Best Tiles for Shower Walls of 2021

Choosing the color of tile and best tile for shower walls is often considered an afterthought by many designers and homeowners - but this is a rookie mistake. Selecting the right tiles can set the mood and tone of the entire room, and have a huge impact on the other fixtures and fittings which prove to be the perfect match.

There are different kinds of tile, ceramic tiles, porcelain tile, shower wall tile, mosaic tile, wood look like tile, high end, etc. Also different sizes, there are small tiles and larger tile. As a result, they are key aspects of the overall aesthetic, and require as much care, thought and dedication as any other feature.

With so many options available however, making the right choice can be a challenge - this is where our invaluable expertise can be a real help. Keep in mind when choosing, whether you are overhauling the whole bathroom, or just fancy an update, read on to discover everything you need to know.

Quick Comparison of our Top Picks

Shower Tile Reviews

The types, color and material of shower tile you choose can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your shower space. With so many options available, however, it can be tricky to make the best decision. Read on for some of our most popular options, and transform your space from dingy to dramatic in no time.

Eye Catching, vibrant and stylish, these stunning ‘Stone Age’ tiles tick every box. Blue crystal glass interlocks with stunning natural stone to create a contemporary pattern which will be the centre of attention for all the right reasons. The inclusion of natural stones lends a beachy, earthy vibe to the overall look, and ensures that no two tiles look the same; they all contain their own unique quirks and discolorations for a truly unique and authentic final look.

Bring the heart of the ocean right into your shower with this gorgeous tile, and instantly brighten up a dull, tired looking space. Whether you mix them up, cover a wall, or blend with another color or style, the end result is sure to be truly breathtaking.

With a distinctive and unique hexagonal pattern, these Stone Center tiles were designed to be noticed, and will instantly upgrade the look, feel and quality of your shower space. (1) Top-quality carrara marble pieces gently interlock in a stunning pattern which brings life and vibrancy to your shower, as well as allowing you to emulate breathtaking Italian spaces in the comfort of your own home.

Embrace your inner god or goddess, and take your showers to the next level - all without breaking the bank, leaving you with more cash to splash in other areas of the space! Flexibility and versatility are also key aspects of these tile; at just one inch in diameter, they can be combined and connected in any way you like, allowing you to enjoy a totally individual and customized final design - no need to worry about inadvertently copying the neighbors bathroom aesthetic!

Crafted from stunning marble and glass this Hominter mosaic style tile allows you to mix and match to create a unique, stunning finish which is the perfect fit for your bathroom and shower space. The tile use natural marble chips, and these come with a fantastic variation in color and shade, adding a real natural, authentic feel to the final result.

Blend these with bright, colorful teal glass and instantly add a touch of fun to your shower, as well as bringing the beauty of the water to life. Whether you are looking to emulate a Roman palace, or simply add a splash of color to an otherwise dull wall, these Hominter tiles are the perfect option.

With quirky rounded edges, these amazing tile from Blue Jellyfish will allow you to bring the feel and look of the beach to the comfort and convenience of your own shower. Stylish, quirky and designed to be different, the pieces are constructed from quality glazed porcelain, and come in a variety of bright, vibrant colors which will liven up even the darkest of spaces. This is the perfect way to feel as though you are on vacation even in the depths of winter, and are sure to bring a smile to your face even after the toughest day at work! Transform your shower from functional to fun, and transport yourself to warmer climes with every trip to the shower.

Crafted from 100% genuine, premium mother of pearl, these gorgeous mosaic tiles are the perfect chance to add a touch of glamour and elegance to any bathroom space. They are long lasting and easy to clean, allowing you to enjoy their smooth, sleek style for longer, and the natural gleam of the material ensures that they will stand out for all the right reasons.

The inclusion of a genuine, natural sea shell increases the quality of the tile, and ensures that you will enjoy that authentic beachy vibe from the convenience of your shower. As an added bonus, you can enjoy a real sense of luxury and elegance from such a first-class material - embrace your inner mermaid with every shower! All you need to do is inhale, and you will be sure to smell the salty scent of a soothing ocean breeze…

Looking to really bring the outside indoors? This stunning design from Homiter is fun, fresh and sure to add a vibrant feel to your space. The hand painted nature of each tile means that you can enjoy an eclectic mix where no two pieces are the same - and there is no need to worry about having the same interior design as your neighbour! Mix and match the tiles to create a unique, personal look, and enjoy the quality colors as they lift your space and your mood.

