The Best Floor Tiles for Your Home in 2025

Flooring isn’t something you change often, so when you do, you want to get it right.

But choosing the best floor tiles isn’t as simple as picking what looks good in a showroom. You need to think about how they’ll stand up to muddy shoes, steamy bathrooms or dropped dishes.

And let’s be honest, no one wants to waste money on tiles that crack, stain, or turn into high maintenance headaches. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on the most reliable, stylish, and practical tile options for every space.

Before you commit to anything, read this. Let’s make sure your floors are something you’ll love for years to come.

Best Floor Tiles by Material

Every tile material offers something different when it comes to durability, style and upkeep. To make the right choice, think about where the tile will go, how much wear it’ll get, and how much time you’re happy to spend on maintaining your tiles.

1. Porcelain Tiles

If you need something tough and long-lasting, porcelain is one of the best choices you can make. Since porcelain tiles are fired at a higher temperature, they becomes denser, harder, and more water-resistant than most other tiles.

Because of that, it’s perfect for areas that see heavy use or frequent moisture, like bathrooms, kitchens, or even outdoor spaces. While it’s resistant to stains and scratches, it can be harder to cut, so make sure to plan ahead if you’re handling the installation yourself.

2. Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are a great all-rounder, especially if you’re working with a budget or tackling a DIY project. Compared to porcelain, they’re easier to cut and install, which saves time and effort.

They also come in many colours, styles, and finishes, making it easy to match your space. However, since they’re more porous, they’re better suited for dry or low-traffic areas like bedrooms, living rooms, or feature walls.

3. Natural Stone Tiles (e.g. granite, marble, slate)

Natural stone tiles give you something no other tile can, a one-of-a-kind look. Every piece is unique in colour and texture, adding real character to your floors.

Granite is strong and ideal for high-traffic spaces, while marble adds luxury but needs sealing to stay protected. Slate is naturally textured and offers slip resistance, making it a great choice for entryways or outdoor zones.

These tiles are heavier and need sealing, so they’re best installed by someone with experience.

4. Timber-Look Tiles

Timber-look tiles are perfect if you want the warmth of wood without the maintenance. They look like real timber but are made from porcelain or ceramic, so they’re waterproof and scratch-resistant.

You can use them in places where real wood wouldn’t hold up, like bathrooms or kitchens. They also work well with underfloor heating, which makes them a great option for colder rooms.

Plus, you don’t need to worry about sealing, sanding, or fading over time.

5. Patterned Tiles

Patterned tiles are a great way to bring character and energy into a space. Whether you’re after a vintage, Moroccan, or bold geometric look, they instantly become a focal point. They’re especially popular in entryways, bathrooms, or feature zones where you want to make a statement. To keep things balanced, it’s best to pair them with simpler, more neutral finishes elsewhere.

6. Cement Tiles

Cement tiles offer a handcrafted, artisanal look that feels both bold and unique. Made from natural materials and hydraulically pressed, they’re strong and built to last. However, they are porous and need regular sealing to resist stains and moisture. For best results, use them in dry zones or where you want a striking feature, like a splashback or entry floor.

7. Terrazzo Tiles

Terrazzo tiles combine marble, quartz, or granite chips set into a cement base, creating a speckled finish that adds texture and charm. They’re highly durable and work well in both homes and commercial settings. When properly sealed, they resist wear and are easy to maintain. Their classic style fits beautifully into modern, coastal, or heritage-style interiors.

8. Terracotta Tiles

Terracotta tiles bring warmth and character to a space with their rich, earthy tones. Made from natural clay, they offer a rustic, handcrafted look that suits Mediterranean or country-style interiors.

However, because they’re quite porous, they need regular sealing to protect against stains and moisture. For this reason, they’re best used in dry indoor areas like hallways, bedrooms, or feature zones where charm matters more than heavy use.

9. Travertine Tiles

Travertine tiles are natural stones with soft veining and neutral shades that give floors an elegant, organic feel. Since they’re formed in mineral springs, they have natural pores and surface texture that add depth and interest.

Just keep in mind that they’re more delicate than other stones and require sealing to avoid stains or etching from spills. If you’re taking on a DIY project, keep in mind that they’re harder to cut and grout, so they’re better suited to professional installation in dry spaces like living rooms or entryways.

10. Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles are a great way to add detail and personality to your space. Because they’re made from materials like glass, ceramic or porcelain, they’re versatile and come in sheets that are easy to lay. These small tiles are ideal for splashbacks, feature walls or bathroom floors where you want an artistic touch. Just remember, since they have more grout lines, they may need a little more upkeep to keep everything looking crisp and clean.

11. Vinyl Tiles (LVT)

Vinyl tiles, also known as LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles), are a practical and budget-friendly flooring option. They’re water-resistant, easy to clean, and surprisingly comfortable underfoot, which makes them great for kitchens, laundries, or busy family areas. Since they mimic the look of wood, stone or ceramic, you can get the style you want without the high price tag. Plus, installation is straightforward, making them a popular pick for DIY renovators.

