Bathtub Tile Ideas for a Stunning Bathroom Design

Looking to transform your bathroom into a place of tranquility and style? When it comes to bathtub tile ideas, the options are endless! Apollo Tile offers a diverse selection of ceramic, marble, glass, and porcelain tiles, allowing you to surround your tub with statement-making flair. Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite ideas that will leave you inspired!

While bathroom tile on a bathtub front or backdrop is a practical remedy for moisture and everyday wear and tear, it also scores major points on the attractiveness scale. Be it a modern look with large format natural stone, a classic feel with subway ceramic tiles, or something bold and fun with geometric mosaics, a tiled bathtub can be an exciting feature that elevates your space from ordinary to memorable.

1. Make it artisanal with Moroccan Zellige tiles

If you appreciate centuries-old Moroccan artisanal craftsmanship but want a little more uniformity, you’ll love our range of Zellige handmade tile! Typically shaped as squares or rectangles, the stunning combination of rich glaze, unique texture, and color variation will add depth and charm to your bathroom. Our Purple 5.2 in. x 5.2 in. Polished Ceramic Subway Tile around the bathtub provides a delicate and lustrous finish that makes any space come alive. If you’re drawn to darker decor, the Black Polished & Honed Ceramic Subway Mosaic Tile – 2.5 x 8 in. is the way to go!

2. Color block for an eye-catching statement

Why settle for a single color when you can have a combination of two (or three or four)? Bathtub tile ideas using more than one hue adds an undeniably stylish punch and helps define the area, no matter the size and shape of the room. The best part is you can keep to a neutral composition of tonal and earthy shades to maintain a calming and sophisticated atmosphere.

3. Switch up tile grout for interesting contrast

Naturally, we think grout has to complement tile color. That is true if you want to attain that seamless and uniform look. But if drama is your love language, switching up grout lines is the way to do it. Here, you can contrast tile and grout color for a high-impact visual statement. It’s a great way to outline the contours of each piece and highlight the pattern even more. Your bathtub tile surround is guaranteed to instantly catch the eye!

4. Fit large tiles for a seamless, modern finish

If “sleek, clean, and modern” is the vibe you’re going for, large format bathtub tile ideas should be on your moodboard. Using large porcelain or ceramic tiles, like our Splendor 24 in. x 48 in. Lappato White Porcelain Rectangular Wall and Floor Tile, will make your overall bathroom scheme feel non-fussy, spacious, and airy in the best way. Extending the same tile in the same color onto the floor creates a sense of continuity and a more streamlined finish. Granted, your tile bathtub design will never go out of style!

5. Keep it contemporary with pastel tile beauty

If you enjoy feeling pampered without being showy, then you’ll love pastel bathtub tile ideas! In modern design, these soft, pale shades work wonderfully to bring out the unique character of your space. There are tons of options to choose from, including mint green, powdery pink, and soft lavender. Consider our Piquet 2 in. x 10 in. Matte Green Ceramic Picket Wall and Floor Tile for an on-trend and low-maintenance surround.

6. Stun with elegant natural stone marble tiles

The veining pattern and natural coloring in the surface of each marble tile will make your bathtub stand out. Keep things flowing all the way to your flooring with our White and Gray 12 in. x 24 in. Polished Marble Subway Wall and Floor Tile for an opulent look. And since porcelain can emulate the more expensive material, you can opt for Splendor 23.62 in. x 47.25 in. Polished Black Porcelain Rectangular Wall and Floor Tile, which requires no sealing to maintain its graceful beauty.

7. Opt for trendy, luminous glass mosaic tiles

When you want your bathroom to sparkle, glass tile around bathtub brings that luminous magic. The glossy glaze catches, reflects, and bounces light across the room, making it feel radiant and spacious. Lean to the shimmering splendor and deep coloring of our Cerulean Blue 3 in. x 6 in. Polished Glass Mosaic Tile to create a show-stopping moment!

8. Freshen up with classic white subway tiles

All you need to turn a bathtub with tile walls into a focal point is to opt for quality and timeless material. Enter subway tile! Classic and well-suited for interiors of all types, white subway ceramics remain a go-to for an airy, bright, and spacious bathroom. Change the orientation from the traditional running bond to an interesting herringbone pattern. Or simply add a modern twist with a vertical or horizontal straight stack that gives depth, width, and height to the tub area.

9. Have fun with geometric bathtub tile surround

The latest interior design styles and trends are all about bold patterns and layouts. If you’re looking to add a sense of intrigue, consider an eye-catching geometric tile bathtub surround. Whether it’s an intricate Moroccan star and cross shape or an encaustic surround and panel, the design is sure to take centerstage when done well.

10. Experiment with nature-inspired green tiles

For a fresh and natural take, explore green bathtub tile ideas! It’s a versatile and easy-to-use color that’s reminiscent of lush outdoor landscaping. Plus, green tile never goes out of style. In its softer incarnations, like the Glossy Green Ceramic Subway Wall Tile – 2.58 x 7.9 in, it evokes a soothing ambiance perfect for when you want to unwind at the end of a long day.

Choosing the Right Tile Material for Your Bathtub Area

First and foremost, you want to pick tile that will shield walls from splashes of water as well as the presence of humidity. Ceramic, glass, metal, porcelain, and hardwood tile are all durable and long-lasting options. Marble makes for an elegant backdrop, but it does require periodic sealing so it remains watertight and resilient for years.

Beyond that, though, tile around bathtub provides an opportunity to be creative and impart your personality. And since wall tiles don’t have to meet the same safety criteria as flooring tiles, it gives way to go as wild as you desire with your design. Choose visually impactful shapes such as chevron, penny round, honeycomb, or basketweave in a glossy finish that exudes a luxurious glow. You can even go for relief patterns like ribbon tile to create an interior rich in tactility.

Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Bathtub Tiles

Consistent upkeep is essential to ensure a tiled bathtub looks its best for years. Here are tips to follow:

• Regular cleaning: For an immaculate appearance, proper cleaning goes a long way to prevent buildup of grime and mold. After each bath, wipe down the tile around bathtub with a sponge or a microfiber cloth to remove water spots. Once or twice a week, use a soft cloth dampened in a solution of warm water and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive tools that could scratch the surface of the tile and damage the grout.
• Gentle scrubbing: For tough-to-remove stains, gently scrub the affected area using a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive cleaner.
• Sealing tile joints: While tile is water-resistant, grout isn’t and requires regular sealing to prevent water absorption. If you’re set on natural stone (which isn’t 100% non-porous) such as marble, slate, or travertine tile, then you’ll need to seal that, too.
• Regular inspection: Make sure to inspect your bathtub tile surround periodically for any cracks or chips and remedy the situation immediately to prevent further deterioration.

Conclusion

When it comes to transforming your bathroom, a bathtub with tile surround is a real game changer. From setting the mood and bringing the room alive to adding function, the right tiles can increase the design credentials of your home in more ways than one. And, as these bathtub tile ideas show, it’s easy to add lasting style that’s unique and meaningful to you. Check out our blog on Bathroom Flooring Ideas: Trends & Styles for 2025 for more inspiration!

FQA

1. Which bathtub tile ideas won't go out of style?

Subway tiles in interesting layouts, Zellige walls that inject an authentic allure, and catchy geometric patterns in bright colors are expected to stay relevant throughout the year and beyond.

2. What’s better: glossy or matte tile bathtub design?

The choice between glossy and matte tile is a matter of personal preference and what you envision for your space. A matte finish delivers a natural and refined look. A glossy finish has a luminous sheen that brightens and adds an exquisite touch in contemporary bathrooms.

3. What color tile should I use for the bathtub surround?

Go for bright and vibrant bathtub tile ideas to add a pop of color in an all-white bathroom. When in doubt, a neutral palette is always a fantastic choice that’s timeless and enduring.

4. Should you tile the bathtub surround to the ceiling?

Most modern bathrooms feature a bathtub with tile surround that goes all the way to the ceiling. This design approach adds greater visual impact to the scheme of things.

5. Can I add a trim to the bathtub tile surround?

Definitely! Trims add a finishing touch to the tile edges. This works well if you have a half-tiled tub surround that requires a closing detail to protect against chipping and moisture infiltration. Explore Apollo Tile’s trims to find your perfect match, including pencil, chair rail, baseboard, and bullnose tile trim.