As an added bonus, the glossy design means that you can instantly upgrade the look and feel of any space - these tile look and feel far more expensive than they truly are. You can enjoy a sophisticated, to-quality look, without worrying about breaking the bank - this really is a chance to enjoy the very best of both worlds!

With a distinctive hexagonal design and glossy white finish, these standout tiles are the perfect way to lift and brighten a dark, dreary shower space. The repeating pattern is hypnotic and eye-catching, allowing you to make a statement with absolute minimal effort! Constructed from high-quality marble, these are a sleek and luxurious option which help to lift the mood and feel of the entire bathroom space in an instant. The inclusion of subtle gold veins also adds a real touch of class; this is an amazing opportunity to replicate that opulent, five star hotel feel right in the comfort and convenience of your very own bathroom! A truly sophisticated, elegant tile, this is the perfect pick if you are searching for the ‘wow’ factor.

With only premium Italian marble included in construction, you can rest assured that these stunning pieces will last the test and time, and will be able to see you through plenty of showers for years to come! They are a perfect investment, and can really add that finishing touch of pure luxury to your bathroom, helping upgrade your shower experience with each and every use.

With clean lines and a neat finish, these are the perfect tiles for those looking to create a stylist, minimalist space in their shower, perhaps in conjunction with a larger theme or aesthetic. The end result is pleasing on the eye, and the repetitive pattern is almost soothing to explore - all essential assets if you are looking for a relaxing, spa-like shower experience. Constructed from a genuine mother of pearl, each and every tile is unique, and this is a great way to tailor your decoration to your exact needs and preferences. (2)

The use of mother of pearl also helps to ensure longevity and durability; both important factors when renovating your bathroom space. As an added bonus, the tiles are sleek and smooth, making them super easy to keep clean and free from grime - this means one less chore to worry about every day! Blend super style with functionality, and enjoy a beautiful, high-class finish which helps transform your shower space into a soothing, spa-like sanctuary.

With soothing, warm colours, the nuances and eccentricities of natural stone, and a finish which is cool to the touch, these incredible pieces from Marble ‘N’ Things are the perfect opportunity to add that Mediterranean vibe to the comfort of your own home, and transform a simple shower into a relaxing experience. These are tile designed to create a vibe, and you can simply lie back, relax and enjoy the sound of the ocean - all without having to climb on a plane!

Made from quality marble, the tile are designed to stand the test of time, and can be the answer to a full bathroom upgrade without the need to change anything else. Installation of these tile will instantly transform your entire space, allowing you to craft your very own relaxation point, and unwind in pure bliss and serious style.

These gorgeous mosaic tiles from Mnt are the perfect option to add a rich, warm feeling to your shower - you can surround yourself with sunshine even on the dreariest of days. As an added bonus, you are in complete control of your style and design - the tile are lightweight enough to be cut with a simple pair of household scissors, allowing you to mix and match, creating a style which is the perfect match to your overall aesthetic.

Individuality can also be achieved thanks to the use of natural stone. This allows for the fluctuations and unique nuances of the material to shine through; no two tile are really the same. In addition to offering a stunning, rustic design, this also allows you to bring the feel of the outdoors into the comfort of your own home - simply kick back and relax, surrounded by authentic local stone - the perfect chance to bring the tranquility of the spa into every shower you enjoy.

With a sleek, chic finish, this mother of pearl design is the perfect way to add a touch of class and glamour to any bathroom, and will help to upgrade the look and feel of your shower. Constructed from natural mother of pearl you can enjoy the benefits of the natural world every time you enter the space, offering a soothing ocean vibe which will relax every cell of your body in no time. A highly polished surface is easy to clean and maintain, meaning that this is a simple, low-maintenance option, which refuses to skimp on quality.

The natural material comes with the nuances and unique flecks of the mother of pearl, and this means that you can guarantee a unique, stylish design not found anywhere else - no two tile are the same, and this is an amazing chance to bring the beauty of nature into the comfort of your home.

Buyers’ Guide - How To Choose The Perfect Shower Tiles

Materials

When choosing a new set of tile for your bathroom, the first consideration you will need to make is of course the materials you desire. There are certain materials that lend themselves beautifully to a bathroom space; these have specific properties and designs which help them to withstand moisture and water, and which will still look great in hot, steamy conditions.

