Kitchen Backsplashes to Avoid and Why They Don't Work

When remodeling a kitchen, the backsplash is one of the most visible and impactful design elements. While it's tempting to follow the latest trends, some backsplash ideas just don't stand the test of time. Certain materials, patterns, and arrangements that seem stylish now end up looking dated and worn out faster than expected.

Classic backsplash designs never truly go out of style. Timeless choices made from quality materials elevate your kitchen's look while remaining functional and easy to maintain over the years. Read on to learn which backsplash trends to avoid--and better options to consider instead.

Leaving the Backsplash Area Blank

Skipping the backsplash installation altogether may seem like an easy way to save on time and money. But this trend should be avoided for several reasons. Leaving the wall above countertops and appliances empty creates an unfinished look in the kitchen. Without a backsplash, grease splatters, water spots, and food debris end up all over the once-clean walls.

A blank backsplash area also leaves your walls vulnerable to moisture damage. Stovetops release heat, steam, and condensation upward during cooking. Sinks splash water in that direction while doing dishes. Over time, this moisture can soak into drywall and cause stains or mold issues without a protective barrier.

Affordable Alternatives to a Blank Backsplash

You don't need an elaborate or expensive backsplash to avoid leaving the space blank. Here are some budget-friendly options:

• Ceramic or porcelain tile sheets
• Faux tin or stainless steel panels
• Painted glass panels
• Peel-and-stick wallpaper or contact paper
• Painted drywall with a gloss sheen for wipeability

Adding any washable, water-resistant material provides a finished look and crucial protection compared to an empty wall. Consider an accent backsplash just 4-6 inches high behind sinks or stoves if your budget is very limited.

All-White Backsplash

Crisp, clean white tile provides a timeless backsplash choice that suits any style of decor. But choosing only white for the entire backsplash area can end up looking monotonous. An all-white backsplash lacks visual depth and interest.

As trends shift toward warmer design schemes, this once-popular look is starting to feel sterile and outdated. While white remains a versatile backsplash color, it works best when combined with other materials and finishes.

Options Beyond White Tile

Think beyond plain white squares to give your backsplash personality. Try these suggestions:

• Mix white tiles with natural stone, glass mosaics, or metallic accents
• Use shades like bone, ivory, or light gray for softer contrast
• Choose white tiles in multiple sizes or patterns
• Install white tile in a unique layout like herringbone
• Use colored grout to add interest to white tile

Maintaining some white in your backsplash design ensures it remains light and bright. Balancing with other materials adds the depth and dimension an all-white backsplash lacks.

Classic Subway Tiles

The subway tile is a backsplash staple known for its classic, clean look. But the ubiquitous 3 by 6-inch white rectangular tiles have become a bit too commonplace lately.

As this mass-produced tile has grown in popularity for its affordability and simplicity, it's veered into overkill. Homeowners looking for a more custom aesthetic are now shying away from traditional subway tiles.

Unique Alternatives to Subway Tile

Subway-shaped tiles offer timeless appeal, but you can give this look a fresh update. Try these twists on the classic subway:

• Mini or maxi sized rectangles
• Subway sets withdecorative mosaic accents
• Herringbone patterns
• Beveled subway tiles
• Colored, patterned, or textured subway tiles

Subway tiles remain versatile and budget-friendly. With some creativity, they can be transformed into a custom look with plenty of personality.

Pebble Tile Backsplashes

At first glance, pebble tiles make an attractive backsplash choice. Their smooth, rounded shape resembles natural stones tumbled smooth by flowing water. But the tiny pebble style is waning in popularity due to practical downsides.

The main issue is keeping grout between the pebbles clean. Bacteria and grime easily get lodged in the narrow grout lines. Constant maintenance is required to prevent unsightly buildup. The small tiles also crack and deteriorate more rapidly than larger tiles.

Better Options Than Pebble Tiles

For a natural stone look without the hassle of upkeep, consider these alternatives:

• Traditional ceramic or porcelain tiles
• Marble, travertine, or granite slabs
• Stone mosaic sheets
• Agglomerate stone tiles

Larger tile formats, either ceramic or natural stone, offer beauty and convenience. They limit grout lines for easier cleaning while providing character through veining or speckled patterns.

Matching Countertop and Backsplash

Selecting the same material for both the countertop and backsplash creates a streamlined, uniform look. But matching these two surfaces exactly results in a monotonous, uninspired kitchen design.

Without contrast between the countertop and backsplash, the eye focuses on nothing. The space appears flat and one-dimensional. This once-popular trend now feels dull and dated.

Ideas Beyond Matching Materials

Instead of identical countertop and backsplash materials, create visual interest through contrast. Some ideas include:

• Pair cool tones like white marble countertops with warm wood backsplash
• Choose a sleek countertop like quartz with a rustic backsplash like subway tile
• Match the countertop color but use varying textures like concrete with ceramic tile
• Anchor a neutral countertop with an accent backsplash color

The most compelling combinations use complementary colors, patterns, or finishes. Contrast adds much-needed depth and dimension to the kitchen.

