Backsplashes are a popular decorative touch in kitchens, serving both aesthetic and practical purposes. However, they aren’t always necessary or desired. Here are some ideas for what to do instead of backsplash in your kitchen.

Skip the Backsplash Entirely

One option is to forego a backsplash altogether. This clean, minimalist look works well in contemporary kitchens. Be sure the wall paint is washable and scrubbable to stand up to cooking splatters. A soft neutral color painted on the wall can act as a subtle backdrop without being as busy as tile.

Use an Alternative Material

Rather than tile, consider other materials for the backsplash area:

Paint

Paint is affordable and easy to apply. Use high-gloss enamel paint for a sleek, modern look. It’s impervious to moisture and cleans up nicely.

Wallpaper

Today’s wallpapers are quite durable and water-resistant. Choose a prepasted tile pattern or dynamic graphic print. Install a textured vinyl wallpaper for an intriguing dimensional effect.

Metal

Opt for sheets of tin, stainless steel, copper, or galvanized metal. This gives an edgy, industrial vibe. Use metal “tiles” or bold corrugated panels.

Glass

Glass tile provides brilliance and depth. Subway tiles, large sheets, or mosaics can be installed. Opt for frosted, pebbled, or translucent glass for a softer aesthetic.

Wood

Wood brings warmth. Use untreated planks, weathered barn wood, bamboo, or wood-look porcelain tiles. Get creative with mixed sizes, patterns, and textures.

Install a Decorative Panel

Rather than tile, set a prefabricated panel within the backsplash space. Choices include:

Plywood – Use sheets or shiplap for visual interest
Wallcovering – Grasscloth, flocked, or embossed vinyl
Pegboard – Make it functional for hanging kitchenware
Chalkboard – For scribbling notes and recipes
Metal – Choose tin, copper, stainless steel, or rusted panels
Wood – Try beadboard, barn wood, or textured boards

The paneling can cover the entire wall or be framed within the backsplash zone. This simplifies installation and allows changing it out down the road.

Add Open Shelving

One way to skip the backsplash is to install floating shelves in front of the wall instead. Display attractive dishes, cookbooks, or plants. The shelves can be wood, glass, metal, or bracket systems. Leave breathing room between shelves for easy cleaning. Consider lighting to illuminate items.

Hang a Splash Guard

Rather than tile spanning the whole wall, use a short decorative splash guard. Position it just behind the cooktop or sink to catch spills and splatters. Opt for materials like beadboard, tin, stainless steel, marble, travertine, or tempered glass. Add useful railings for hanging utensils.

Put Up Removable Wallpaper

For temporary decoration, use a removable wallpaper or contact paper to dress up the backsplash zone. Peel-and-stick papers come in all sorts of designs, like faux marble, painted medallions, or graphic prints. Swap it out seasonally or when you redecorate.

Add Architectural Interest

Skip the tiled backsplash and instead create visual intrigue using architectural elements like:

Floating shelves
Exposed brick wall
Textured concrete blocks
Weathered wood mantel
Metal beams or pipes
Antique windmill fans
Salvaged signage
Dramatic hood vent

Install a Backsplash Border

Rather than tiling the entire backsplash space, add a border using tile. This saves on time, cost, and materials. Common approaches include:

A row of decorative tile behind the faucet and range
A thin strip of mosaic tile either at countertop level or near the ceiling
Mini tiles in a contrasting hue along the lower portion of the wall
Bold liner tile along the cooking zone to protect the wall

Skip the Backsplash with Other Finishes

Some non-tile finishes can work well without a backsplash, for example:

Stainless steel – A pro look, easily wiped clean
Concrete – Has an organic, mottled texture
Brick or stacked stone – Rustic and charming
Beadboard – Classic wooden panelling
Glass – Glossy and seamless
Laminate – Affordable, seamless, and durable

Be strategic with paint colors and finishes in this case to prevent a flat or lifeless look. Consider a contrasting wall color or varied textures and sheens.

