When you start planning a bathroom remodel, one of the first things you’ll spend the most time thinking about is your bathroom tiles. They’re what give your bathroom its character, but because this is a space where water is everywhere, you also have to think about how to choose bathroom tiles that will hold up over time and, more importantly, stay safe.
Nobody wants to look back on a renovation and say, “I love how it looks, but it’s a nightmare to clean,” or “The floor is so slippery I’m terrified to walk on it.” Whether you are looking for the right porcelain vs ceramic balance or trying to figure out how many bathroom tiles you need for your space, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To help you avoid those headaches, here is some honest advice on how to pick the perfect tiles for your bathroom.
Quick Comparison: Which Tile Fits Your Project?
| Tile Type | Best For | Key Advantage |
| Porcelain | Bathroom floors | Extremely durable & waterproof |
| Ceramic | Bathroom walls | Variety of colors & finishes |
| Matte Finish | Wet areas | Better slip resistance |
| Large Format | Small bathrooms | Easier cleaning & seamless look |
1. The Basics: Porcelain vs. Ceramic
When you walk into a tile shop, you’ll hear these two terms constantly. If you don’t know the difference, it’s easy to make a mistake that you’ll regret later.
- Porcelain (The Tough Choice for Floors): These tiles are fired at much higher temperatures, making them dense and nearly waterproof. They are the best option for bathroom floors because they won’t fade or wear down easily.
- Ceramic (The Designer’s Choice for Walls): Ceramic wall tiles are generally more porous and less durable than porcelain. Unless they’re specifically rated for floor use, they’re best suited for bathroom walls. Using lower-rated ceramic on a high-traffic floor can lead to cracking or moisture damage.
2. Safety First: Don’t Ignore ‘Slip-Resistance’
Before you fall in love with a pattern, think about safety—especially if you have kids or older adults living with you.
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is choosing glossy floor tiles because they look beautiful in the showroom. After installation, many realize they become much more slippery when wet than expected.
- Check the texture: Glossy, polished tiles become slippery the second they get wet. For floors, always look for tiles with a “matte” finish or a bit of texture.
- The hands-on test: Don’t just look at the tile; touch it. If you run your fingers across it, you should feel a little bit of grip. If you’re at a store, don’t be afraid to put a little water on a sample and see how it feels under your hand. If it feels slippery, walk away.
3. Size Matters for Cleaning
The more grout lines you have, the more places there are for mold and grime to hide.
- Large-format tiles: Great for modern, hotel-style bathrooms. Fewer grout lines mean way less scrubbing and a more spacious look.
- Small tiles: Great for an accent, but they come with a mountain of grout. Use these sparingly unless you enjoy frequent deep cleaning.
4. Creating That ‘Hotel Vibe’
Your choice of color and pattern can completely change the feel of the room.
Keep it consistent: Using the same tile for the walls and the floor creates a continuous look that helps a cramped bathroom feel a lot bigger.
Beige and warm grays: These are incredibly popular because they make the room feel cozy and hide water spots better than stark white.
5. Bathroom Tile Calculator: How Many Tiles Do I Need?
So, you’ve picked your style and decided on the size. Now comes the most practical part: figuring out how many tiles to order. Use the calculator below to estimate the number of tiles you’ll need, including extra tiles for cuts and waste.
Tile Estimator
* Experts advise ordering 10-15% extra for cuts, breakage, or large-format tiles.
* This provides an estimate of the minimum required quantity; actual project needs may vary.
Tip: Most bathroom projects require an additional 10–15% of tiles to cover cutting, breakage, and future repairs. If you’re installing tiles in a diagonal pattern or around many corners, consider ordering a little extra.
6. Final Tips Before You Buy
- Check them in real light: Store lighting is artificial. Try to see a sample in natural light before committing.
- Keep your batch numbers: When you receive your shipment, check that all boxes have the same batch number. This ensures the colors match perfectly. If you ever need to replace a tile years later, knowing this batch info is a lifesaver.
FAQ
Can ceramic tiles be used on bathroom floors?
Only if they are specifically rated for floor use. Generally, ceramic is more porous than porcelain, so always check the manufacturer’s rating before installing it in high-traffic or wet areas.
What size bathroom tile is easiest to clean?
Large-format tiles (like 600x600mm) are generally easier to clean because they have fewer grout lines, which significantly reduces the areas where mold and grime can accumulate.
How many extra bathroom tiles should I order?
You should always order 10–15% more than your calculated area to account for cuts, potential breakage during installation, and future repairs.
Are matte bathroom tiles better than glossy tiles?
For bathroom floors, yes. Matte tiles offer significantly better slip resistance when wet, making them the safer choice for preventing accidents.
Remodeling a bathroom is a big investment. If you focus on picking something safe, easy to clean, and that you won’t get bored of in a few years, you’ll end up with a bathroom that you actually enjoy using every single day.