
Which Bathroom Tiles Are Right for You? A Complete Guide
Designing a bathroom should be exciting, but navigating the world of tiles can quickly become overwhelming. With countless options for materials, sizes, colours, and patterns, how do you know which choices will work best for your space?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about bathroom tiles to help you make informed decisions.
Understanding Tile Materials
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Ceramic Tiles – These are affordable and versatile, but they’re not as water-resistant as porcelain.
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Porcelain Tiles – A bit denser and more durable than ceramic, perfect for areas with high moisture.
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Natural Stone Tiles – Think slate or travertine for unique charm. Just keep in mind, they need regular sealing.
Choosing the Right Tile Dimensions
Large tiles create a clean, open feel, with less grout lines, while smaller ones bring more detail and character. The way they are arranged makes a big difference. Classic brickwork, herringbone, or a simple stacked design can change the entire look of a space.
Lighter shades help smaller bathrooms feel more spacious, while darker tones bring a sense of warmth and luxury. For a more personal touch, introduce accent colours like deep blues or soft greens. The right combination will help set the tone for a relaxing, stylish space.
Practicality matters as much as design. Slip resistant and water resistant tiles are essential, especially in wet areas. Choosing easy to clean surfaces will also save time. Nobody wants to spend their weekends scrubbing grout.
For a well balanced look, consider mixing materials. Ceramic on the walls and porcelain on the floor create contrast without clashing. A feature wall or patterned border can add personality without making the space feel cluttered. Keeping colours and finishes coordinated will help everything feel connected.
As for trends, textured finishes, vintage details, and sustainable materials are becoming more popular. Penny tiles bring a classic touch, while eco-friendly options are ideal for a more mindful approach to design.
Keeping these factors in mind will help your tiles look great and last for years.
Professional Design Support
At 34 St John, we understand that choosing the perfect bathroom tiles involves balancing aesthetics, practicality, and budget. Our design consultants can help you navigate these decisions with expert advice tailored to your specific needs.
Whether you're looking to create a statement bathroom that stands out, need guidance on the best materials for your space, or simply want to explore options with a knowledgeable professional, our design service provides personalised support throughout your project.
Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you create a bathroom that's both beautiful and perfectly suited to your lifestyle.
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When it comes to designing your bathroom, the right finishing touches can truly transform the space. Thoughtful design elements Stylish accessories Attention to detail in every corner Each of these plays a key role in turning your bathroom from simple to truly luxurious. Here’s how you can enhance your bathroom and create a space that’s both beautiful and practical: 1. Elegant lighting fixturesIntroduce sophisticated lighting options such as chandeliers, pendant lights, or sconces. These fixtures not only illuminate but also add a touch of elegance, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. 2. Quality fabricsSelect high-quality towels, bath mats, and window coverings that complement your bathroom’s overall aesthetic. Adding textures or bold patterns can bring a sense of warmth and visual interest to the space. 3. Artistic elementsIncorporating artwork, framed photos, or metallic wall accents can transform your bathroom into a gallery of personal style. These thoughtful touches infuse character and charm, elevating the space. 4. Smart storage solutionsConsider built-in shower niches for your toiletries. These modern features are practical but also improve the design of your bathroom, offering both storage and style. 5. Thoughtful accessoriesAccessories such as elegant soap dispensers, stylish storage bins, or quality shower curtains pull the entire look together. These small details are essential in creating a cohesive and polished finish. By integrating these carefully selected finishing touches, you can craft a bathroom that’s not only highly functional but also visually stunning. If you're looking to create a space that truly reflects your personal style while offering practicality, these simple upgrades can make all the difference. A bathroom should be a space of relaxation and beauty and with the right finishing touches, it can become exactly that.
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Essential Bathroom Maintenance Guide
When you invest in a brand-new bathroom, you want it to remain in top condition for as long as possible. Fortunately, maintaining its pristine look doesn’t have to be difficult, it's all about consistent care. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve just that: 1. Establish a daily cleaning routine → After every use, wipe down the sink, countertop, and mirrors to keep water spots, soap scum, and grime at bay. It only takes a minute, but it prevents bigger cleaning jobs later. → After you shower, use a squeegee or a microfiber cloth to wipe down the walls and doors. This simple step helps minimise water stains and prevents the build-up of mildew, and reduces limescale in hard water areas. → Mould loves moisture. Make sure your extractor fan is on during and after your shower, or open a window to reduce humidity and keep mould at bay. 2. Conduct weekly deep cleaning → Once a week, give your toilet, sink, and bathtub a thorough clean. Use non-abrasive cleaners to ensure your fixtures stay fresh without risking damage. → Tiles can easily accumulate grime, especially in the grout lines. A gentle cleaner will keep your tiles looking clean and fresh, preventing discoloration and mould. → To maintain streak-free mirrors and glass, use a glass cleaner or a homemade vinegar solution. This keeps your bathroom gleaming without the hassle. 3. Perform monthly maintenance tasks → Clogs can sneak up on you, so take some time each month to clean out your drains. Lift out your shower waste to remove hair and debris. A natural solution, baking soda followed by hot water can do wonders. → Limescale can block water flow and affect your showerhead’s performance. Soak it in a vinegar solution once a month to keep water flowing smoothly. → Check areas prone to moisture, such as around the shower or windowsills. If you spot any signs of mould, address it immediately to avoid bigger problems. 