Super Dark Backsplashes

Deep, dramatic shades like black, charcoal, or navy blue create an undeniably bold backsplash. But the trend toward ultra-dark backsplashes has downsides beyond just aesthetics.

While sleek in contemporary spaces, these moody dark hues can make traditional or small kitchens feel closed in and cavelike. Dark backsplashes also present functional drawbacks. They readily show fingerprints, grease splatters, soap scum, and water spots.

Alternatives to Dark Tile

There are other ways to achieve sophisticated, modern style without a super dark backsplash. Consider these options instead:

• Neutral tones like warm gray, beige, or soft white
• Metallic finishes like brass, bronze, or copper
• Small-scale patterns or textures
• Dark tile or paint only on one focal wall

With strategic use of color and light, you can attain the moodiness of an ultra-dark backsplash without overwhelming the space.

Distressed Backsplash Tiles

Textured tiles designed to mimic aged, weathered, or worn surfaces became popular for backsplashes aiming for a rustic or industrial vibe. But the look of distressed, cracked, or faded tiles has drawbacks.

First, the artificial aging can look unsightly as the tiles show actual wear over time. Distressed finishes also tend to appear dirty, even right after cleaning. This forces constant scrubbing to avoid seeming unhygienic.

Options Beyond Distressed Tiles

Consider alternatives that add natural yet subtle variation without an artificial aged look:

• Tumbled natural stone like marble or travertine
• Handmade artisan tiles
• Wood-look ceramic planks
• Concrete-effect porcelain
• Terrazzo

Choosing materials with inherent texture avoids the need to artificially distress them. You achieve character and depth without the high-maintenance hassles.

Bold Backsplash Patterns

From floral prints to geometric shapes, bold patterns and graphics give the backsplash a chance to make a statement. But unsuitable designs quickly become a statement you may regret.

In small, modest kitchens, an overwhelming backsplash pattern tends to dominate the whole space. Plus, bold prints that follow fleeting trends rather than classic motifs risk looking outdated faster.

Less Risky Alternatives to Bold Prints

Here are some ways to add personality without going over-the-top on patterns:

• Natural stone with subtle veining
• Mosaics or stacked stone
• Unfussy ceramic tiles like brickwork
• Add patterns through replaceable decor instead

Focus the backsplash design on quality, durable materials for longevity. Patterns and colors can come through countertops, flooring, lighting fixtures, and decor.

Unsealed Natural Stone

Marble, travertine, limestone, and other natural stones make stunning backsplash materials. But their inherent porosity requires proper sealing to avoid issues.

When moisture seeps into the tiny pores, it leads to etching, staining, and discoloring. Bacteria can harbor in unsealed stone's crevices. Constant sealing is essential for both aesthetics and food safety.

Lower Maintenance Stone Options

For worry-free natural stone, opt for these virtually non-porous, low-maintenance varieties:

• Granite
• Quartzite
• Soapstone
• Engineered quartz

When choosing stone, consider both visual appeal and practical factors like durability, water-resistance, and ease of care over time. Select materials that naturally resist issues caused by exposure to moisture, heat, and daily wear and tear.

Oversized Backsplash Tiles

Large-format tiles exceeding four inches square can make a dramatic statement and mimic stone slabs. But the oversized tile trend comes with functional drawbacks in backsplashes.

Extra-large tiles are heavy, difficult to maneuver, and challenging to cut and install yourself. Their significant grout lines trap gunk and stain more noticeably. Replacing damaged tiles down the road involves matching discontinued oversized goods.

Better Tile Sizes for Backsplashes

To avoid oversized tile pitfalls, follow these guidelines for selecting backsplash tile dimensions:

• Standard subway tile 3 x 6 inches
• Mosaic tiles 1 inch or smaller
• Uniform squares 2 to 4 inches
• Moderate rectangles like 4 x 12-inch
• Varying sizes for interest

Thoughtfully combining tile shapes and sizes creates a custom look. Standard sizes make DIY installation and future repairs simple.

Super Reflective Backsplashes

Glass, metallic, or super-polished stone tiles catch the light beautifully. But high-shine, reflective materials cause problematic glare in kitchens. They also exaggerate grime and flaws.

Distracting reflections bounce off appliances and mirrors. Smudges, water spots, and soap scum on glossy backsplashes appear magnified. The slick surface also offers minimal grip for attaching accessories.

Less Reflective Backsplash Ideas

Here are some alternatives to minimize glare and maintenance issues:

• Honed or flamed stone finishes
• Textured ceramic, porcelain, or glass tile
• Matte-finish metal like tin or copper
• Eggshell or satin painted glass

The most practical backsplash materials resist moisture, stains, and burns while minimizing glare from lights or windows. Affected by spills and daily wear and tear, kitchen backsplashes call for durable, unfussy, easy-care finishes.

While backsplash options abound, not all materials, colors, and designs stand the test of time. Avoid fleeting trends and impractical finishes in favor of classic choices that withstand busy kitchens.

Focus on quality, carefree materials in versatile neutrals or simple patterns. Choose porcelain, ceramic tile, stone, or metals that tolerate moisture, heat, grease, and frequent cleaning. With timeless practicality and subtle uniqueness, your backsplash transforms from trendy to timeless.