Updated September 2024
Hopefully you discovered a newfound love of cooking in the last year (there’s a silver lining, right?)! As much as we can all find joy in cooking and baking - and eating - we’re pretty sure no one enjoys the clean up that follows. Whether you’re an amateur cook, a seasoned chef with almost pro-level skills, or someone in between – making a mess while cooking is unavoidable. From spilling mixes on your countertop to splatters on your stove and walls, your kitchen can go from magazine cover fabulous to more than a little lived in with just one meal!
Cooking delicious meals is the sign of a well-loved kitchen, for sure, but any cook knows you pay the price for that tasty dinner or bunch once the time comes to clean up. Oil splatters and sauce spills can take a heavy toll on painted walls behind the stove, not to mention smoky residue from meals cooked in a pan! The natural solution is an attractive and easy to clean tile backsplash behind the stove!
Our Camila Decorative Star and White Cross Porcelain Tile are after-picture worthy!
Why is installing backsplash tile behind the stove a wise decision to extend the life of your kitchen? Not only does easy-to-wipe-down tile prevent all the elbow grease from scrubbing, but also it can also set up the perfect look for your kitchen decor. A well-chosen stove backsplash will pull double duty, protecting walls from messes and splashes while creating a statement look in your cooking zone.
The options are just about infinite when it comes to choosing tiles for a stove backsplash , but you'll want to make some key decisions before you make your final choice. Which tile backsplash is the easiest to wipe clean? What style is your kitchen – do you want the same tiles to span the entire kitchen wall, or want a pop behind the range? How can you preserve your beautiful tiles while making the best use of your kitchen?
We created this post to guide you on how to find the perfect backdrop for your cooking area which can be a unique statement for your kitchen décor that meets all your design and cleaning needs, all at the same time!
What to Look For in Tiles Behind the Stove
Did you know that there are unique aspects of cooking zones that you need to take into account when choosing backsplash tile behind the stove? There are many styles that are stunningly beautiful, but may need extra steps to make them the best fit for that backsplash area. No matter how you manage cooking in your kitchen,
- Grease
- Heat
- Moisture
- Stains
will always have a sneaky way of making it into your stove backsplash tiles! That means you want tiles that look good, while being resistant to all of the above, or at the very least, easy to clean!
The following are the top contenders for a tile backsplash design behind the stove that will satisfy all your design needs while taking everything into account.
Read on for a guide to how each tile material performs in terms of cleaning and maintenance in a kitchen area, before you commit to your final backsplash design!
Glass Backsplash Tiles
Instead of merely doing a backsplash, this kitchen runs Silver Glass Penny Round Mosaic Tile up to the ceiling for a glamorous kitchen wall decor– this high-shine glass tile kitchen backsplash catches the light and emphasizes modern interior style for a glamorous industrial home!
Glass tiles are easily wiped down after a marathon cooking endeavor, and are therefore a popular choice for kitchen designs. Even when your stove backsplash consists of multiple glass tiles of varying sizes, you’ll need very little time to remove even the toughest stains as the slippery smooth surface of glass requires only a damp rag to make your tile backsplash look new! Add the heat-resistant surface and plethora of color options of glass - what more can you ask for?
Pro tip: When placed behind the cooking appliances like your stovetop, certain types of glass tiles may need additional grout space to allow for the glass to expand as a result of the heat. Just be sure to thoroughly read the specs of glass tiles, and check with the manufacturer before undertaking the installation process.
Porcelain and Ceramic Backsplash Tiles
Beautiful wood look tiles create depth and dimension to this traditional kitchen style.
Ceramic or porcelain tiles for a backsplash behind the stove provides a durable, heat-resistant surface that combats inevitable oil splatters and sauce splashes, while offering tons of room for a creative kitchen wall décor. Usually with a cost effective price tag per square foot, and a vast array of colors and textures, these tiles are one of the best low-maintenance options if you’re trying to make things a little easier for yourself! With a Zellige tile backsplash surface, you won’t have to worry about scrubbing tomato stains off the walls even if you have a pure white tile backsplash such as in this elegantly clean kitchen design.
See our collection of Ceramic Backsplash Tiles to find the perfect color and finish for your kitchen!
Marble Backsplash Tiles
The beauty of Waterfall Azul Cielo & Thassos Marble Mosaic Tile Polished is well worth the little extra effort to preserve its beauty and elegance that can last for many years.
