How to Choose Tiles for Bathroom Walls and Floors

Tiles do more than cover walls and floors. The tiles you choose set the tone, shape how the space feels, and impact how easy your bathroom design is to live with.

With so many styles, sizes, and finishes out there, it’s easy to pick something that looks great in the showroom but doesn’t work at home. There’s more to it than just aesthetics. Things like layout, lighting, material and even maintenance all play a part in making the right choice.

That’s why it’s worth taking a bit of time before locking anything in. This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider and a few tips so you can choose the perfect bathroom tiles for your space.

How To Choose Tiles For Bathroom Wall & Floor

1. Understand Your Bathroom Style

Before choosing tiles, take a step back and look at the overall layout of your bathroom. The size, shape, and layout of the entire space will influence everything, from where tiles go to what size and type will work best.

Is it a small ensuite or a large family bathroom? Are there awkward corners, low ceilings, or lots of natural light? These things impact how tile patterns will look and feel once installed. Once you understand the layout, think about your style.

Your style should guide tile colour, texture, and finish, but the layout tells you what’s possible.

2. Consider Your Bathroom Size

Small bathrooms benefit from clever tile selection. Light-coloured, large-format tiles can make compact bathrooms feel bigger and more open. In contrast, larger bathrooms allow for more creativity so that you can try statement floors or bold colours.

Always factor in ceiling height, natural light, and layout when choosing tile sizes and colours. If a space feels too closed in, the right tile can visually stretch it and create a more seamless look.

3. Create a Colour Palette

Tiles are one of the most visible surfaces in your bathroom, so your colour palette needs to work hard. Start with a base colour, usually a neutral colour, and build around it with complementary or contrasting tones.

For example, white tiles pair beautifully with brass fittings, while cooler greys suit chrome. Consider how tile colours will look under artificial light and natural daylight.

4. Consider Long-Term Trends

Trends come and go, but tiles stick around for years.

So while it’s tempting to go bold with patterned tiles or trendy colours, always ask yourself: will I still love this five years from now? Classic styles like ceramic and porcelain tiles, subway, terrazzo, and neutral colours stay relevant longer and are easier to pair with new decor later.

If you love latest ba throom tile trends, use them in feature tiles or accessories that can be easily swapped out.

Get expert insights on DIY bathroom renovations and modern bathroom design all in one place by checking out our blogs.

5. Set a Smart Budget

It’s easy to get carried away, but smart budgeting helps you make decisions that balance cost and quality.

Break down your budget by floor tiles, wall tiles, feature tiles, and installation. Also, factor in extras like grout, trims, and sealing if you’re using stone.

And always buy at least 10–15% more tiles than needed to cover cuts, waste, and future repairs. Investing in non-porous, good-quality tiles saves money in the long run.

Curious about bathroom renovation costs? Get a clear, detailed breakdown in our latest blog post.

6. Choose the Right Material

Tile material impacts everything: look, feel, durability, and maintenance.

Porcelain tiles are a popular choice because they’re dense, durable, and slip-resistant. Great for floors and high-use areas. Ceramic tiles are more cost-effective and easier to cut, making them ideal for walls. Natural stone, like marble or travertine, looks stunning but needs sealing and ongoing care.

7. Pick the Right Size and Shape

Tile size and shape directly affect the perception of space. Large tiles make rooms feel bigger and reduce grout lines, which means fewer grout lines and easier cleaning.

Smaller tiles can add texture and grip, especially in wet zones like the shower floor. Rectangular tiles elongate a wall if laid vertically or widen it if laid horizontally.

Also, consider tile layout early, as it can highlight or hide room imperfections.

8. Choose the Tile Finish

Finish matters more than you think. Glossy tiles are perfect for walls because they reflect light and make the space feel brighter. But they can be slippery, so not ideal for floors.

Matte finish and textured tiles offer grip and hide water spots, making them practical in wet zones. Some finishes also affect how easy tiles are to clean.