Best Floor Tiles by Room Type

Not every tile works in every space. Some rooms need extra durability, while others need better grip or water resistance. The best choice depends on how the room is used and what conditions the floor will face.

Let’s look at what works best for each room in your home.

1. Best Tiles for Kitchen Floor

Kitchens deal with spills, heat, dropped utensils, and constant foot traffic, so your flooring needs to be both tough and easy to clean.

Porcelain tiles are one of the most reliable options. They’re strong, stain-resistant, and available in a wide range of styles. A matte or textured finish can also help reduce the risk of slipping.

If you’re after something more luxurious, granite tiles hold up well to heat and pressure while adding a polished, high-end look. Just keep in mind they’ll need sealing.

For added comfort while standing for long periods, LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles) is another great choice. It’s softer underfoot, waterproof, and simple to maintain. This makes it perfect for busy home cooks.

2. Best Tiles for Bathroom Floor

Bathrooms are often wet and steamy, so safety and water resistance are top priorities.

Porcelain or glazed ceramic tiles work well here, especially when rated R10 or higher for slip resistance. They also handle moisture and temperature changes without a fuss.

To add more personality or grip to shower zones, mosaic tiles are worth considering. Their small size and extra grout lines not only boost traction but also let you get creative with your bathroom design.

3. Best Tiles for Living Room Floor

Living rooms should feel warm and welcoming while still standing up to daily wear and tear.

Timber-look porcelain tiles offer the charm of natural wood without the upkeep, making them a great fit for busy households.

For something more elegant and natural, travertine or slate tiles add texture and depth. These work best in lower-traffic living spaces and do require sealing to protect the surface.

Another option is LVT, especially if you prefer a softer step underfoot. It’s comfortable, resilient, and ideal for homes with kids or pets.

Not sure what size to choose? Check out this floor tile sizes guide to make the right decision.

4. Best Tiles for Laundry Room

Laundry rooms face plenty of moisture, spills, and heavy appliances, so you need flooring that can take it all in stride.

Porcelain tiles with a textured or matte finish offer great slip resistance and durability in wet zones.

If you’re looking for something more cushioned, LVT is a practical pick. It’s water-resistant, easy to clean, and softer underfoot. This is especially helpful in tight utility spaces.

You could also consider ceramic tiles if the laundry area doesn’t experience too much wear. They’re affordable and low-fuss. Just make sure to seal them if needed.

5. Best Tiles for Outdoor/Alfresco

Outdoor tiles need to hold up to sun, rain, dirt, and temperature shifts while remaining safe to walk on.

Full-body porcelain tiles with an R11 or higher slip rating are designed specifically for outdoor conditions. They’re tough, weather-resistant, and easy to clean.

For a more natural or rustic look, slate or travertine tiles are excellent alternatives. Just make sure they’re sealed properly and rated for UV and frost resistance to avoid damage over time.

6. Best Tiles for Hallways and High-Traffic Zones

Hallways and entryways see plenty of action, so durability and low maintenance are very important.

Porcelain tiles with a PEI rating of 4 or 5 are ideal. They’re hardwearing and easy to clean. Matte finishes also help reduce glare and hide scuffs.

If you’re aiming for more visual impact, granite or terrazzo tiles bring durability with a premium feel. These options make a strong first impression and handle wear beautifully.

7. Best Tiles for Commercial Spaces

Commercial areas require flooring that’s functional, stylish, and built to last under constant use.

Commercial-grade porcelain tiles are a go-to solution. They strike a great balance between strength, safety, and ease of upkeep.

If design matters as much as durability, like in retail or hospitality settings, terrazzo or concrete-look tiles offer a bold, professional finish that stands up to traffic without sacrificing style.

Popular Floor Tile Finishes

The finish of a floor tile doesn’t just change how it looks, it also affects how safe it is, how easy it is to clean, and where it works best. Choosing the right finish can make a big difference in how your flooring performs day-to-day.

1. Matte

Matte tiles have a soft, non-reflective surface that creates a more natural and understated look. Because they don’t show water spots or footprints easily, they’re a great choice for busy areas. They also tend to offer better grip, which makes them ideal for bathrooms, laundries, and outdoor spaces.

2. Gloss

Gloss tiles feature a smooth, shiny surface that reflects light and adds brightness to a room. This finish can make smaller spaces feel more open and clean. However, gloss tiles can become slippery when wet, so they’re best used on walls or in low-traffic indoor areas.

3. Textured

Textured tiles are designed with a slightly rough surface, which helps increase grip underfoot. This makes them a safe choice for areas prone to getting wet. They’re commonly used outdoors, around pools, or in entryways. At the same time, the textured look can add character and a natural feel to your floors.

4. Honed

Honed tiles offer a smooth but non-glossy finish, sitting somewhere between matte and polished. This finish gives tiles a soft, satin look that works well in modern or classic spaces. It’s commonly used on natural stone tiles like travertine or limestone for a more refined appearance without high shine.

5. Polished

Polished tiles have a glossy, reflective surface that adds a high-end feel to any room. They brighten up a space and work well in areas where style is the focus. Just keep in mind they can be slippery when wet, so they’re better suited to dry areas like living rooms, hallways, or formal spaces.