Marble tiles, on the other end of the spectrum, are attractive options for a beautiful backsplash design behind a stove, with a durable finish that’s naturally resistant to heat. Nothing leaves quite the impression as a luxurious marble and natural stone backsplash, but true beauty needs to be maintained and protected.
First, the more "natural" your stones are – meaning the more textured and rough – grease and stains are more likely to seek out the nooks and crannies in your tile backsplash. It’s a good idea to choose stone tiles with a smooth appearance, instead of textured or tumbled stones.
Second, whether you have marble, travertine, slate, or any other natural stone, you need to make sure your tiles are sealed on a regular basis to avoid stains being soaked up, as all natural stone tiles are porous.
At the end of the day, it’s well worth it to enjoy the sophisticated look that a stone backsplash adds to any kitchen décor! Whether you love a classic marble subway tile design or add an artistic touch with a marble mosaic pattern, there are endless and beautiful options to create the perfect look for your kitchen!
Designer Tip - White marble kitchens are consistently beloved for remodels and new build homes - the proper stone and tile sealant will ensure the best long life for your beautiful white marble tiles!
Shell and Pearl Backsplash Tiles -
Our Pure White Mother Of Pearl Tight Joints Square Mosaic adds a glamorous glow even tucked underneath cabinets behind the stove.
Mother of Pearl shell tiles have become a must have for glamorous homes! Despite their delicate and luminous glow, they’re a surprisingly durable tile material! This stunning natural material is trimmed from the inner surface of sea shells to bring a pearly finish to mosaic tiles. They pair beautifully with other favorites like marble, ceramic, and glass, or absolutely stun all on their own!
Although the pearl surface is extremely resilient - making it a natural choice to combat heavy duty scrubbing after you cook - it does require some care to maintain. It is always recommended that you seal your beautiful shell tiles to make sure they have the longest life possible. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners to keep from abrading the surface to make sure the shine stays as beautiful as possible! If properly sealed and cared for, you should be able to easily wipe up splatters from your Mother of Pearl backsplash tiles with a damp cloth.
Another perk of Mother of Pearl shell tiles for behind the stove? There are many groutless tile options available! Fewer grout lines means even less to scrub, another win-win. You may need to apply a small amount of grout to fill in between mosaic sheets, but these tiles create an otherwise seamless finish.
Design Inspiration: Hot Looks for a Backsplash Design over the Stove
Once you’ve decided which tile material works best for your lifestyle, now it’s time for the fun part: scrolling through for design inspiration!
We know it’s hard not to feel a little overwhelmed when sky's the limit for a backsplash tile design, so browse our favorite picks to inspire your own makeover
Get Creative with Patterned Tiles
Whether your kitchen leans towards traditional or ultra-modern, a black-and-white patterned tile backsplash makes a bold design statement that keeps the rest of your décor mostly understated. The monochrome effect of Black and white weaved hexagon glass mosaic tile backsplash adds a graphic statement with a retro feel, just like a fun polka dot pattern in this modernly designed kitchen.
Time to Shine
Want to add some instant shine to the kitchen? Go with a glass tile kitchen backsplash and dress up your walls with the mesmerizing smooth surface of glass tiles that catches the light!! No matter what color you choose, the luminosity of a glass subway tile backsplash can transform any space by making it appear brighter and more appealing. Earthy yet vibrant, Stardust Suede 2x8 Glass Mosaic Tile creates a glass subway tile backsplash design with a pearly beauty to fit in modern to glam style. To add even more dimension to the reflective glass walls, line dark color subway tiles with white grout for a crisp look!
Affordable and Upscale Peel and Stick Kitchen Backsplash Options
Is cost a limiting factor in your tight renovation budget? You can still create an upscale vibe without spending a fortune with peel and stick backsplash tiles, such as Carrara Hexagon Peel and Stick Tile that looks surprisingly expensive in this kitchen design!
While a DIY project with peel and stick backsplash tiles is easier than you think, just keep the following few tips in mind to complete it in the easiest and safest way behind your stove area;
- Make sure there’s at least 8 ”- 9” between the burner and the tile surface, or a back control panel on the stove to provide distance.
- Always follow fire codes when installing your stove
- Peel-and-stick marble tile does not need to be grouted, but you can use an unsanded grout for touch ups if there are gaps between the discs.
