As tempting as it may be, don’t simply choose your favorite stones or colors to throw onto your backsplash. Instead, consider the style and architecture of your kitchen and choose something cohesive to fit.
A backsplash isn’t the easiest or most affordable thing to change every time the wind blows so be sure to choose something that you can live with for a long time.
Cement tiles are a no-go for the kitchen backsplash (as is limestone, the chief component of cement) because it’s just too porous.
Highly reflective materials may not make the best backsplash, our designers advise. They’re difficult to keep clean because every spot and smudge is clear as day, plus they will unpleasantly reflect every light in the kitchen.
Peel-and-Stick tiles are a hard “no” for all the designers interviewed because they lack longevity.
Avoid white grout. Although it might seem like a clear choice, especially if you’re using white tiles, grout isn’t easy to clean and white grout is especially susceptible to discoloration.
Linear, horizontal subway tiles are a popular choice, especially beloved by Humphreys and Champ, but they’re not the only one out there.