Choose finishes that complement your lighting, colour scheme, and day-to-day use.

9. Stick to a Maximum of Three Tile Styles

Too many tile styles can overwhelm your space. A good rule is to stick to no more than three: one for the floor, one for the walls, and one for a feature.

This keeps the space cohesive and calming.

If you go beyond that, you risk making the room feel disjointed or visually noisy. You can still create contrast and interest with textures and tones within the same tile body.

10. Start with a Feature Tile

A feature tile can anchor your design and set the mood. Choose one standout tile first, preferably something with colour, pattern, texture or shape, and build your palette around it. This tile could go in the shower niche, vanity wall, or as a floor centrepiece.

Starting with a hero tile makes the rest of your selections easier and more cohesive. Just be careful not to overuse it. Less is more when creating a focal point.

11. Mix and Match with Confidence

Mixing tile styles adds character, but there’s a right way to do it. Stick to a limited colour palette and play with size or texture for variety.

For example, pair large matte floor tiles with smaller glossy wall tiles. Or contrast smooth tiles with something tactile like stone-look finishes.

Always lay out your choices side by side before committing. A confident mix shows personality and design flair without going overboard.

12. Use the Same Tile on Walls and Floors

Using the same tile on both walls and floors creates a seamless look. It’s perfect for minimalist or modern styles. But make sure the tile has the right slip rating, as not all tiles are floor-safe.

If you’re going for this look, choose a tile that works for both applications and vary the layout slightly to add subtle visual interest. This approach makes the room feel bigger and more cohesive.

13. Vertical vs Horizontal Layouts Matter

The way you lay tiles affects how the space feels. Vertical layouts draw the eye upward, making low ceilings feel taller. Horizontal layouts widen narrow spaces. You can even go diagonal or herringbone for extra style.

Layout patterns add movement and depth, so don’t overlook this step. Test a few options with your tiler or with samples before locking in your final choice.

Want to learn more? Check out our detailed blog on vertical vs horizontal layouts.

14. Think About Grout Colour

Grout isn’t just a filler. It’s part of the design. Choosing the right grout colour can completely change the look of your tiles.

Match grout for a seamless feel or contrast it to make each tile pop. Dark grout is practical in high-traffic areas, while light grout can make a space feel cleaner and more open.

Just remember: Grout needs to be sealed properly to avoid mould and discolouration.

Need tips on grout? Check out our detailed blog on tile grout and how to use it.

15. Match Tiles with Your Fixtures

Tiles need to work with more than just each other. They should complement your fixtures too. Consider your tapware, vanity, mirror, and lighting. Are they chrome, brass, black or brushed nickel?

Cool tile tones go well with chrome or black; warm tones pair beautifully with brass or gold. Matching finishes brings harmony to your bathroom and avoids visual clashes.

If you’re planning a bathroom renovations, See our expert recommendations for the best bathroom vanities.

16. Consider the Placement

The placement of your tile can elevate a design or make it feel flat. Use striking tiles in high-visibility areas like the vanity splashback or shower wall. Keep larger expanses neutral to avoid a busy look.

Think about where the eye naturally goes when you walk in. That’s your key spot.

Also, consider where the lighting hits. The right placement can highlight texture and finish beautifully.

17. Be Mindful of Water Management

Bathrooms get wet, and your tile choices should help manage that. Use slip-resistant tiles on the floor, especially near showers and baths.

Water should drain easily, so check the floor slope and tile suitability as well. For walls, waterproofing behind the tiles is essential. The wrong tile in the wrong area can lead to costly repairs. Always talk to your tiler or supplier about technical specs before buying.

18. Pick Tiles That Are Easy to Clean

Let’s be honest. Nobody wants to spend hours scrubbing grout. So, choose tiles that match your cleaning habits. Glossy and smooth tiles are easy to wipe down but show water spots.

