A kitchen backsplash can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your kitchen. The right backsplash can pull a space together, add pops of color, make the space feel brighter and more welcoming, or help create the style you’re envisioning. With so many backsplash options to choose from, deciding on the right material for your kitchen can feel overwhelming. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular backsplash materials to help guide you.

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is one of the most versatile and commonly used backsplash materials. It comes in a vast array of sizes, shapes, colors, textures, and patterns. Ceramic tiles are durable, easy to clean, and stain resistant. Here are some pros and cons for using ceramic tile:

Pros

• Endless design options
• Easy to clean
• Durable and scratch resistant
• Affordable option

Cons

• Installation can be tricky for DIY
• Grout lines may need regular maintenance
• Can chip or crack if hit hard

Some popular options for ceramic tile backsplashes include:

• Subway tile – classic rectangular tile in white, light grey, or color
• Mosaic tile – small uniform squares create a mosaic pattern
• Handpainted tile – decorative Spanish-style tile
• Metallic tile – adds glitz and shine

Ceramic tile comes in a variety of price points, making it accessible for nearly any budget. Going with a classic white subway tile is an easy choice that looks great in both modern and traditional kitchens. Or make a statement with handpainted, colorful Mediterranean tiles or glass mosaic tiles.

Stone Tile

Stone tile brings natural texture and beauty into the kitchen. Types of stone commonly used for backsplashes include:

• Marble – elegant veining with upscale look
• Travertine – rustic, earthy surface with holes
• Granite – speckled minerals make each piece unique
• Slate – layered, foliated surface with earth tones

Some benefits of stone tile:

Pros:

• Natural material has beautiful variations
• Can last for decades
• Adds visual interest and dimension

Cons:

• More expensive than ceramic
• Sealing required to prevent staining
• Heavy, so professional installation advised

Stone tiles come in an array of sizes, shapes, finishes (honed, polished, tumbled, etc.) and colors like white Carrara, green serpentine, black granite and more. Smaller stone tiles or mosaics make for easier DIY installation. Larger format stone slab backsplashes create a seamless, upscale look.

Stainless Steel

A stainless steel backsplash brings an ultra modern, industrial chic look to the kitchen. Pros of stainless steel backsplashes include:

Pros:

• Sleek, contemporary visual appeal
• Very durable and dent-resistant
• Easy to clean and sanitize
• Can be used as a full backsplash or focal accent

Cons:

• Can show fingerprints, water spots, and smudges
• Lacks color and visual texture
• Higher cost than some other materials

Brushed stainless has a matte finish that helps hide smudges and fingerprints. Combining stainless steel backsplash tiles with accent tiles in colorful glass or porcelain can add a fun pop of color. Stainless steel backsplashes work especially well with professional-grade appliances and industrial kitchen styles.

Glass Tile

With its luminous, liquid-like appearance, glass tile is a gorgeous choice for kitchen backsplashes. Options include:

• Clear glass – mimics the look of natural stone
• Colored glass – adds brilliant pops of color
• Recycled glass – ethically sourced from recycled bottles
• Frosted or etched glass – obscures the view while transmitting light

Some benefits of glass tile:

Pros:

• Reflective, jewel-like appearance
• Available in many colors, finishes, and textures
• Smooth surface is easy to keep clean
• Can be used alone or mixed with other tiles

Cons:

• Translucent glass can show wall flaws
• Grout can be tricky and staining may occur
• Not as durable as ceramic or stone

Small glass mosaic tiles are especially popular, often arranged in eye-catching patterns. Mixing frosted and clear glass tiles together adds nice visual depth. For a low maintenance option, large-format glass tiles can create a sleek, seamless look.

Natural Stone Slab

For a seamless, luxurious look, a natural stone slab backsplash creates a stunning statement. Materials like marble, granite, limestone or soapstone can be purchased in large slabs and installed as full backsplashes.