Stone is a great example of this, and remains a popular choice when it comes to picking bathroom tile; these can also offer a rustic, farmhouse vibe to your space. Marble is another popular option, largely due to the ease of cleaning and the chic, elegant finish. Doing your research can help you narrow down your options and choose a material that is both suitable, and a perfect match for your desired aesthetic.

Color

The color scheme you choose will depend largely on the mood and tone you want to set in your bathroom floors and walls, and so forms an integral aspect of the design. For small spaces, consider a bright, vibrant finish which opens up the room and keeps the shower looking clean and bright. Alternatively, opt for a darker, more muted shade if you are not a fan of cleaning - avoid back here though, as it can really show up the dirt.

If you are planning to use your shower space as the ultimate relaxation zone, it is a good idea to go for soothing, relaxing colors which will really help you to unwind and drift away - think of it as building your own mini spa in the comfort of your own bathroom! For those who like to switch up accessories on a regular basis, go for neutral - this makes it super easy to change towels, ornaments and even paint work with minimal fuss

Maintenance

It is important to remember that different types of tile will require different amounts of attention and maintenance, and this can have a significant impact on your choice. If the shower is used more than anything else in the room, consider something which can be easily wiped down after each use with minimal fuss - perfect for a high traffic area, or a busy family with mucky children!

Some materials will also last longer than other type of tile, so while the initial investment cost may seem high, weigh this up against potential longevity; it may work out more cost effective to invest a larger sum in the early stages, and save a job down the line. (3)

Shape and Size 

The shape and size of the tile you pick will also have a huge impact on the overall aesthetic of your bathroom tile and walls, and this is also important to consider - ceramic tile or porcelain tile. Smaller bathroom spaces will benefit from large format tile - this helps to really open up space, offering a lighter, more spacious feel. Alternatively, small tile create a busy, vibrant environment - perfect if you want a shower to be a place to wake you up in the morning or turn the shower into a real focal point of the room. Unique shapes design ideas such as hexagons tile are also good for transforming a mere shower wall into a real work of art, and livening up an otherwise dull or ignored space.

Cost

Overhauling your bathroom can be an expensive undertaking, and budget is sure to be a major concern in your choice of tile. It is important to note that, as we discussed earlier, more expensive options here could actually save you valuable cash in the long run, and so may offer a more sensible investment choice. Alternatively, there are some amazing bargains which perfectly emulate the look, feel and design of more expensive materials - these can be a perfect opportunity to transform your shower space without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is it worth investing in tile?

Bathroom tile is likely to be a major focal point, but the surface area you need to cover can be extensive - and this can be pricey. In some cases, it can be tempting to opt for a cheaper material in an attempt to cut costs. Remember, however, that the bathroom is a very specific environment; it is humid, damp, and likely to be fairly warm. Over time, cheaper tiles may become discolored or cracked, unable to cope with the conditions. It is always worth investing in higher quality, slip resistance - these materials are more likely to be finished and sealed properly, helping to make them more resilient under pressure.

Can I use floor tile on the wall?

In most cases, it is recommended that you use tiles designed for a specific region; that is, floor tiles on the floor, and wall tiles on the wall. This is largely due to the design and finish of the material; a wall tile is not designed for a slippery bathroom, and so may become dangerous when wet. With so many amazing choices available for wall tile, you certainly won’t be short of options!

The Final Verdict

Tile for your shower floor and bathroom walls is an important step; it can really transform the whole look, feel and environment of the space. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming - so how do you make the perfect tile selection? Well, if you've made it this far you're in great shape because you've seen all the year's top picks all in one place.

They are bright, vibrant and durable, perfect for lifting any space, and transforming a simple bathroom into a blissful, slip resistance, spa-like sanctuary which will transform every shower into a real treat.

Not done building the shower you've always dreamt of? Check out our top massaging shower heads to bring the spa into your home, or our homepage for our full list of goodies!

References

1. https://www.houzz.co.uk/magazine/how-tiny-hexagon-tiles-can-elevate-your-bathrooms-style-stsetivw-vs~98402601
2. https://www.tilecircle.com/blog/mother-of-pearl-tile-facts/#:~:text=A%20great%20aspect%20about%20mother,give%20off%20an%20unmatched%20sheen.
3. https://www.bristan.com/homeowners-home/homeowners-inspiration/making-the-most-of-your-bathroom-on-a-budget