Introduction
Choosing the right grout color for your backsplash can make a huge difference in the overall look and feel of your kitchen. The grout lines act as accents against the backsplash tiles, so selecting a grout color that complements or contrasts with your tile can really enhance the design.
There are a few main factors to consider when determining what color grout for backsplash will work best:
- The color and style of the backsplash tiles
- The color scheme of the kitchen
- Whether you want the grout to blend in or stand out
- Practical factors like stain resistance and ease of cleaning
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through all the different grout color options for backsplashes and help you select the perfect hue. We’ll cover popular grout colors like white, gray, and black, along with more unique choices like navy blue or metallic gold. We’ll also provide tips on choosing grout based on tile material and color.
By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident picking a grout color that will look beautiful and stay looking fresh in your kitchen backsplash for years to come. Let’s get started!
Popular Grout Colors for Backsplashes
Here are some of the most popular grout colors used in backsplash designs:
White Grout
White grout is a versatile neutral that can work well with almost any color of backsplash tile. It has a clean, crisp look that enhances lighter tiles without drawing too much attention. White grout highlights the backsplash design rather than competing with it.
Pros:
- Brightens up the kitchen
- Matches with any style of tile
- Easy to keep looking clean
Cons:
- Can stain or discolor over time
- Shows dirt easily
- Not ideal for dark tiles
White grout pairs beautifully with subway tiles, marble, and other light-colored stone or ceramic tiles. It works best for a backsplash with minimal pattern or veining that you want to highlight.
Gray Grout
Gray is quickly becoming one of the most popular grout colors for backsplashes. A soft, neutral gray adds subtle contrast against many tile styles without being as high-maintenance as bright white grout.
Pros:
- More stain-resistant than white
- Matches with almost any color palette
- Looks sophisticated and modern
Cons:
- Still shows some dirt over time
- Can look dull with some very vibrant tiles
From pale smoke gray to charcoal, gray grout is an excellent choice for coordinating with cool-toned tiles like marble, travertine, or slate. It also contrasts nicely with warm materials like terracotta.
Black Grout
Black grout makes a dramatic, high-contrast statement against lighter tiles. It creates a modern, sleek look in contemporary kitchens.
Pros:
- Looks incredibly modern and stylish
- Disguises dirt and stains well
- Makes tile patterns pop
Cons:
- Can look too harsh or stark with some tiles
- Requires vigilance to keep mold-free
Vivid white subway tiles paired with jet black grout is a popular backsplash choice. Black grout also adds bold definition to glass, marble, or stone with veining and patterns.
Beige Grout
For a natural, earthy aesthetic, beige grout brings a subtle warmth that enhances stone or ceramic tiles. It allows the textures and veining of the tiles to take center stage.
Pros:
- Warm, neutral color blends well
- Doesn’t fight with stone or natural tiles
- Helps conceal dirt or stains
Cons:
- Can look dirty if allowed to discolor
- Not a dramatic accent
Beige grout works beautifully with stones like marble, travertine, limestone, and natural ceramic tiles. It feels casual, organic, and laid-back.
Choosing Grout Color Based on Tile
The color and style of your backsplash tile should play a major role in determining which grout color will look best. Here are some popular backsplash tile types and the grout colors that tend to complement them well:
Subway Tile Backsplash
The classic 3×6 white subway tile backsplash looks gorgeous framed with either bright white, soft gray, or even black grout. Gray and black grout add subtle contrast and a more contemporary vibe.
Other colored subway tiles like blue, green, or terra cotta look better with white or matching grout. A busy patterned subway tile backsplash benefits from beige or gray grout.
Marble Tile Backsplash
Elegant marble backsplashes with veining and patterns pop when framed with white, gray, or beige grout. Darker charcoal grout can also accentuate the depth and patterns beautifully.
Colored marble varieties like green or pink look best with white grout. Black, gray, or matching grout with tinted marble can feel too busy.
Travertine Tile Backsplash
For travertine, beige is the most popular grout choice. The natural, earthy color of the stone is enhanced by the warmth of beige grout. Gray can also look modern and stylish with travertine.
Avoid white or black grout with travertine, as it will create too much contrast and fight with the aesthetic of the stone. Always fill the pits in the stone before grouting.
Glass Tile Backsplash
With glass tiles, white and gray grout are best for accentuating each individual tile. Black grout adds dramatic punctuation between the colors. Matching or contrasting grout showcases the mosaic pattern.
Metallic glass tiles should be paired with white or gray grout. The shimmering effect comes through best against neutral grout.
Stone Mosaic Backsplash
For mosaics made of stone like marble, travertine, or slate, beige grout lends a natural look, while gray and white grout help the individual tiles stand out. Black grout brings high contrast for stone mosaic patterns.
Match colored grout to the tones within the mosaic tiles for a cohesive look. Varying grout colors between mosaic sheets can look disjointed.