Pros:

• Sophisticated, high-end visual appeal
• Fewer grout lines for easier cleaning
• Each piece has unique natural veining

Cons:

• More expensive, often requires professional fabrication and installation
• Sealing required to prevent staining
• Heavy weight requires reinforced wall support

Advantages of a full slab backsplash are the seamless look and less grout to maintain. However, the installation process is much more involved than installing tile. Natural stone slabs require precise cutting and reinforcement to properly support the weight.

Engineered Quartz

For a sleek, contemporary look, engineered quartz is growing in popularity for kitchen backsplashes. Quartz combines ground natural stone with resin for a durable, low-maintenance surface.

Pros:

• Continuous, groutless surface
• Stain, scratch and heat resistant
• Color consistency for seamless look
• Easy maintenance

Cons:

• Higher cost than ceramic or glass tile
• Fewer color options than natural stone
• Requires professional cutting and installation

With its crisp, uniform appearance, quartz makes a smart choice for modern kitchens. And because it’s an engineered stone, quartz has excellent durability and resistance to stains, scratches and heat. Common brand names for quartz backsplashes include Silestone, Caesarstone and Cambria.

Metal Tiles

For an industrial edge, metal backsplash tiles are available in stainless steel, copper, brass, and other metals. Some benefits of metal tile:

Pros:

• Sleek, polished and modern aesthetic
• Extremely durable and easy to clean
• Can mix metals like brass and nickel for contrast
• Provides soundproofing

Cons:

• Tend to be on the pricier side
• Can show fingerprints, oils, and water spots
• Requires skillful installation to align tiles

Copper and brass metal tiles will patina naturally over time for an antiqued look. Stainless steel remains polished and shiny. Using metal tiles allows you to mix and match coordinating metals for custom designing. Pair with glass mosaic tiles or porcelain tiles to offset the contemporary vibe.

Porcelain, Ceramic or Stone Tile Sheets

Backsplash sheets provide a seamless alternative to installed backsplash tiles. Materials like porcelain, ceramic or engineered stone are joined together into large sheets that can be applied as a backsplash.

Pros:

• Quick and easy DIY installation
• Continuous surface without seams or grout
• Materials have color consistency

Cons:

• Fewer size, texture and pattern options than tile
• Prone to damage if hit or punctured
• Long-term durability not yet known

Backsplash sheets go directly over existing walls, adhered with mastic or mortar adhesive. The seamed edges are hidden with trim pieces for a unified look. The ease of installation and continuous surface make backsplash sheets enticing. However, there are fewer design options compared to individually installed tiles.

Wood Planks

A reclaimed wood backsplash adds rustic, natural beauty to a kitchen. Wood varieties like cypress, cedar and fir make excellent choices.

Pros:

• Warm, organic ambiance
• Eco-friendly if using reclaimed wood
• Naturally moisture and stain-resistant
• Can be whitewashed or stained for color

Cons:

• Prone to warping if exposed to moisture
• Requires sealing to prevent stains, odors
• Not heat or water-resistant

Thin planks of salvaged barnwood work especially well for quick and easy installation. The wood can be installed horizontally, vertically or in geometric patterns. For protection and stain resistance, use a natural wood sealer. Distressed, weathered wood finishes showcase the natural grain patterns beautifully.

Painted Drywall

Painting the drywall is an affordable and customizable backsplash option. Nearly any color can be achieved with quality primer and acrylic latex paint.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly DIY project
• Any paint color and finish can be used
• Fresh paint updates worn walls

Cons:

• Less durable than tile or stone
• Needs periodic repainting as paint wears
• Provides fewer textures than other materials

Prepping the walls properly and applying two coats of kitchen-grade acrylic latex paint results in a washable, protective finish. For added wipeability, mix a clear coat of polyurethane sealer into the top coat of paint. Pair with trim pieces for a polished look.

Penny Tiles

Vintage-inspired penny tile backsplashes revive classic charm with their small round tiles reminiscent of pennies. Typically made of porcelain or ceramic, penny tiles come glazed or unglazed.