Textured or matte tiles hide dirt better but can be harder to clean if they’re rough. If you hate cleaning, avoid heavy textures and stick to larger tiles with less grout. Practical choices don’t have to be boring, just smart.

Want spotless tiles? Check out our complete guide on how to clean bathroom tiles.

Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing Bathroom Tiles

Even the most beautiful tiles can lead to a poor outcome if they’re chosen without planning. Here are some common mistakes homeowners make during tile shopping for their bathroom:

Choosing Tiles Before Finalising Fixtures

Locking in tile choices too early can limit your options for vanities, tapware, and lighting. If you haven’t chosen your fittings yet, your tiles might not match the rest of your space.

Ignoring Slip Ratings

Some tiles may look great in a tile showroom but are dangerously slippery when wet. Not checking slip resistance is a common safety mistake, especially for bathroom floors. Tiles used in the shower and around the bath should always have a minimum slip rating.

Mixing Too Many Styles

It’s easy to get carried away with all the options, but using too many tile types creates a cluttered, disjointed look. The space might end up feeling busy instead of a dream bathroom. Keep the rule of three in mind.

Not Considering Tile Thickness

Different tiles can have slightly different thicknesses, especially when mixing materials. If you don’t check this, your finished surfaces may look uneven.

Forgetting Edge and Trim Pieces

Tile edges and corners are often left until last or forgotten entirely. This results in an unfinished look or last-minute compromises.

Now that you’ve picked your tiles, it’s time to learn how to tile your bathroom. Check out our blog for expert tips.

Discover Bathroom Tiles That Match Your Style

Now that you know how to choose bathroom tiles, it’s time to see what’s possible. Explore our curated collection of ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone bathroom tiles, all handpicked for style, durability, and function. You will find a wide range of bathroom wall tiles, shower tiles, floor tiles and even statement decorative tiles in our collection.

Our in-house interior designer, Stephanie, offers free colour consultations to help you confidently select the right bathroom tiles. You can also order free tile samples to test the look and feel in your own bathroom before you commit.

Visit our Sydney showroom today or browse online to discover tiles that elevate your bathroom from basic to beautiful.

How to Choose Bathroom Tiles FAQs

What type of tile should I use in my bathroom?

The type of tile you see depends on where the tile is going. Porcelain or ceramic tiles are best for walls and floors, and mosaic tiles for shower floors where extra grip is needed. It is important to consider the slip rating and water resistance of the tiles when placing them in wet areas.

How to choose bathroom tile colour?

Choosing the colour of your bathroom tiles can be tricky. But as a general rule, start with your bathroom’s size and lighting. Light colours make small or dark bathrooms feel bigger, while darker tones can add warmth and drama in larger spaces. Stick to a consistent palette across floor, wall and feature tiles.

Should bathroom floor and wall tiles be the same?

They can be. Matching tiles creates a seamless, modern look. Just make sure the tile is slip-rated for floors, as wall tiles are often too smooth and not safe underfoot.

How do I choose a grout colour?

Match grout to your tile for a clean and subtle look, or choose a contrasting colour to highlight the tile layout. Consider maintenance too, as darker grout hides stains better, especially on floors.

What’s the most low-maintenance tile option?

Smooth porcelain tiles are your best bet. They’re hard-wearing, easy to clean, and don’t need sealing. You should avoid textured or porous tiles if you want something low-fuss.

Are shiny or matte tiles better for the bathroom?

Yes, both of these types of tiles can work for the bathroom. Glossy tiles reflect light and work well on walls, especially in small bathrooms. Matte or textured tiles are safer and more practical for floors because they’re less slippery when wet.

What tile looks best in a shower?

Mosaic or small-format tiles are ideal for shower floors because they provide grip and follow the slope of the base. For walls, porcelain and ceramic tiles in a standout texture, colour, or pattern create a great feature.

How many different tiles should I use in a bathroom?

Stick to no more than three: one for the floor, one for the walls, and one tile for a feature wall if you want to add personality. More than that can overwhelm the space and break visual flow.