4. Preserve fixtures according to manufacturer guidelines → To protect your investment, always follow the manufacturer's care instructions for fixtures like taps and showerheads. This will ensure their longevity and keep any warranties intact. → Opt for mild, non-abrasive cleaning solutions. Harsh chemicals can strip away finishes and damage your fixtures, leaving them vulnerable to wear and tear. 5. Maintain organised and dry spaces → A clean and tidy space is easier to maintain. Store toiletries and other items in cabinets or organisers to keep your countertops clear and your bathroom looking spacious. → Dampness is the enemy of any bathroom. Hang towels to dry properly, and promptly address any leaks or damp spots to prevent moisture-related issues like mould or rot. 6. Implement preventive measures Place washable mats outside the shower or sink area to absorb excess water and reduce the risk of slipping. → Open a window after your bath or shower. Make sure your extractor fan is working, speak to an electrician if it’s not. → To keep your grout from absorbing moisture and stains, apply a grout sealer annually. This will help protect against both water damage and discolouration. By making these maintenance habits part of your routine, you can ensure that your new bathroom will stay in excellent condition for years to come. If you’ve got any questions or need more tips on bathroom care, feel free to contact us. -
New Bathroom Care & Maintenance Tips
First of all, congratulations on your beautiful new bathroom! It's an exciting and rewarding this to do and can add both value and enjoyment to your home. Now that the installation is complete, you'll want to keep that fresh, sparkling look for years to come. In this guide, we'll share some simple yet effective tips to maintain your bathroom's pristine condition with minimal effort. 1. Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine The secret to a perpetually clean bathroom is consistency. A little maintenance goes a long way! Daily Habits Quickly wipe down countertops and basins after use Use a shower squeegee to remove water stains from glass doors and walls Hang towels properly to dry (avoid piling wet towels) Weekly Tasks Clean toilets, basins, and taps thoroughly Scrub shower and bath surfaces Wipe mirrors and glass fixtures Clean grout lines with a gentle cleaner to prevent build up 2. Master Proper Ventilation Moisture is your bathroom's biggest enemy, potentially causing mould, mildew, and even structural damage if left unchecked. Smart Ventilation Strategies Maximise fan usage: Run your extractor fan during showers and for at least 20 minutes afterwards Open windows when possible to increase airflow Wipe down wet surfaces after showers to remove excess moisture Leave shower doors open slightly to allow air circulation 3. Care for Your Fixtures Your beautiful fixtures deserve special attention to maintain their finish and functionality. Fixture Maintenance Tips Use a 50/50 vinegar and water solution to remove mineral deposits from taps and showerheads Even small drips can cause water damage and waste water so make sure to address leaks immediately Avoid harsh cleaners and choose products specifically formulated for your fixture materials Use appropriate metal polish to restore shine to fixtures 4. Protect Your Investment A few preventative measures can significantly extend the life of your bathroom surfaces. Protection Strategies Place washable mats outside the shower and near basins Apply grout sealer annually. This creates a protective barrier against moisture and stains. Choose gentle cleaners. Harsh chemicals can damage surfaces over time Consider water softeners - if you have hard water, this can prevent mineral build-up With these simple tips, your new bathroom will maintain its beauty for years to come. Remember that consistent care is much easier than addressing problems after they develop! Feel free to share these tips with friends or family who might benefit. And as always, if you have any questions or need additional advice, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. -
Bathroom Cleaning Tips the Pros Don't Want You to Know
We all want a sparkling bathroom but don’t want to spend hours scrubbing. And the good news is: with a few smart, time-saving strategies, you can keep it clean without the hassle. Here are 5 simple ways to simplify your bathroom cleaning: 1. Pre-treat surfaces Before you start scrubbing away, you can make cleaning more efficient by working systematically. Start with gentle cleaning methods on sinks, taps, tiles and other surfaces. Always test any cleaning solution on a small inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility with your bathroom materials. For stubborn grime, allow appropriate cleaners to work for a few minutes according to the product instructions. This methodical approach saves time while protecting your bathroom surfaces. It’s also worth remembering that our very own Beyonstone has antifungal, antibacterial and self-cleaning properties. Learn more about Beyondstone here. 2. Utilise steam cleaning It sanitises surfaces without harsh chemicals, and the steam can reach into those tricky spots where dirt and bacteria love to hide. For a cleaner bathroom with less effort, a steam cleaner is definitely the way to go. 3. Squeegee after showers One simple yet effective tip we swear by is keeping a squeegee in the shower. After each use, give the walls a quick squeegee. It only takes a few seconds, but it prevents moisture buildup and reduces soap scum. This tiny habit means you won’t have to spend ages scrubbing later. 4. Warm up the bathroom Before you start cleaning, try running a hot shower for a minute or two. This warms up the bathroom, loosening grime and soap scum. When the room is warm, cleaning products work more effectively, meaning less scrubbing for us! 5. Prevent mold with proper ventilation Mold and mildew are common bathroom problems, but they’re easily prevented with good ventilation. You should make sure your bathroom is well-ventilated by using an extractor fan or opening windows during and after showers. This helps reduce moisture in the air and prevents mold growth, keeping our bathroom fresher for longer. By incorporating these insider tips into our cleaning routine, you can maintain a sparkling, spotless bathroom with minimal effort.