Renovating a bathroom in 2025? Choosing the right tiles is crucial for both aesthetics and practicality. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular and cost-effective tiles for Australian bathrooms, highlight tiles to avoid, and provide insights from customer reviews.
Most Popular Bathroom Tiles
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Large Format Tiles ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Advantages: Seamless, modern look with minimal grout lines, making cleaning easier.
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Disadvantages: Can be difficult to install in smaller bathrooms due to cutting requirements.
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Terrazzo Tiles ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Advantages: Highly durable, unique speckled design, and adds character.
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Disadvantages: Requires sealing to prevent stains and can be costly.
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Matte Porcelain Tiles ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Advantages: Non-slip surface, sophisticated finish, highly water-resistant.
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Disadvantages: Can be slightly harder to clean than glossy tiles.
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Textured Natural Stone Tiles ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Advantages: Luxurious, timeless appeal, and unique natural patterns.
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Disadvantages: Requires regular sealing and maintenance, can be expensive.
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Subway Tiles with Unique Layouts ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Advantages: Versatile, trendy, and budget-friendly.
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Disadvantages: Requires more grout cleaning due to small size.
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Best Cost-Effective Tiles
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Ceramic Tiles ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Advantages: Affordable, durable, easy to clean, and widely available.
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Disadvantages: Less water-resistant compared to porcelain.
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Porcelain Tiles ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Advantages: Highly durable, water-resistant, and available in a variety of designs.
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Disadvantages: Slightly more expensive than ceramic tiles.
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Vinyl Tiles ⭐⭐⭐
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Advantages: Budget-friendly, mimics stone or wood textures, soft underfoot.
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Disadvantages: Lower quality versions can peel or wear down quickly.
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White Subway Tiles ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Advantages: Classic, affordable, and provides a timeless look.
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Disadvantages: Requires more grout maintenance.
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Tiles to Avoid
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Glossy Floor Tiles
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Why Avoid? Extremely slippery when wet, posing a safety hazard.
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Cheap Natural Stone Tiles
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Why Avoid? Absorbs water, stains easily, and requires high maintenance.
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Overly Trendy Colours or Patterns
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Why Avoid? May go out of style quickly, reducing resale value.
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Low-Quality Vinyl
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Why Avoid? Can peel, wear down quickly, and lacks durability.
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Customer Reviews & Insights
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“I chose large matte porcelain tiles, and they’ve been fantastic – easy to clean and non-slip.” – Sarah, Melbourne
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“Terrazzo tiles made our bathroom feel luxurious, but they require regular sealing.” – James, Sydney
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“Avoid glossy tiles! We had to redo our bathroom floors due to constant slipping hazards.” – Emma, Brisbane
Case Study: A Costly Tile Mistake and the Right Solution
John and Lisa from Adelaide recently renovated their bathroom and initially opted for glossy white tiles throughout. They loved the sleek, reflective look, but soon after installation, they noticed significant issues. The glossy tiles became dangerously slippery when wet, leading to a few minor falls. Additionally, the high shine made water spots and streaks highly visible, requiring constant cleaning.
Frustrated with their choice, they visited our Joshua Tiles store for expert advice. After discussing their concerns, we recommended matte porcelain tiles, which offer superior slip resistance and lower maintenance while still looking stylish. After making the switch, John and Lisa were thrilled with the results—no more slipping hazards, and their bathroom now feels safer and more practical. Their experience highlights the importance of choosing tiles that balance beauty and functionality.
Final Tips for Choosing Bathroom Tiles
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Consider slip resistance ratings for floor tiles.
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Stick to neutral or timeless colours for longevity.
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Invest in high-quality grout and sealants to extend tile life.
At Joshua Tiles, we stay on top of the latest trends to bring you the best flooring and tile options. Whether you’re after a sleek modern look, a cozy natural feel, or a budget-friendly solution, we’ve got you covered. Ready to update your space? Get in touch with us today!