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There is something refreshingly simple and understated about white decor. Light, bright and effortlessly timeless, white brings a pure, fresh feel to living spaces. Far from plain, white can be used to liven up tired, light-lacking spaces, giving a transformative glow-up that will always look good. White tiles are one of the most popular options for kitchen backsplashes. Blending with all cabinet colours, they’re discreet yet elegant and perfect for all styles of space.
Keep reading to discover 10 different ways to style white backsplash tiles.

Image credit: @originalstyleuk

White kitchen backsplash tile ideas

From subtle squares to lavish marble, we’ve selected a varied range of white tiles for the perfect sophisticated splashback.

​​Classic white square tiles

The most classic of classic tiles, simple squares are understated and quietly elegant. One of the cheapest tile types, square tiles are perfect if you want to revamp a backsplash on a budget. Try teaming square tiles with black grout for a striking contrast or dare to be different and try diamond laying the tiles for a subtle twist on the traditional look.

Image credit: @carole.poirot

Recommended Tile: Damask Blanco

Traditional-style metro tiles

Metro tiles are one of the most versatile tile types. From traditional farmhouse style to modern, minimalist backsplashes, these simple tiles will cover it all. If you’re styling a classic kitchen, try laying the metro tiles in a brick bond or herringbone layout, finished with elegant moulded border tiles.

Image credit: @harnhamhouse

Recommended Tile: Dorset Blanco

Modern metro tiles

Metro tiles are popular for their great looks and myriad layout options. They’re also incredibly versatile and can be used in a range of interior styles. If you love the look of these simple rectangular tiles and want to use them in a more modern setting, try stacking the tiles vertically or horizontally for an unfussy, contemporary look.

Image credit: @farmhouseatredfoxrun

Recommended Tile: Emilia Blanco

White tiles, black grout

One of the most iconic colour combinations, black and white is always in style. Black grout has been used with white tiles for decades and the popular pairing is showing no signs of going out of style. Black or dark grey grout works particularly well with white subway tiles, accentuating the tile layout patterns and helping the tiles to stand out.

Image credit: @beautifulhomes

Recommended Tile: Asha White

Hexagonal tiles

Liven up a white splashback by choosing unusually shaped tiles. Hexagonal tiles are a
brilliant choice for awkward spaces
and they’ll add welcome interest to your kitchen area.
Add contrast with different coloured grouts and, for extra interest, pop a couple of different
coloured or textured hexagonal tiles into the mix.

Image credit: @kadilakhomes

Recommended Tile: Ava Blanco Plain

Subtly patterned white tiles

We thought we’d slot a cheeky patterned tile into our roundup of the best white kitchen backsplash ideas. Subtle patterns can work wonders in a neutrally coloured kitchen, adding a little character without detracting from the freshness of a white colour scheme.

Image credit: @originalstyleuk

Recommended Tile: Canyon Mosaic

Zellige style tiles

With their uneven texture and rustic feel, zellige style tiles are perfect for adding depth and interest to kitchen splashbacks. Zellige tiles need to be laid as close together as possible to maximise the effect of their distinctive undulating surface.

Image credit: @dalishaffner

Decorative tile layout

Add a luxurious look to a wall of white glossy tiles by incorporating different tile layouts. Include a panel of tiles in a different design or install a decorative border to add interest and create a subtle focal point. You can use tiles of the same shape and size or include small mosaic tiles for an effective contrast.

Image credit: @decorformycalamity

Recommended Tile: Habana White

Matchstick tiles

Add a modern twist to a backsplash with simple and elegant matchstick mosaic tiles. Inspired by Japanese design, these longline porcelain tiles can be laid horizontally or vertically for maximum chic impact.

Image credit: @providence26_luxe_boutique

Marble tiles

Cool, sophisticated and timeless, marble tiles are an excellent option for a splashback. As marble and marble effect porcelain tiles can be expensive, using them over a small area like a backsplash can be a savvy move. Choose from large format marble slabs, stylish marble metro tiles or a range of exquisite marble mosaic tiles to elevate your kitchen backsplash.

Image credit: @ourhamptonstyleforeverhome

Recommended Tile: Elgin Gloss White Marble

Is a white backsplash a good idea?

With hot oil, bolognese sauce and all matter of splashes and spills to contend with, a white backsplash may not seem like the most practical idea for a kitchen, however, white tiles are easy to clean, resistant to stains and hard to beat for their good looks. Here are a few handy tips to help keep your white backsplash tiles shining bright:

  • Consider using a dark-coloured grout if you’ve opted for small white tiles. Whilst tiles are easy to keep clean, grout can discolour over time. If you love the look of whit tiles and white grout, use a grout sealant to help prevent stains.
  • Choose bigger tiles, larger tiles mean fewer grout lines, and they are easier to keep clean and sparkling too.
  • To remove any stubborn splashback stains, try a mixture of white vinegar and water or make a paste using baking soda and water which can be wiped over the tiles and left for up to 20 minutes before gently scrubbing off.

And if you are worried that white tiles might be a little stark, set them against a backdrop of warm wood or colourful kitchen cabinets, sprinkle a few coloured tiles into the mix or add a row of border tiles in a contrasting colour.

Should a backsplash be lighter or darker than cabinets?

Kitchen backsplashes are designed to prevent the walls from splashes and spills but they can be decorative as well as practical and the right tiles can dramatically enhance your kitchen space. Light tiles often accompany light cabinets and, if you’ve opted for darker kitchen cabinets, you can effectively accentuate them with light or dark tiles, depending on the look you prefer.

What type of tiles are best for splashback?


Sealed stone or porcelain tiles are best for splashbacks, Tough, durable and able to withstand everything life can throw at them, these tiles will last for many years.

Atlas Ceramics stocks a wide range of white tiles for kitchen backsplashes. Browse our
selection yourself or call one of our helpful experts for advice.