When remodeling a bathroom, one of the biggest decisions is what is the best tile for shower walls.
Your choice impacts not just the look of your space but also its durability, maintenance, and overall value.
Whether you're planning a quick refresh or a full Sacramento bathroom remodel, selecting the right shower tile is crucial to creating a space that's both beautiful and built to last.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best tile materials for shower walls, compare popular options, and help you choose the best bathroom shower tile for your next renovation.
What Are the Best Tiles for Shower Walls?
When selecting the best tile for a shower, you want something that is:
Water-resistant and durable
Easy to clean and maintain
Stylish and fits your design aesthetic
Cost-effective (and appropriate for your budget)
The best tile material for shower walls typically includes porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone — each offering different advantages depending on your priorities.
1. Porcelain Tile—Top Choice Overall
Porcelain is widely regarded as the best tile for shower walls thanks to its incredible durability and near-zero water absorption.
Best for: High-traffic showers, luxury bathroom remodels, low-maintenance designs
Pros:
✔ Extremely water-resistant (impervious to moisture)
✔ Available in large formats to minimize grout lines
✔ Mimics the look of marble, concrete, or wood beautifully
Cons:
✖ Heavier and harder to install
✖ More expensive than standard ceramic
If you're wondering what is the best tile for shower walls, porcelain is often the top recommendation due to its strength and sleek appearance.
2. Ceramic Tile—Best for Budget-Friendly Remodels
Ceramic tile remains a top recommended tile for shower walls because of its affordability and variety.
Best for: Affordable upgrades, colorful or textured designs
Pros:
✔ Inexpensive compared to porcelain
✔ Easy to cut and install
✔ Wide range of colors, shapes, and textures
Cons:
✖ Slightly more porous than porcelain
✖ Glazed surfaces can chip if mishandled
Ceramic is the best tile for bathroom shower remodels when you want beautiful style without blowing your budget.
3. Natural Stone—Marble, Slate, Travertine
For those seeking high-end luxury, natural stone is a classic best tile type for shower walls — but it demands careful installation and maintenance.
Best for: Spa-like bathrooms, high-end custom homes
Pros:
✔ Luxurious, timeless appearance
✔ Unique veining and natural beauty
✔ Adds significant resale value
Cons:
✖ Needs regular sealing
✖ Prone to staining without proper care
✖ Higher installation costs
While natural stone can be one of the best tiles to use in shower, it requires more maintenance compared to porcelain or ceramic.
4. Glass Tile—Best for Accents
Glass tile is a gorgeous option for shower wall accents, niches, and feature walls.
Best for: Accent walls, modern bathrooms, reflective surfaces
Pros:
✔ Reflects light to brighten small bathrooms
✔ Easy to clean
✔ Adds visual depth and sparkle
Cons:
✖ Expensive
✖ Scratches more easily
✖ Needs expert installation to avoid adhesive show-through
If you're seeking the best tile to use for shower walls to create dramatic focal points, glass tile is a stunning choice.
5. Mosaic Tile—Best for Creative Designs
Mosaic tiles — whether glass, ceramic, or stone — allow you to create intricate patterns on shower walls.
Best for: Custom backsplashes, niches, artistic bathroom designs
Pros:
✔ Highly customizable
✔ Works on curved surfaces
✔ Adds texture and movement
Cons:
✖ More grout maintenance
✖ Time-consuming to install
For designers asking what are the best tiles for shower walls when making a bold statement, mosaics are an unbeatable option.
Quick Comparison: Best Tile Materials for Shower Walls
|
Tile Type |
Water Resistance |
Maintenance |
Cost |
Style Range |
Best Use |
|
Porcelain |
Excellent |
Low |
Medium/High |
High |
Primary shower walls |
|
Ceramic |
Good |
Low/Medium |
Low |
Very High |
Budget remodels |
|
Natural Stone |
Moderate (sealed) |
High |
High |
High |
Luxury homes |
|
Glass |
Good |
Medium |
High |
High |
Accents |
|
Mosaic (varied materials) |
Depends on material |
Medium/High |
Medium |
Very High |
Custom designs |
Best Tile Sizes and Layouts for Shower Walls
Large Format Tiles (24x24", 12x24") — Minimize grout lines for a sleek, modern look
Subway Tiles (3x6") — Timeless and versatile; looks great in both classic and contemporary bathrooms
Mosaics (1x1", 2x2") — Perfect for curved walls, niches, or floors
Pro Tip: When choosing the best tile material for shower walls, also think about grout! Smaller tiles = more grout lines = more cleaning.
Installation Tips for Long-Lasting Shower Walls
- Always install a proper waterproofing membrane behind your tile.
- Use thin-set mortar appropriate for your chosen tile type.
- Apply grout sealer regularly, especially if using natural stone or mosaics.
- Hire experienced installers for large-format porcelain and natural stone tiles.
Final Thoughts: What Is the Best Tile for Shower Walls?
Choosing the best tile for a shower depends on your style, maintenance preferences, and budget:
✅ Best overall: Porcelain tile
✅ Best budget option: Ceramic tile
✅ Best luxury choice: Natural stone
✅ Best for bright, small spaces: Glass tile
✅ Best creative designs: Mosaic tile
Whether you're seeking the best bathroom shower tile for a sleek, modern remodel or a timeless, classic retreat, picking the right best tile type for shower walls will ensure your bathroom remains beautiful and functional for years to come.
FAQs About Shower Wall Tiles
Q: What is the best tile for shower walls?
A: Porcelain tile is considered the best for its low water absorption, durability, and versatility.
Q: What are the best tiles for shower walls if I want low maintenance?
A: Porcelain and ceramic tiles are the easiest to maintain.
Q: What is the best tile material for shower walls in high-end bathrooms?
A: Natural stone like marble or granite, with proper sealing and care.
Q: Can I mix different tile types in the same shower?
A: Absolutely! Mixing porcelain, glass accents, and mosaics can create stunning custom designs.
Q: How big should my shower wall tiles be?
A: Large-format tiles (12"x24" or bigger) reduce grout lines and create a modern, clean look.
Ready to Transform Your Shower?
Choosing the best tile for bathroom shower remodels is easier when you know the options. Whether you're picking materials or looking for expert tile installation Sacramento, we're here to guide you every step of the way.
Need help planning your dream shower? Drop your questions below — we’re ready to help you design a bathroom you'll love for years!