Pros:

• Timeless retro aesthetic
• Can create fun patterns when installed
• Durable porcelain or ceramic composition
• Provides a pop of color

Cons:

• Tedious installation with grout lines
• Grout needs sealing to prevent staining
• Glossy finish shows dirt, water spots

To install penny tile backsplashes, small tiles are adhered piece-by-piece in a grid pattern. Contrasting grout lines create decorative interest. Group color families in patchwork patterns or designs. Keep walls neutral to allow the tiles to stand out.

Beaded Board

Embossed wood paneling, often called beadboard, makes for a charming cottage style backsplash. Available in ready-to-install sheets, beadboard is an easy DIY option.

Pros:

• Classic country kitchen element
• Budget-friendly prefab sheets
• Easy and quick to install
• Can paint any color

Cons:

• Provides minimal protection from moisture and heat
• Faux boards lack depth of real wood planks
• Needs caulking between boards to prevent moisture

Standard beadboard sheets come with a white enameled surface. For color options, use acrylic latex paint over properly primed panels. Install sheets horizontally, and finish edges with trim molding for a built-in look. Add CRUDs for country appeal.

Crushed Glass

For glittery drama, crushed glass backsplashes add ambient shimmer and texture. Finely crushed recycled glass pieces are tumbled until smooth.

Pros:

• Embedded glass particles catch and reflect light
• Recycled material is sustainable
• Available in a rainbow of colors
• Durable and water-resistant

Cons:

• Difficult DIY installation
• Grout requires sealing to prevent staining
• Does not work with all design styles

The crushed glass pieces are mixed into epoxy or thinset mortar and troweled onto the wall. Metallic and iridescent glass types can create dazzling results. Combines beautifully with mosaic tiles or porcelain.

Faux Brick

Brick backsplashes bring vintage industrial flair inside with the look of exposed brick walls. Brick sheets can be made from:

• Plastic composite
• Adhered veneer over cement board
• Acrylic sheets
• Peel-and-stick paper sheets

Pros:

• Quick and easy installation
• Visual impact at lower cost than real brickwork
• Include brick detailing like mortar lines
• Durable and moisture resistant

Cons:

• Brick relief lacks authenticity of real brick
• Limited color and size options
• Acrylic scratches easily without sealant

For most faux brick types, a thin brick sheet attaches directly to the wall with adhesive. Cut outs allow for outlets and fixtures. Use dark grout colors between brick for dramatic shadow lines. Pair with factory-style pendants and stainless steel for an urban loft look.

Fabric

For a soft, textured look, fabric can provide a backsplash alternative. Water-resistant, stain-repellent types like outdoor canvas work best.

Pros:

• Infinite pattern and color options
• Provides cushioned texture
• Quick and easy to install
• Customizable to any size space

Cons:

• Less durable than tile or stone
• Prone to staining and moisture damage
• Wrinkles need ironing or steaming
• Needs frequent cleaning to keep fresh

Outdoor canvas is blended with acrylic for weather-resistance. Use thumbtacks or adhesive sheets to install fabric panels. For easy maintenance, remove panels periodically to launder and re-adhere. Pair with cozy cottage cabinets and tie in fabric window treatments.

Grasscloth

Woven natural fibers applied to paper backing create the striated texture of grasscloth. Modern acrylic versions mimic the look while adding durability.

Pros:

• Provides textural depth and dimension
• Natural look suits earthy, boho aesthetics
• Acrylic versions durable and stain-resistant
• Can be painted over for custom colors

Cons:

• Vulnerable to moisture damage
• Natural materials prone to fading
• Visible seams between panels
• Acrylic lacks natural fiber texture

Install grasscloth backsplash panels horizontally using wallpaper adhesive. For a coordinating look, use matching grasscloth wallpaper on nearby walls. Contrasting white grout between panels adds decorative detail. Grasscloth backsplashes work well in casual, eclectic spaces.

