How to Choose the Right Tile Based on the Room

When choosing a tile, is it more of a “one-tile-fits-everything” scenario, or should the area you tile impact your choice? It’s more complicated than you might think, especially since there are factors that relate to each room that you would need to consider before tiling them.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)

Kitchen

Kitchens are a high-traffic area in most homes, especially with the open-living style many homes adopt. Due to the number of people who would typically come in and out of the kitchen, you need to be wise with the type of tile you lay in this room.

There are so many ways you can use tiles in the kitchen! We’re talking about everything from floor tiles or backsplashes, to tiling around the sink, stove, or on the walls for practical or aesthetic purposes. The type of tile you use should depend on the purpose of the tile.

Porcelain tiles are typically an all-rounder for a kitchen as they’re harder, denser and less porous than ceramic tiles, so you know that they’ll be better at resisting moisture, stains, and will also wear better. In the kitchen, you might want to consider large-format tiles for the walls and floors to reduce the number of grout lines, making cleaning easier.

Bathroom

If there’s one thing that bathroom tiles need to be, it’s water-resistant. As is the nature of what happens in a bathroom, the tiles will inevitably get wet. With this in mind, you need to understand that choosing water-resistant tiles is the most practical option, and you need to think practicality over aesthetics in this particular room for your own comfort and safety.

A general rule of thumb for choosing bathroom tiles is to opt for ones with some texture. Texture gives you some grip when the tiles are wet, ensuring you don’t slip and fall. Thankfully, there are many options for textured tiles that also look amazing. For a stylish bathroom that feels like you’re at your own, personal spa, consider picking a natural stone, but be mindful that real stones need sealing. Another option is to go for a porcelain tile with a marbled look and feel. Accent tiles in the shower or a contrasting border can add personality without compromising practicality.

Living room

Living rooms should be all about ambience, but don’t think that means you need to sacrifice practicality. Tiles in this area are a fantastic idea, but as much as they need to look good, they also need to be able to support daily life.

Wood-look porcelain tiles are a standout choice here; they mimic hardwood in grain and texture but stand up to scratches, spills, and pet claws. Opt for warmer tones to keep the space inviting. Large-format tiles can open up the room and create a seamless visual flow. Combine tiles with underfloor heating for added comfort, especially in colder climates. And if you love the look of stone or concrete, porcelain versions offer the same aesthetic without the maintenance headaches.

Bedroom

Tiles? In the bedroom? Yes! While carpet has long dominated bedrooms, more homeowners are turning to tiles, especially in warm climates or minimalist homes. Use wood-look or stone-look tiles in soft, neutral tones for a cozy yet modern feel.

These materials ground the room while offering a serene backdrop for your furniture and decor. If bare tiles feel too cool underfoot, layer with area rugs to soften the look and add comfort. Unlike carpet, tiles won’t trap dust or allergens, making them a cleaner bedroom choice. Choose a finish that feels good under bare feet. Look for tiles labelled as “soft touch” or those with a satin finish.

Entryway

Hallways and entryways are constantly used by everyone who enters your home, so naturally, they need to be tiled with hardy tiles that can withstand more traffic. Porcelain tiles shine once again here, thanks to their durability and ease of cleaning.

You might want to consider using darker coloured tiles here or patterned designs with a textured finish to mask any first or scuffs on the surface of these tiles. A bit of texture will also ensure the surface is more slip-resistant, especially if you come home in the rain.

Laundry room

Laundry rooms might not be high-traffic, but they’re high-risk when it comes to water and chemical exposure. The flooring needs to stand up to detergent spills, water leaks, and the occasional dropped item.

Porcelain tiles are perfect here; they’re moisture-resistant, durable, and easy to sanitise. Glossy tiles on the wall behind appliances can reflect light and brighten small laundry spaces. On the floor, choose slip-resistant tiles to protect against wet socks or soap spills. If your laundry area is part of a mudroom or entry zone, consider extending the same tile throughout for visual continuity and easier cleaning.

Outdoors

Outdoor patios, balconies, and walkways demand tiles that handle rain, sun, and shifting temperatures. Exterior-grade porcelain tiles are made for this, frost-resistant, UV-stable, and often textured for slip resistance. Choose natural colours and materials that blend with the landscape, such as slate-look tiles or weathered concrete finishes. 

If you want real stone, like slate or travertine, be prepared for regular sealing and extra maintenance. Also, ensure your tile has a rough or textured finish; wet outdoor surfaces get slippery fast. Consider matching or coordinating indoor and outdoor tiles for a seamless transition if your patio connects to a living space.

Where to buy tiles

You can buy tile from many places in Australia, like your local Home Depot, for example. However, these shops are generally limited to the tiles they can store. If you’re looking for a large range of cheap floor tiles online, here’s a great page from Cheap Tiles Online. Here you’ll find a massive range of tiles suitable for any room in the house.

Final thoughts

Thankfully, many of the tiles you would use in your living room, bedroom, or hallway are very similar, so you don’t need to worry about being too particular. But when you’re considering floor or wall tiles for your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry, making sure you choose the right tiles is essential.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)