How to Choose the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom
Tiles can totally change the look and feel of your bathroom. They’re not just something you walk on—they protect your walls and floors from water, make cleaning easier, and bring beauty into the space.
Ester White Gherea
By Ester White Gherea | WBN News | July 8, 2025
Tiles can totally change the look and feel of your bathroom. They’re not just something you walk on—they protect your walls and floors from water, make cleaning easier, and bring beauty into the space. But with so many styles, shapes, and materials, how do you choose the right ones?
Here’s what to think about before you even step into a tile store—and what to keep in mind after you make your choice.
1. Start with the Big Picture
Before picking colors or shapes, ask yourself:
- Who uses this bathroom?
Is it a kid’s bathroom, a guest bathroom, or the main one you use every day? - How much light is in there?
A small bathroom with no windows might need lighter-colored tiles to brighten it up. - What’s your style?
Do you like something clean and simple? Maybe bold and dramatic? Tiles can help express that.
Knowing these answers will help narrow down your options fast.
2. Choose the Right Material
Different tiles do different jobs. Some are great for walls, others for floors. Here's what you should know:
- Ceramic Tiles:
Good for walls and light-use floors. Affordable and easy to clean, but not as strong as others. - Porcelain Tiles:
Stronger and more water-resistant than ceramic. Great for bathroom floors and shower walls. Also good for homes with pets or kids! - Natural Stone (like marble or slate):
Beautiful and unique—but more expensive and needs sealing to prevent stains. - Glass Tiles:
Pretty for accents and backsplashes. Not for floors—they’re too slippery!
💡 Tip: Always check the tile’s “slip resistance” rating (called a COF rating). For floors, especially in wet bathrooms, choose something that’s not too slippery.
3. Plan Your Layout and Size
- Big tiles can make a small bathroom feel larger.
- Small tiles, like mosaics, are great for curved surfaces or shower floors (they add grip!).
- Vertical tiles can make the room feel taller.
- Horizontal tiles can make it feel wider.
Mixing shapes and sizes can be beautiful—but it should still feel calm and connected. You don’t want the floor fighting with the walls for attention!
4. Color and Grout: Don’t Skip These!
- Light tiles feel clean and open but show dirt more easily.
- Dark tiles hide grime better but can make a room feel smaller.
Grout (the stuff between the tiles) matters too:
- Matching grout gives a seamless look.
- Contrasting grout makes the pattern pop—but it needs to be cleaned more often.
Seal your grout to prevent stains and mold!
5. Before You Go Tile Shopping
✅ Measure everything—walls, floors, shower areas. Add 10% extra for cuts and mistakes.
✅ Know your budget—tiles can range from a few dollars to hundreds per square foot!
✅ Collect inspiration—bring photos of styles you love. It helps the salesperson guide you.
✅ Check samples in your own bathroom—lighting changes how colors look!
6. After You Choose: Plan the Installation
Whether you hire a pro or do it yourself, here’s what to remember:
- Make sure surfaces are level and dry.
- Start tiling from the center, not the edge. It helps keep the look balanced.
- Don’t rush the drying or sealing process. Be patient—it’s worth it!
Final Thoughts
Choosing bathroom tiles isn’t just about what looks nice—it’s about picking the right surface for a space that deals with water, steam, soap, and life! When you take time to plan and choose wisely, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, functional bathroom for years to come.
💬 Let’s Talk Tiles!
Thinking of redoing your bathroom or just curious about what would work best in your space? Send me a message. I’d love to help you pick tiles that not only look amazing but also last a long, long time.
Ester White Gherea is an Interior Designer and the founder of Gherea Studios.
She can be reached at 236-339-6644 or estergherea@gmail.com. Connect with Ester on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ester-white-gherea-6b339a2b5/. Connect with Ester at https://www.ghereastudio.com/.
TAGS: #InteriorDesign #TimelessStyle #DesignTrends #HomeDecor #ModernLiving #StylishSpaces #GhereaStudio #WBN News Langley #WBN News Abbotsford #Ester White Gherea
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