Factors that Influence Grout Color Choice
Beyond just matching the tile itself, there are a few other factors to consider when selecting your backsplash grout:
Kitchen Color Scheme and Style
The overall colors used in your kitchen design should inform your grout choice. For a white kitchen with neutral tones, white grout ties everything together. In a kitchen with cool gray and blue accents, soft gray grout coordinates well.
Beige or tan grout enhances a warm, Tuscan style kitchen. Black grout fits best in a dramatic, contemporary space. Pick a grout hue that feels cohesive.
Aesthetic Preference
Do you want the grout to blend in subtly or make a bold statement? White and beige grout fades into the background while black and darker hues stand out starkly. Gray offers a versatile middle ground. Decide the vibe you want.
Stain Resistance
If stain resistance is a practical concern, white grout requires diligent sealing and cleaning. Beige and gray hide stains better over time. Epoxy grout is the most stain-proof option but limit color choices.
Tile Size and Pattern
Small, intricate tiles or mosaics need thin grout lines that won’t overpower the design. Bigger tiles can handle thicker lines and a bold grout color. Match or contrast the grout to fit the tile pattern.
DIY vs Pro Install
For DIY, choose an forgiving grout color like beige or gray. White shows imperfections. Black requires expert technique. Pay pros for a flawless black, white, or specialty grout installation.
Unique Grout Colors and Options for Backsplashes
Looking to make a statement and choose something beyond basic white, gray, or beige grout? Here are some unique backsplash grout ideas:
Navy Blue Grout
Deep blue offers a sophisticated alternative to black. It pops against white or soft colored stone tiles, within a colorful mosaic, or flanking glass tiles.
Green Grout
Vivid green grout can match green glass, marble, or bright ceramic tiles. Soft sage works as an earthy neutral with stone. It needs just the right tile colors.
Metallic Grout
Shimmering metallic grout like bronze, silver, or gold adds glamorous sparkle. It works best with glass or marble tiles. Expect to pay more for specialty metallic grout.
Clear Grout
Nearly invisible clear epoxy grout disappears between backsplash tiles for a seamless look. Use with stone, glass, or mosaics. It lacks the clean, defined lines of colored grout.
Contrasting Colors
Matching your grout color to a dominant tile tone is one option. Alternatively, go for high contrast with a complementary color for added drama.
Combination Grout
Get creative by using two grout colors strategically on your backsplash, like white on the outer border and gray on inner sections. Recently gaining popularity, combo grout adds interest. Be intentional with the design.
Grout Color Do’s and Don’ts
Some final best practices when selecting the ideal grout color include:
DO
- Pick a gray or beige grout for a foolproof, attractive choice
- Consider the overall kitchen colors and style
- Choose white grout if you like a fresh, clean look
- Use black grout if seeking a modern, dramatic effect
- Look at grout lines in person before selecting a color
DON’T
- Use white grout with dark natural stone tiles
- Choose black grout for a softly colored marble backsplash
- Use bright green grout just because it matches the tiles
- Mix multiple bold grout colors randomly
- Make a hasty grout decision without viewing tile samples
Grout Color FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about choosing grout color for a backsplash:
What color grout is most popular for backsplashes?
White and gray grout are currently the most popular choices. They offer a clean, classic look. Gray is gaining favor for its subtle contrast.
Does grout color matter?
Absolutely! Grout color has a big impact on the overall look and will either blend in or stand out noticeably. You want to enhance, not fight, your tiles.
Should I match grout color to tile?
Not always. Sometimes tonal matching looks cohesive, but for many tiles, contrasting grout complements better. Coordinate with the tile rather than trying to camouflage.
Can I use two different grout colors?
Yes, combining two grout colors adds character. Use one color for the main field, the other to outline or frame the tiles. Balance contrast and match.
What color grout is easiest to keep clean?
Beige and gray grout resist stains better over time than white, which shows dirt easily. Epoxy grout is most durable and stain-proof.
Conclusion
The grout color you select can make or break the look of your backsplash. Take into account your tile choice, kitchen colors and style, preference for contrast, and practical concerns.
Popular grout shades like white, gray, beige and black are safe choices, but also consider navy, green, metallic or other unique colors if they coordinate well. Mixing two grout colors is also an option.
Most importantly, look at physical samples of your actual tile and grout together before deciding. This will give you the best sense of the finished look. With the right grout color choice, your backsplash will be both beautiful and functional for years to come.
So for what color grout for backsplash best suits your kitchen?
What Color Grout for Backsplash – White Grout
White grout is one of the most common and popular choices for backsplash grout colors. The timeless, clean look of white grout frames and accents backsplash tiles beautifully.
Here are some benefits of using white grout on a kitchen backsplash:
- Brightens up the space – White reflects light and makes kitchens feel open and airy. It creates a fresh look.
