Where to Buy Bathroom Tiles: I Asked Interior Designers Where They Actually Shop
- Beril Yilmaz
- 3 hours ago
- 6 min read
Choosing tiles is one of the most exciting—and overwhelming—parts of designing a bathroom. Tiles don’t just protect your walls and floors from moisture; they define the overall mood of the space. From sleek spa-like retreats to bold, character-filled bathrooms, the right tile choice can instantly elevate your design.
With endless styles, finishes, materials, and price points available, knowing where to buy bathroom tiles can make all the difference. Some retailers specialize in affordable everyday tiles, while others focus on luxury finishes, handmade designs, or large-format statement pieces. Understanding what each retailer offers helps you shop smarter and avoid costly mistakes.
Whether you’re planning a full renovation or a simple refresh, this guide breaks down the best places to buy bathroom tiles, what to look for before purchasing, and how to choose tiles that suit both your style and lifestyle.
At a Glance: What You’ll Learn in This Guide
The best places to buy bathroom tiles for every budget
Differences between budget, mid-range, and luxury tile retailers
How to choose tiles based on durability, finish, and placement
Online vs in-store tile shopping pros and cons
Tips for ordering samples and avoiding design mistakes
Where to find statement tiles, timeless classics, and modern designs
1. Where to Buy Bathroom Tiles: What to Consider Before You Shop
Before diving into retailers, it’s essential to understand what you’re actually shopping for. Bathroom tiles aren’t one-size-fits-all, and the best retailer for you depends on your priorities.
Start with function. Floor tiles need to be slip-resistant and durable, while wall tiles allow more freedom in texture, gloss, and shape. Wet zones such as showers require tiles with low water absorption, usually porcelain or glazed ceramic.
Next comes style and scale. Large-format tiles create a seamless, modern look with fewer grout lines, while small-format tiles—like mosaics or finger tiles—add texture and visual interest. Finish matters too: gloss reflects light and brightens small bathrooms, while matt finishes feel softer and more contemporary.
Finally, set a realistic budget. Tile prices vary dramatically, and it’s important to factor in waste, trims, grout, and installation costs. Once you know what you’re looking for, choosing where to buy bathroom tiles becomes far easier.
2. Where to Buy Bathroom Tiles: Best Budget-Friendly Retailers
If you’re renovating on a budget, there are excellent retailers offering stylish tiles without the premium price tag.
B&Q
B&Q is a reliable choice for accessible, trend-led tiles at affordable prices. Their bathroom tile collections include classic metro tiles, stone-effect porcelain, and modern concrete-look finishes. Ideal for family bathrooms, rental properties, or quick upgrades, B&Q tiles balance cost and durability.
Wickes
Wickes is well-known for practical, budget-conscious tile ranges. Their bathroom tiles often focus on neutral palettes, pressed-edge ceramics, and versatile porcelain options suitable for both walls and floors. Wickes is particularly strong if you want cohesive tile collections that are easy to mix and match.
Homebase
Homebase offers a curated tile selection that leans toward classic and transitional styles. If you’re looking for timeless whites, soft greys, or subtle textures, this is a good place to browse without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Where to Buy Bathroom Tiles: Mid-Range Specialists for Style and Variety
Mid-range tile retailers are often the sweet spot for homeowners who want elevated design without luxury-level pricing.
Topps Tiles
Topps Tiles is one of the most popular destinations for bathroom tiles in the UK. Their collections include terrazzo, wood-effect porcelain, encaustic-inspired designs, and large-format tiles. They also provide helpful in-store advice and layout guidance, making them ideal for first-time renovators.
Tile Mountain
Tile Mountain is known for trend-forward designs and competitive pricing. Their bathroom tile range includes textured tiles, stone-effect slabs, and contemporary colour palettes. This retailer is particularly strong for modern and minimalist bathrooms.
Walls and Floors
Walls and Floors offers a broad range of bathroom tiles, from subtle neutrals to bold patterned options. Their website includes inspiration galleries and visual tools that help you imagine tiles in real-life settings.