- Once the peel and stick stove backsplash completely adheres to the surface – generally after 48 hours – it’s resistant to the heat of your stove.
- Ensure at least 2” of distance between the peel and stick backsplash tiles and other appliances that put off heat - such as toaster ovens, toasters, InstantPots, etc.
Ready for a DIY project this weekend? Discover more peel and stick backsplash tile choices for your budget-friendly upgrade and check out the ‘how to’ guide’ to learn all the tricks regardless of skill or experience!
Add a Decorative Tile Insert
Looking for a one-of-a-kind design behind the stove? Build a decorative tile insert from scratch by creating your own pattern within a field of tiles and distinguish it from the surrounding tiles by choosing a different shape or size! You can add a decorative tile insert while sticking to the monochromatic palette of the room– this backsplash design behind the stove adds so much character to this all-white kitchen that it instantly becomes the distinctive feature of the whole décor! The beautiful patterns of Chateau White Spring Ceramic Mosaic Tile and Chateau White Square Ceramic Mosaic Tile pull all the focus, surrounded by Chateau White 3x6 Ceramic Tiles. Add the matching ceramic trim tile and you’re all set to create a backsplash medallion that will serve your style!
Go for a Splash of Color
Even a backsplash can be a work of art! If you're looking to add a punch of color to an otherwise neutral kitchen, consider a decorative tile medallion that looks almost like a painting. Creating a show-stopping kitchen backsplash design doesn't require a huge splurge. Feature only a touch of color and texture behind the cooking area – like in this kitchen where the vivid colors of Siesta Spanish Mosaic Tile transforms the whole kitchen surrounded by the subtle tone of White Matte Ceramic Subway Wall Tile 4x12. Break up the silence with a decorative tile insert in bright colors or artistic patterns, cut down on costs by pairing them with affordable white subway tile backsplash throughout the rest of the kitchen.
Create a Unique Tile Design
If you love the energetic look of chevron, herringbone, or diamond patterns, incorporate that motif into your kitchen with a geometric tile backsplash behind the stove. A geometric mosaic tile backsplash in white marble makes it easy to create iconic designs while keeping it subtle with similar hues. Take cue from this space, where white and gray marble stripes in Medieval Diamonds Calacatta Gold & Lagos Azul Mosaic Tile makes the kitchen backsplash design just noticeable enough without overpowering the neutral color scheme.
Exercise your earth-friendly mindset with a recycled glass tile kitchen backsplash – such as in this kitchen backsplash where variegated pieces of White Leaf Recycled Glass Mosaic Tile add a contemporary feel to this small kitchen outfitted with white cabinetry and black countertops. Even if your home isn’t a place of sustainability, recycled glass tiles might be a great addition to a green kitchen that speaks some style!
The Sky is the Limit!
Why stop at the cabinets when you can extend your tile backsplash all the way to the ceiling? This is a great opportunity to make your kitchen feel taller and visually expand a narrow kitchen while creating a more ‘high end’ look. To create depth and drama by making the backsplash tile the center of attention in your kitchen décor, try to stay with a color that complements the overall scheme – such as how Azul Cielo Thassos and Carrara Mini Chevron Marble Mosaic Tile pairs well with the other surfaces in this neutral kitchen.
A Rustic Home Touch
Whether you’re going for a rustic look or a modern spin on a classic farmhouse style kitchen, wood-look tiles provide the perfect tile backsplash for a homemade touch with some extra warm charm! To bring in the homey feel of wood with a luxe appeal, a kitchen backsplash is designed with Roman Flower Wooden Beige And Carrara Marble Mosaic Tile– don’t you instantly get drawn into this warm kitchen? With wood-look backsplash tiles, you have all the moisture, heat and stain resistance of hardwood in the most striking styles!
The area behind your stove is the worst place to clean grease spots and food splatters, and any variety of mess that doesn’t get wiped right away. Choosing backsplash tile behind the stove is the perfect opportunity to create a surface that’s easy to wipe clean, and avoid your cleaning nightmares after cooking a meal. At the same time, it’s a great opportunity to be creative! With the more square footage of wall space above the range, don’t be afraid to spice it up with a showy centerpiece, play up with pattern or use the same tiles in a different way to make your kitchen décor stand out!
Got your stove backsplash ideas figured out? Share your favorite design ideas with us in the comment section below – we’d like to know!
