complement different bathroom styles. But, choosing the kind of backsplash you need involves selecting the right material and style. Take a look at these considerations to get some clarity on what best suits your needs.

Material

When selecting the material, factors like durability, water resistance and ease of cleaning come into play. Some popular options can include cultured marble tiles and granite tiles for their unique appearances. Quartz stone and sintered stone are both excellent choices since they offer exceptional durability.

Color and Pattern

The overall design of your bathroom can help you decide on a color and pattern that complements it. The size of your bathroom can also determine the backsplash you choose. Smaller bathrooms can benefit from lighter colors like white tile or gray tile and smaller tiles. This can create a sense of spaciousness and make your bathroom seem more inviting.

Maintenance

Natural stones like marble and granite require more maintenance than others. When you choose a material, consider your lifestyle and cleaning habits. Also, consider the cost of the materials needed for installing a backsplash to your bathroom. Setting up a budget can help you make a choice as well.

Ideas For Backsplash in Your Bathroom

Your bathroom definitely needs a backsplash to protect your walls from water splashes, soap scum, toothpaste splatters and other messes. These bathroom backsplash ideas are versatile and can complement different styles of bathrooms.

Graphic Terrazzo Tiles

Terrazzo tiles can make a bold statement. Their modern metallic accents add a touch of glam to your bathroom backsplash.  Envision small hexagonal mosaic tiles in neutral colors like white, gray and black with a metallic brass finish.

This bathroom backsplash idea would blend well with modern bathroom, minimalistic bathroom and even mid-century bathroom styles. The neutral shades create a clean and sophisticated look while the metallic accents offer a touch of luxury.

Wood Paneling

A surprisingly warm bathroom backsplash idea, wood paneling is a unique alternative to traditional tile or stone. Fluted wood panels offer a sleek look and work well with minimalist and contemporary bathrooms. The vertical grooves along the surface adds texture to your bathroom walls. They can also add an illusion of height and make your bathroom seem spacious. 

A light colored wood with a matte finish can be a small bathroom backsplash idea since it creates a bright and airy feel. Decorative lighting can make wood paneling stand out. You can also consider adding sconces or recessed lighting. 

Moisture resistance might be a concern, but you can overcome this by choosing woods like redwood or cedar wood panels that offer a waterproof core. These also require regular cleaning and resealing to maintain its look. To prevent moisture buildup, ensure that your bathroom is well ventilated.

Cement Look Tile

If you favor an industrial chic or modern minimalist look, cement look peel-and-stick tiles is a great idea. Compared  to real concrete, these tiles are easy to install, resist scratches and are more durable. Typically made with materials like matte resin tile, these brick look tiles are  specifically designed to be water-resistant.

A smooth finish will give a more industrially textured look while one with veins can offer a natural look. It’s easy to maintain and is available in a wide variety of designs to mimic the look of concrete.

Waterproof Peel-and-Stick Tiles

This is a budget-friendly bathroom backsplash idea that is easy to do yourself. Consider creating a unique modern and minimalistic look in your bathroom with the help of these peel-and-stick tiles. Made with polished resin mimicking the timeless charm of natural stone, without all the maintenance it requires. From marble to granite and beyond, these peel-and-stick tiles can make your backsplash stand out. A matte finish can help achieve a sleek look.

Hexagon Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles are timeless and would look great in a bathroom. Incorporate geometric shapes like hexagons to add character to your space. White sanded grout can add more beauty. Use white sanded grout to create a minimalistic bathroom. Different shades of the same color can make a visually appealing design.

Ceramic mosaic tiles or glass mosaic tiles are highly water resistant and easy to maintain. Hence, it makes them ideal for bathroom applications.

White Natural Marble Tiles

The simplicity and elegance of natural marble tiles makes for a great bathroom backsplash idea. A light gray marble with a matte marble tile finish also works well for a minimalist look. Minimal grout lines and a vertical installation can create a feeling of spaciousness, making this an ideal small bathroom backsplash idea.

This works well with both wall-mounted bathroom sinks and vessel bathroom sinks. Keep the bathroom hardware to a minimal for a truly sleek look. Incorporate chrome faucets or brushed nickel faucets to complement the minimalist style.

Classic Beaded Board

Beadboard is a water-resistant and cost-effective bathroom backsplash idea. Use the innate charm of white beadboard panels to create a relaxing retreat in your bathroom. An eggshell or satin finish is ideal for bathrooms. Complement the white with pastel colors like blue, pink or lavender for a calming effect.

For added protection from moisture, consider applying a coat of clear sealant. This will make your bathroom backsplash last for a long time and look its best. Warm lighting fixtures can create a cozy atmosphere.

Matte Black Tiles

Create a dramatic statement with matte black tiles and chevron tiles. This bathroom backsplash idea blends well with a modern minimalist bathroom. Ceramic tiles or porcelain tiles create a seamless look that enhances the sleek appearance of your bathroom. A white sanded grout can create clean lines. Incorporate lighter colored bathroom elements for a beautiful contrast.

Shiplap Half Wall

Combine white shiplap with natural elements to create a serene bathroom experience. This design utilizes shiplap boards to cover the lower half of a wall. These are horizontal wooden planks with grooved channels along one edge that overlaps the next plank. This creates a striking visual interest combined with natural elements like wood shelves and small plants.

Deep Blue Granite Tiles

Deep blue granite tiles create a mesmerizing backsplash for your bathroom. Granite creates a look of elegance and  captivating appeal with its unique patterns and veining. It’s also highly resistant to scratches, stains and heat. This makes it ideal for high-moisture spaces like a bathroom backsplash. It also requires minimal upkeep and can be cleaned easily. When choosing the color of grout, it's best to select white or gray. They will not overpower the granite. Add marble-framed mirrors and warm lighting to complete the look.

DIY This Project

These ideas for backsplash in your bathroom can be done yourself or with professional help. If you decide to do them yourself, consider if you have the skill set required for some of these ideas and the tools needed. The most important consideration is safety so ensure you have all your safety gear ready and have turned off your utilities before you begin.

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