Choosing the right tiles for your bathroom can feel more complicated than it seems. With so many options available, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to costly fixes or a bathroom that doesn’t meet your needs. Whether picking the wrong material, overlooking water resistance, or getting swept up by trends, these mistakes can cause a lot of stress.

We’ve analysed the potential mistakes people often make and have come up with a clear list of what you should avoid. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make informed decisions and create a bathroom that’s both beautiful and functional.

Common mistakes we will cover today:

• Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Tile for the Bathroom Floor
• Mistake #2: Ignoring Tile Size and Room Proportions
• Mistake #3: Ignoring Water-Resistant and Anti-Slip Properties
• Mistake #4: Overlooking Grout and Sealant Choices
• Mistake #5: Not Considering Lighting and Tile Appearance
• Mistake #6: Choosing Trendy Tiles Over Timeless Styles
• Mistake #7: Skipping Professional Advice
• Mistake #8: Not Ordering Enough Tiles
• Mistake #9: Rushing the Tile Selection Process
• Mistake #10: Focusing Only on Price

Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Tile for the Bathroom Floor

When selecting tiles for your bathroom floor, it’s important to consider safety and durability. One common mistake is selecting tiles with a glossy finish because they look attractive. However, glossy tiles can become extremely slippery when wet, which is unsafe for a bathroom where water regularly gets on the floor. Instead, you should opt for matte or anti-slip tiles, which provide better grip and reduce the risk of slipping. 

Glossy tiles can still be a great choice for bathroom walls where slipping isn’t a concern. But for floors, always prioritise tiles with anti-slip properties to make your bathroom safer and more functional. In short, you should be looking for floor tiles with R11 anti-slip rating, as they were specifically made for bathrooms and wet areas.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Tile Size and Room Proportions

Choosing the wrong tile size for your bathroom can affect how the room looks and feels. In smaller bathrooms, large tiles may seem like a good idea, but they can overwhelm the space, making it look cramped. On the other hand, using tiny tiles in a larger bathroom can create a busy, cluttered appearance. The key is to match your tile size with the proportions of your bathroom.

For smaller bathrooms, medium or large tiles can actually make the space feel bigger by reducing the number of grout lines. For larger bathrooms, using a mix of tile sizes or opting for smaller floor tiles with larger wall tiles can help create balance. It’s all about creating a visual flow that complements your space.

Before making a final decision, it’s a good idea to lay out sample tiles in your bathrooms. In our depots, you can always collect some free samples to be 100% sure of your choice.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Water-Resistant and Anti-Slip Properties

Bathrooms are high-moisture areas, so choosing tiles that aren’t water-resistant or slip-resistant is a mistake that can lead to bigger problems. Tiles that are not designed to handle moisture can lead to issues like mould, mildew, and even structural damage over time. That’s why you should always make sure the tiles you select for your bathroom are designed to withstand water exposure.

For bathroom floors, anti-slip properties are just as important. A tile that looks good but becomes dangerously slippery when wet isn’t safe. Always check the tile’s specifications for slip resistance, especially for wet areas like bathrooms. Look for tiles with an R11 anti-slip rating, as these are made specifically for bathrooms and other wet spaces.

Making sure your tiles are water-resistant and slip-resistant will save you a lot of trouble down the line, keeping your bathroom both safe and durable.

Mistake #4: Overlooking Grout and Sealant Choices

Grout and sealant may seem like minor details, but they play a big role in the overall look and durability of your bathroom. One common mistake is choosing the wrong grout colour or not paying attention to seal tiles properly. Grout that contrasts too much with your tiles can be visually distracting, while grout that’s too close in colour might blend in too much, losing the tile’s definition.

It’s also important to consider grout line size. Large grout lines can make a bathroom look messy, especially in smaller spaces. On the other hand, small grout lines create a cleaner, more modern look but may require more precise installation.

Sealant is also critical, especially if you’re using natural stone tiles. Without sealing, natural stone can absorb water and stains, leading to discolouration and long-term damage. Even after applying grout, a second coat of sealant is often necessary to protect your tiles.

Mistake #5: Not Considering Lighting and Tile Appearance

The way your bathroom tiles look can change dramatically depending on the lighting. One common mistake is choosing tiles without checking how they appear under different lighting conditions. Tiles that look perfect in the showroom or under natural light might not have the same effect in your bathroom under artificial light.

Bathroom lighting can vary, especially between day and night. If your bathroom lacks natural light, some tiles may appear darker or duller than expected. On the other hand, bright lighting might make glossy tiles reflect too much light, causing glare. To avoid this, you should test tile samples in your bathroom under the actual lighting conditions you’ll be using.

Mistake #6: Choosing Trendy Tiles Over Timeless Styles

It’s easy to get caught up in the latest tile trends, but choosing tiles based solely on what’s currently popular can be a mistake. Trends come and go, and what looks stylish today might feel outdated in just a few years. This can lead to unnecessary costs if you feel the need to update your bathroom sooner than expected.

Instead of focusing on the latest trends, consider opting for timeless tile designs. Classic styles, such as neutral colours, subway tiles, or simple patterns, are less likely to go out of style and can work well with various decor updates over the years. 

Mistake #7: Skipping Professional Advice

A common mistake many homeowners make is trying to handle the entire tile selection and installation process without consulting a professional. While it might seem straightforward, choosing and installing bathroom tiles requires careful consideration of various factors, including material suitability, layout, and technical aspects like waterproofing.

Tile specialists or designers can provide valuable insights into the right materials for your specific bathroom conditions, help you avoid costly mistakes, and suggest design options that align with your vision. Even if you plan to install the tiles yourself, seeking professional advice during the planning stage can ensure you make informed decisions that save you time and money in the long run.

Mistake #8: Not Ordering Enough Tiles

One of the most frustrating mistakes you can make is not ordering enough tiles to complete your bathroom project. Many people underestimate the number of tiles they need, forgetting to account for mistakes, cuts, or future repairs. This can cause delays if you need to order more tiles later, especially if the exact tile you chose becomes unavailable or if there are batch colour differences.

To avoid this problem, it’s recommended to order about 10-15% more tiles than your calculated requirement. This extra amount allows for miscalculations, and accidental breakages, and ensures you have matching tiles on hand if you need to replace any in the future.

Mistake #9: Rushing the Tile Selection Process

Selecting bathroom tiles is a decision that shouldn’t be rushed. Many people make the mistake of quickly choosing tiles without taking the time to fully explore their options, compare materials, or consider how the tiles will look and function in their specific bathroom. Rushed decisions often lead to regret when the tiles don’t meet your expectations or when you realise too late that they don’t fit the overall design or practicality of the space.

Mistake #10: Focusing Only on Price

While it’s tempting to choose tiles based solely on price, this approach can lead to problems in the long run. Cheaper tiles might save you money upfront, but they often lack durability and may require more frequent repairs or replacement. This ends up costing you more in the long term. Additionally, lower-priced tiles might not offer important features like water resistance or anti-slip properties, which are crucial for bathroom safety and functionality.

Instead of focusing just on the initial cost, consider the long-term value. High-quality tiles may be more expensive, but they are usually more durable, easier to maintain, and safer for bathroom environments. It’s a better investment to choose tiles that will last and perform well, even if they come with a slightly higher price tag.