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4. Where to Buy Bathroom Tiles: Luxury and Designer Tile Suppliers
For those creating a statement bathroom or a high-end space, luxury tile suppliers offer materials and craftsmanship that stand apart.
Fired Earth
Fired Earth is synonymous with refined design. Their bathroom tiles include handcrafted ceramics, marble, terrazzo, and heritage-inspired patterns. While more expensive, these tiles bring depth, texture, and timeless elegance to bathrooms.
Artisan Tile Company
Artisan Tile Company specializes in premium tiles, including natural stone, zellige-style ceramics, and decorative mosaics. If you’re designing a bespoke bathroom or want a standout feature wall, this retailer delivers exceptional quality.
Porcelain Superstore
Porcelain Superstore bridges the gap between luxury and accessibility. Their collections focus on contemporary design, large-format porcelain, and statement finishes that feel architectural and modern.
5. Where to Buy Bathroom Tiles: Online Marketplaces and Alternatives
Online marketplaces offer convenience, variety, and sometimes unexpected finds—but they require careful consideration.
Amazon
Amazon carries everything from peel-and-stick tile stickers to ceramic mosaics. While not ideal for full bathroom renovations, it’s a useful resource for small updates, decorative accents, or temporary solutions.
Etsy
Etsy is an excellent source for handmade tiles, custom mosaics, and artisan designs. If you’re after something unique and are willing to wait for production, this can be a great way to personalize your bathroom.
6. Where to Buy Bathroom Tiles: Online vs In-Store Shopping
Shopping online offers convenience and access to a wider range of styles, while in-store shopping allows you to see texture, colour, and scale in person.
Online retailers often provide detailed product descriptions, room visuals, and customer reviews. However, screens can distort colour, which is why ordering samples is essential.
In-store showrooms allow you to feel finishes, compare tones under real lighting, and receive professional advice. Many homeowners find a hybrid approach works best—research online, then visit a showroom before committing.
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7. Where to Buy Bathroom Tiles: Tips for Ordering and Planning
Always order 10–15% extra tiles to allow for cuts and waste. Check batch numbers to ensure colour consistency, especially with natural stone or handmade tiles.
Confirm whether tiles are suitable for walls, floors, or both. Not all wall tiles are strong enough for floor use, even if they look similar.
Finally, think long-term. Trends come and go, but bathrooms are expensive to redo. Choose tiles you’ll still love years from now.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Place to Buy Bathroom Tiles
Knowing where to buy bathroom tiles is just as important as choosing the tiles themselves. From budget-friendly retailers to luxury specialists, each store offers something different—and the best choice depends on your style, budget, and project scope.
Take time to research, order samples, and plan layouts carefully. With the right approach, your tiles can transform your bathroom into a space that feels both functional and beautifully designed.
If you want expert guidance selecting tiles, layouts, and finishes that work together seamlessly, professional design support can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Buy Bathroom Tiles
Where is the best place to buy bathroom tiles?
The best place depends on your budget and style. Budget retailers are ideal for simple updates, while specialist tile stores offer more variety and design-led options.
Is it cheaper to buy bathroom tiles online?
Online tiles can be cheaper, but always factor in delivery costs and order samples to avoid colour surprises.
What tiles are best for bathroom floors?
Porcelain tiles with a matt or textured finish are best for bathroom floors due to their durability and slip resistance.
Should bathroom wall and floor tiles match?
They don’t have to. Mixing tiles can add depth and interest, but keeping a cohesive colour palette helps the space feel intentional.
How many bathroom tile samples should I order?
Order at least 2–3 samples per option and view them in your bathroom at different times of day.
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Author Bio
Beril Yilmaz is the founder of BY Design And Viz, an online interior and exterior design studio specialising in clear layouts, thoughtful architectural details, and design decisions that support how people actually live. With a background in architecture and a practical design approach, her work focuses on creating homes that feel considered, functional, and intentionally designed.