6. Anti-Slip Coatings

Some tiles come with a special anti-slip coating for added safety. These coatings help reduce the risk of slipping without changing the tile’s appearance too much. They’re ideal for wet zones, commercial spaces, and homes with kids or older adults.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Floor Tiles

A quality floor tile should do more than just look good. It needs to handle daily wear, work with your space, and hold up over time without causing extra hassle. When you’re choosing the best tile for your home, these are the things that matter most.

1. Durability

Floor tiles take a beating from foot traffic, furniture, and daily mess. Porcelain tiles are one of the most durable options and are ideal for high-traffic areas.

Look at the PEI rating to understand how durable a tile is:

- PEI 3 is good for low-traffic areas like bedrooms
- PEI 4 or 5 is better for kitchens, hallways, and busy living spaces

Want tiles that last? Make sure you understand the floor tile rating system before buying!

2. Style and design versatility

The best tiles don’t just hold up, they look great too. Choose from a wide range of colours, finishes, and patterns to suit your interior style. Timber-look tiles, terrazzo styles, and natural stone finishes let you get creative while keeping practicality in mind.

3. Safety (slip resistance)

Tiles can get slippery when wet, especially in bathrooms, laundries and outside. Choose tiles with an R10 or R11 slip rating to keep things safe. Matte or textured surfaces are a safer option than smooth, glossy ones.

Want to avoid accidents on your floors? Check out the guide to non‑slip floor tiles.

4. Water Resistance

In areas that get wet, like bathrooms or patios, tiles need to resist moisture. Porcelain tiles are ideal because they don’t absorb much water. Make sure your tiles are suitable for floor use in wet zones.

5. Maintenance requirements

Some tiles need more care than others. Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles are easy to clean with just a sweep and mop. Natural stone looks great but usually needs sealing and a bit more upkeep.

Want tiles that stay looking new? Learn the best way to clean tiled floors and keep them shining.

6. Value for money

The best tile isn’t always the cheapest. A higher quality tile might cost more upfront but will last longer and need fewer repairs. Over time, it’s often the more affordable option.

7. Room Functionality

Each room in your home has different needs, so it’s important to match the tile to the space. High-use areas like kitchens and hallways need tough, low-maintenance tiles that can handle everyday wear. On the other hand, bedrooms and living spaces offer more flexibility to focus on comfort and style.

8. Sustainability and eco-friendliness

If going green matters to you, look for tiles made from recycled content or natural materials like terracotta or low-emission porcelain. Some tiles are certified for sustainability or low VOC emissions. It’s a great way to lower your home’s footprint without sacrificing style.

Where to Buy the Best Floor Tiles in Sydney?

TFO delivers what most retailers can’t: premium floor tiles at factory-direct prices, backed by expert advice and fast availability. With over 150 trusted manufacturers behind us and more than 700,000m² of stock in Sydney, we make it easy to get exactly what you need, when you need it. Our experienced team offers personalised consultations, and our online Room Visualiser helps you see how tiles will look in your space before you commit.

Shop in-store or online today and get your project moving with the best floor tiles at the best value!

Best Floor Tiles FAQs

Which tiles are best for floor?

Porcelain tiles are the best choice for flooring because they’re dense, water-resistant, and highly durable, making them perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and even outdoor areas. For the best quality, choose tiles with a PEI rating of 4 or 5, which means they can withstand heavy foot traffic and resist scratches with ease.

What is the easiest floor tile to maintain?

Glazed porcelain and ceramic tiles are the easiest to maintain since they’re non-porous and resist stains. A regular sweep and mop are usually enough to keep them clean and looking new.

What type of floor tile is the most durable?

Porcelain tiles are the most durable because they’re fired at higher temperatures, making them hard, dense, and water-resistant. They’re ideal for high-traffic areas and last for years with minimal upkeep.

Which tiles are best for the bathroom floor?

Look for porcelain or textured ceramic tiles with a slip resistance rating of R10 or higher. These offer good grip when wet and are resistant to water, making them safe and practical for bathroom floors.

What are the best floor tiles for a kitchen?

Porcelain tiles are ideal for kitchen floors as they’re stain-resistant, heat-tolerant, and tough enough to handle daily wear. For added safety, go for a matte or textured finish to reduce slipping, and choose tiles with a PEI rating of 4 or 5 for better durability in high-traffic zones.

What are the best floor tiles for high-traffic areas?

Use porcelain or natural stone tiles like granite with a high PEI rating for high-traffic zones. These tiles resist scratches, and wear, and won’t chip easily, even in busy households.

Are porcelain tiles better than ceramic tiles?

Yes, porcelain tiles are denser, stronger, and absorb less water than ceramic tiles. They last longer in high-moisture or heavy-use areas, making them a more durable long-term investment.

What kind of floor tile is best for pet owners?

Porcelain tiles are the best choice for pet owners because they resist scratches from claws and won’t absorb odours or stains. They’re also easy to clean if there are any pet accidents.