What bathroom tile is outdated?

In the ever-evolving world of bathroom design, some tile trends have fallen out of favor or are considered outdated as new styles emerge. While personal taste plays a role in what’s “outdated,” there are certain tile choices that have become less popular or are seen as less stylish in modern bathrooms. Here are the top bathroom tiles that are considered outdated or on their way out in 2024:

1. Wall-to-Wall Carpet Tiles

• Why it’s outdated: While carpet was once used in bathrooms, it’s no longer considered a practical or stylish choice due to hygiene issues and difficulty in maintaining it in high-moisture areas. Even tile that mimics carpet patterns or textures is generally avoided today.
• Why avoid it: Carpet retains moisture, promoting mold and mildew growth, which is particularly problematic in bathrooms. It also looks dated and doesn’t offer the sleek, modern aesthetic many homeowners want.

2. Busy, Highly Patterned Tiles

• Why it’s outdated: Intricate, busy patterns like floral tiles, overly colorful geometric prints, or tiles with strong motifs were once trendy, especially in retro or vintage-inspired bathrooms. However, they can overwhelm the space and make it feel smaller or cluttered.
• Why avoid it: Overly decorative patterns can quickly date a bathroom. Modern bathrooms tend to favor cleaner, more minimalist aesthetics that feel airy and relaxing, so bold patterns are being replaced with subtler designs.

3. Large-Scale Ceramic Tiles (with Glossy Finish)

• Why it’s outdated: Large, high-gloss ceramic tiles were once a popular choice for bathroom floors and walls, but they have become less popular. While they can look sleek, they can feel cold and impersonal, especially in small spaces.
• Why avoid it: Glossy tiles are also prone to showing water spots, soap scum, and grime, which can make maintenance difficult. Matte or satin finishes are now preferred for a more contemporary, soft look that’s easier to maintain.

4. Pink, Mint Green, and Light Blue Tiles

• Why it’s outdated: These pastel colors were extremely popular in bathrooms from the 1950s through the 1980s. While they can still work in retro-style bathrooms, they’re generally considered old-fashioned today.
• Why avoid it: These colors tend to be polarizing and are often seen as dated. They can also limit the ability to redecorate or make the space feel modern. Buyers and designers today tend to gravitate toward neutral tones like gray, white, and beige.

5. Subway Tiles in Excessive Amounts

• Why it’s outdated: Subway tiles (the classic 3x6 inch white tiles) have been a staple in bathroom design for a long time. However, the overuse of subway tiles, particularly when covering entire walls or using them in large, continuous runs without any other texture or variation, has fallen out of favor.
• Why avoid it: While subway tiles are still classic and can look great when used thoughtfully, their overuse can make a bathroom feel bland, uninspired, or generic. Modern design favors adding a bit more personality and texture, such as combining subway tiles with other materials like natural stone or adding accent tiles.

6. Bright, