A well selected backsplash can create a stunning focal point in a kitchen. Lending high traffic spaces both character and warmth, these tiled panels are functional and fashionable. However, there’s one hidden drawback of some backsplash tiles that no one talks about — cleaning them of grease, food residue, and the messy spatters from skillets and saucepans. While backsplashes are designed to protect areas behind stoves, sinks and countertops from spills, not every type is made equal when it comes to dislodging dirt and grime with ease. We spoke to interior designer Artem Kropovinsky to get some insider info on which variety of backsplash tiles are the best and worst for keeping clean.
“Glossy tiles, like glazed ceramics, are easier to wipe down than porous or heavily textured ones,” explains Kropovinsky, the founder of New York based interior design firm
Arsight Studio
. “Minimize grout lines where possible and seal grout to prevent stains. Regular gentle cleaning with mild soap and water does the trick.”
Kitchen backsplash materials
can range from glass and concrete to porcelain and laminate. However, glazed or sealed ceramic tiles are the most popular option because they’re durable, water-resistant, and easy to keep clean. Tiles made from porous materials, such as travertine, stone, or unsealed ceramic, are far more susceptible to absorbing liquids and grease. When these substances penetrate the surface of porous tiles they can be very tricky to keep in an immaculate state, particularly in high-use areas exposed to cooking fats and heat.
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Textured Tiles Require More Elbow Grease To Clean Than Smooth Varieties
Backsplash panels made with tiles that have a textured surface, like stone, can lend a kitchen a grounded, natural feel. Their earthy vibe can also make a space feel calmer and spacious. However, the rugged surface of textured tiles does require more elbow grease when it comes to dislodging food residues. It’s not a simple case of swiping a wet cloth across them; you’ll have to get into all of the nooks, crannies, and valleys of these rough tiles to eliminate hard-to-reach splatters and stains. It’s also worth noting that smaller tiles will produce more grout lines that will need cleaning too. So, if you’re considering which
tiles and shade of grout to select for your backsplash
, you may want to go for larger, smooth luxury tiles or big panels that look like terrazzo or marble to minimize those grout lines and reduce the need for detailed cleaning. Alternatively, apply a clear glass sealant spray to your grout to make it stain resistant.
A budget-friendly backsplash trick that can save you on a full remodel
is to paint a block of color behind your stove that mimics the appearance of a large tile. You can run a wet cloth over the area to keep it clean as long as you use a wipeable paint. Better yet, you can cover up any marks that won’t come off with another lick of paint.
Read the
original article on Tasting Table
.
