What is The Best Tile for a Shower? Quick & Easy Guide
May 13, 2026 4 minute readDurability, safety, and visual appeal impact the choice of shower tile. Different materials respond differently to wet areas, with some rated only for walls and others for both walls and floors. To answer the question “what is the best tile for a shower,” we’ve put together a quick guide to help you simplify the selection process.
- ✓ The best type of tile for shower walls and floors is stylish, resilient, water-resistant, and easy to maintain.
- ✓ Options for creating a beautiful and functional space include porcelain, ceramic, terrazzo, glass, and marble tile.
Which Tile Materials Perform Best in Wet Areas
The best tile for showers should handle daily splashes of water and regular cleaning. When selecting tiling material, options include ceramic, porcelain, glass, marble, and terrazzo, each offering unique aesthetic and practical benefits.
1. Ceramic Tile:
Affordable, water-resistant, and easy to clean, with some options rated for both shower walls and floors.
2. Porcelain Tile:
Has a low absorption rate, remarkably strong and durable, and is available in an array of styles, including stone, terracotta, and hardwood.
3. Glass Tile:
Exquisite style options in subway and mosaic patterns, water-resistant, and suitable for standout shower walls and floors.
4. Marble Tile:
Options are varied and include Thassos, Carrara, Crema Marfil, Nero Marquina, and Calacatta marble tile. Hardwearing and suitable for both shower walls and floors. Marble should be sealed to maintain its appearance.
5. Terrazzo Tile:
Available in mosaics and large formats, hard-wearing, and rated for floors and walls. Like natural stone, authentic terrazzo tile should be sealed every 6-12 months for longevity.
Which Shower Tile Works Best for Walls vs Floors
Larger shower wall tile in ceramic, marble, porcelain, or terrazzo gives the impression of a single, continuous surface. Walls face no impact from foot traffic, making options like White Gray 16x48 3rd Fired Ceramic Large Format Tile a great fit where focus is more on style, finish, and size. Other decorative wall coverings to consider include subway patterns and glossy mosaics.
When picking shower floor tile, safety and grip are key. Smaller tiles, such as geometric mosaics, are usually better as the increased grout lines provide improved traction. Robust and nearly waterproof, porcelain flooring, such as Beige 12x12 Matte Uniform Square Porcelain Mosaic Tile, can take a beating without deteriorating in quality. Marble mosaics are growing in demand, but require resealing annually and cleaners designed for natural stone.
What Should You Consider Before Choosing Shower Tile
When selecting the best material for shower walls or floors, consider the following:
- 01 Water-resistant and stain-resistant tile to avoid damage
- 02 Easy to clean and maintain tile that's resistant to mold
- 03 Tile style, color, and size to fit your aesthetic goals
- 04 Slip-resistant matte or textured tile to prevent slips and falls
What Tile Finishes are the Safest for Shower Floors
When selecting the best tile for shower floors, it’s important to prioritize safety. Slip-resistant options for wet areas include matte and textured. Be it porcelain or marble, these finishes bring texture, character, and depth while reducing the risk of accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most budget-friendly tile for the shower?
Ceramic subway tiles are among the budget-friendly options for the shower. However, tile costs depend on several factors, such as quality, approved application, and the complexity of the project. Learn more on our blog: Tile Installation Cost: Budgeting Smart for Your Project.