- Matches any tile material or color – Unlike beige or gray grout that can sometimes clash with certain tiles, white is a neutral that complements any style.
- Crisp, defined lines – White grout provides separation and definition between backsplash tiles, unlike clear grout that blends tiles together seamlessly.
- Classic, elegant style – White grout has an enduring look popularized by subway tile backsplashes but works with any style from vintage to modern.
- Highlights tile texture – Against a white backdrop, the natural veining and patterns of stone tiles become more prominent.
There are a few downsides to be aware of with white grout:
- Shows dirt easily – White grout requires regular cleaning to maintain its bright appearance over time.
- Can stain – White grout needs to be sealed carefully and is prone to discoloration from moisture or foods.
- Not ideal with dark tiles – Against very dark backsplash tiles, white grout stands out too starkly and creates visual breaks.
So in summary, white grout is an optimal choice that looks beautiful framing lighter colored backsplash tiles in any style kitchen. Keeping the grout lines clean and sealed is necessary for white grout to maintain its luminous, fresh look over the years.
What Color Grout for Backsplash – Gray Grout
For those seeking an alternative to glaring white, gray grout is fast becoming one of the most sought-after backsplash grout colors. Subtle, sophisticated gray adds stylish contrast to tiles without being high maintenance.
Reasons gray grout for backsplash is surging in popularity:
- Cool, neutral tone – Gray works well with both warm and cool color schemes, adding a hint of contrast without deviating too far from a neutral backdrop.
- More stain-resistant – Lighter grays hide stains better than white grout over time. Darker charcoal grays disguise even more.
- Matches any style – From modern to farmhouse, gray grout complements a wide range of kitchen designs and tile materials.
- Defines tile pattern – Gray allows the veining and textures of natural stone backsplash tiles to take center stage while adding subtle contrast.
- Sophisticated effect – Gray grout looks tailored and elegant, elevating simple white subway tiles or a marble mosaic.
Downsides to consider with gray grout:
- Still shows some dirt – While better than white, gray grout requires occasional scrubbing to keep its color true.
- Can appear dull – Alongside very bold or vibrant tiles, soft gray grout may seem too subdued.
- Fewer dramatic options – Gray doesn’t allow the striking black-and-white contrast that defines some backsplash designs.
For most backsplash styles, gray offers the perfect balance of highlight and neutral background. It provides definition without starkness for a fashionable, versatile option.
What Color Grout for Backsplash – Beige Grout
For a natural, earthy backsplash aesthetic, beige grout provides subtle warmth that enlivens stone and ceramic tiles beautifully.
Here are some benefits of choosing beige grout for backsplash:
- Warm, welcoming color – The soft yet lively hue of beige injects organic energy into any kitchen.
- Complements natural materials – Beige enhances stones like travertine and marble without competing for attention.
- Camouflages dirt – Compared to white and gray, beige grout is more forgiving of dirt and stains over time.
- Casual style – Beige grout lends a laidback, Tuscan feel that works well in informal kitchen spaces.
- Flexible pairing – From ceramic to granite, beige grout suits an array of backsplash tiles.
Some possible drawbacks to keep in mind:
- Can seem dirty – If not cleaned regularly, beige grout may acquire a dingy, aged appearance.
- Lacks contrast – For tiles with defined patterns, beige grout does not provide much accent or separation.
- Limited options – Beige does not offer the dramatic punch of black grout or modern edge of gray.
Overall, warm beige grout complements backsplash tiles that have natural texture and earthy tones. It should be sealed and maintained properly to prevent a dirty, worn-out look over time.
What Color Grout for Backsplash – Black Grout
For contemporary, eye-catching style, black grout in a backsplash makes a serious dramatic statement. The deep, dark color plays boldly against lighter tiles.
Reasons black grout is so popular for backsplashes:
- Sleek, modern look – Black grout paired with glossy subway tiles evokes upscale urban lofts and ultra-contemporary kitchens.
- High contrast pop – Vivid white or colored tiles against jet black grout makes patterns vividly stand out.
- Disguises dirt – Black grout’s dark color hides grease, food stains, and watermarks well with proper sealing.
- Shows off veining – In stone tiles like marble, black grout accentuates the depth and dimension of grey veining.
- Matte finish – Unlike glossy white grout, flat black grout minimizes light reflection.
Downsides of black grout to be aware of:
- Can feel too harsh – Black high contrast doesn’t suit all soft or intricately patterned tiles.
- Requires diligence – Black grout needs vigilant cleaning to prevent mold or mildew growth in kitchens.
- Challenging installation – Imperfect application of black grout will be glaringly obvious; best left to experts.
For those desiring a bold, eye-catching backsplash, black grout rarely disappoints. Pair it with simple tiles to let the dramatic color effect shine.
What Color Grout for Backsplash – Unique Options
Beyond basic white, beige, gray and black grout, some unique backsplash grout color options add