Style It Without a Backsplash

A chic kitchen is still possible without any backsplash at all. Here are some tips:

Use top-quality countertops and cabinetry as the stars
Select countertops with an interesting edge profile
Paint or finish the walls in an eye-catching hue
Add architectural interest with shelving, hood vents, or exposed materials
Make the sink and range focal points with great vent hoods or aprons
Use sleek pendant lights, chandeliers, or sconces to draw the eye up
Finish it off with stylish hardware, fixtures, planters, or artwork

Considerations When Skipping the Backsplash

Will forgoing a backsplash work for your kitchen? Consider the following:

Cooking habits – Do you splatter frequently when cooking? A backsplash can protect susceptible surfaces.
Moisture issues – Backsplashes prevent drips, condensation, and steam from damaging the walls around sinks and ranges.
Maintenance – Without a backsplash, walls require frequent touch-ups to keep them looking clean.
Resale value – Most home buyers expect backsplashes. Leaving it off may affect a future sale.
Cost – Paint or panels may seem like a bargain compared to tile, but may not boost value as much.
Decor – A backsplash provides decorative flair. Without it, take care to add visual interest and personality.

FAQs

What are the best paint colors if you don’t do a backsplash?

Darker hues like deep greens, navy, charcoal, or black hide cooking splatters well. High-gloss enamel paint also resists staining. Light colors make a statement but require frequent touch-ups.

What about just doing a small backsplash area?

Installing a backsplash border along the stove and sink areas helps protect the walls while still opening up visual space. Mini-tiles or liner strips work well.

Is it cheaper to skip the backsplash?

Possibly, but wall repair and frequent repainting can add up. Durable wallcoverings or panels offer texture and style at a lower cost than tile.

Should I still seal the walls if I don’t do a backsplash?

Yes, use a clear sealant made for kitchens and baths. This creates a barrier against grease, water, and stains on paint or porous surfaces. Reapply as needed.

What’s an easy temporary backsplash?

Peel-and-stick wallpaper or contact paper rolls easily adhere to the wall behind a countertop. Choose water-resistant vinyl versions. Change it out whenever you like.

Can I just use caulk instead of a backsplash?

You can try filling the gap between the counter and wall with caulk. However, it won’t fully prevent moisture damage or stains like a proper backsplash.

Conclusion

While backsplashes are common in today’s kitchens, they aren’t required. Depending on your style and needs, going without a backsplash may work beautifully. From a minimalist single-color wall to a decorative focal point, a range of options exist. Just take care to keep the space clean and embellish with paint, lighting, hardware, or shelving to give it personality. Evaluate the pros and cons and aim to create a kitchen you’ll love using without a traditional backsplash.

what to do instead of backsplash

What to Do Instead of Backsplash

Backsplashes are popular in kitchens for aesthetics and function. However, there are alternatives to consider if you wish to skip the backsplash. Here are ideas for what to do instead.

Paint the Wall

Use washable paint in a glossy finish to resist splatters
Dark colors hide grease; white seems clean and bright
Add interest with sheens, textures, or a focal wall

Try a Decorative Wall Covering

Tile-patterned wallpaper or contact paper
Pressed tin or faux metal panels
Weathered boards or textural 3D wallpaper
Chalkboard for scribbling grocery lists

Open Shelving

Floating wood, metal, or glass shelves
Display dishes, cookbooks, or plants
Leave breathing room between for cleaning

Add Architectural Interest

Exposed brick or concrete block
Salvaged wood mantel or beams
Galvanized metal covering a focal area
Dramatic range hood as a centerpiece

Limit Tile to a Small Border

A strip along the counter or by cooking zones
A row of mosaics or mini tiles
Contrasting hues or textures to draw the eye

Style Without a Backsplash

Draw attention up with statement lights or hood
Make counters and sinks focal points
Add hardware, sconces, or artwork for flair
Use high-end materials to compensate for plain walls

Consider Moisture Protection

Seal walls with water-resistant clear coat
Add caulk along countertops
Limit risk with backsplash by sink and range only

what to do instead of backsplash