Pegboard

Perf-board pegboard offers an open display and storage option for backsplashes. The perforated hardboard accepts hooks, baskets and ledges.

Pros:

• Provides handy open storage
• Customizable arrangements and styles
• Available as full sheets or tile panels
• Affordable and easy to install

Cons:

• More utilitarian than decorative
• Shows every hole, mark and smudge
• Provides less surface protection
• Hooks and storage must be replaced

Use pegboard backsplashes in conjunction with other materials like subway tile or stainless steel. Arrange hooks, baskets and racks to conveniently hold cooking utensils within reach. Swap out pegboard attachments for quick style changes. Keep surfaces oil-free and clean.

Chalkboard

Transform your backsplash into a usable chalkboard surface for notes, menus, and doodling. Install chalkboard sheets or paint a wall with chalkboard paint.

Pros:

• Adds an interactive, creative element
• Allows for changing displays
• Lends a casual, cottage feel
• Chalk can erase easily

Cons:

• Requires sealing for stain resistance
• Show smudges or ghosting chalk lines
• Provides less protection than tile
• Limit to areas away from heat and steam

Use chalk pens to create semipermanent designs, grocery lists, or art. Convert an entire wall into a chalkboard or use a framed chalkboard sheet behind the stove. Remember to seal the surface first to allow chalk to erase fully. Change up your chalk art whenever inspiration strikes!

Corrugated Metal

For an edgy, rustic urban look, corrugated metal backsplashes make a bold statement. Often made from tin, aluminum or galvanized steel, the ridged sheets diffuse light beautifully.

Pros:

• Industral modern, raw look
• Inexpensive and easy to install
• Shape can amplify acoustics
• Durable and dent-resistant

Cons:

• Does not provide smooth or cleanable surface
• Can show dents and scratches
• Lacks decorative colors and textures
• Can corrode if exposed to moisture

Cut sheets to fit your backsplash area using tin snips. Use adhesive or screws to attach metal to wall studs. Overlap corrugated sheets vertically or horizontally for visual interest. Combine with unfinished wood open shelves and industrial pendants for on-trend style.

FAQ

What materials can be used for kitchen backsplashes?

Some of the most popular backsplash materials include ceramic and stone tile, glass tile or sheets, stainless steel, engineered quartz, natural stone slabs, metal tile, wood planks, faux brick, crushed glass, penny tile, and beaded board panels. Paint, wallpaper, chalkboard, pegboard, and corrugated metal offer additional creative options.

What is the most durable material for a backsplash?

For durability, materials like stone (granite, marble, etc.), ceramic or porcelain tile, stainless steel, and engineered quartz are excellent choices. Their hard, non-porous composition allow them to resist scratches, stains, and moisture damage exceptionally well.

Which backsplash material is the easiest to clean?

Glass, metal, and engineered quartz backsplashes are some of the easiest to keep clean. Their ultra-smooth surfaces allow backsplashes to be easily wiped down. Tiny glass mosaic tiles may involve a bit more effort to clean fully between the grout lines.

What is the most cost effective backsplash material?

Ceramic tile, beaded board, faux brick panels, and paint offer affordable backsplash options for many budgets. Standard white 3×6 subway tile starts at around $5 per square foot. Purchasing tile and panels from big box stores keeps costs lower than specialty tile shops.

What’s the best backsplash for a farmhouse style kitchen?

Classic white subway tile paired with beadboard backsplash panels captures traditional farmhouse style beautifully. For a more rustic interpretation, try wood planks in whitewashed oak or a reclaimed barnwood finish.

Which material works best for a white kitchen backsplash?

White marble, white ceramic subway tile, and white granite are perfect choices for a clean, crisp white kitchen backsplash. Glass mosaic tiles in white or pale mixed colors can also enhance an all-white aesthetic nicely.

What backsplash goes with oak cabinets?

For oak cabinets, consider a backsplash in natural stone like tra