Selecting the Right Tile Size for Your Small Bathroom Floor

Selecting the Right Tile Size for Your Small Bathroom Floor

Adding tiling to your bathroom space can make it feel much more inviting and luxurious. However, many homeowners fall short of knowing what the right size, color, and style of tile will work best for their space. This is particularly true when trying to select the right flooring for small bathroom spaces. Even the tiniest bathroom can look and feel much bigger by selecting the right size tile. Here is what you should know.

Recommended Tile Size for Small Bathrooms

The size that you select for your bathroom tiles will depend on where they are going to be installed. Each area of the bathroom warrants its own specific size to ensure you make the most of your space.

Wall Tiles

When selecting the tile for your bathroom walls, the best option typically stands somewhere between the 4 x 4-inch square tile and the 12 x 12-inch square tile. To make your room feel taller, consider a vertically positioned 3 x 6-inch rectangular tile. For narrow bathroom spaces, install the tiles in a horizontal position instead to make the room feel longer. 

In addition, you can create a more luxurious look in your space by incorporating neutral-colored, oversized tiles, such as 12 x 24-inch slabs with matching grout.

Floor Tiles

Most bathroom spaces have tiles that range from 1 x 1 inch up to 12 x 12 inches in size. However, incorporating small 1-inch or 2-inch squares into a mosaic design is another option that we are seeing more of. 

Small tiles can create a more lively appearance, while medium-to-large-sized tiles, such as 12 x 18 inches or 12 x 24-inch tiles with matching grout, can create a look of timeless elegance.

Shower Wall Tiles

Many designers recommend the use of a tile that ranges between 1 to 4 inches in size. Depending on the look you want to achieve, you can lay shower wall tiles individually or as a mosaic tile sheet for easier installation. In some cases, homeowners opt for medium size tiles to create borders, inlays, and built-in shelving.

Shower Floor Tiles

Having tile that is too large on the floor of the shower can make the space look too busy. Instead, opt for a 1-inch square tile for your flooring. Not only will this ensure that your tiles are not competing with each other, but it will also help to ensure you can achieve the necessary slope for draining.

Other Factors to Consider

In addition to selecting the right size tile, there are other factors you should consider.


  • Color: Dark colors can create a much smaller feeling for the space. For this reason, you should opt for lighter colors for small spaces.
  • Grout Color: A matching color grout or a grout that is a similar color to the tiles can create a more seamless look that can help to elongate the appearance of the space. 
  • Setting Pattern: Laying your tiles in a horizontal position can create a much wider-looking space. Vertical tiles can make the space feel taller and draw attention toward the ceiling.

You can reach out to our team at Y’s Way Flooring to explore all of the options available to finish your space.

Get Professional Help in Watertown, WI

If you are looking for tiling for your bathroom space, our Watertown, WI, professionals at Y’s Way Flooring are here to help. Our team can meet with you for a design consultation and go over all of the available options. We will help you better understand the impact that different-sized tiles can make and help you select the right option to transform your bathroom into a luxurious space you love. Contact us today at (920) 477-0870 to get started.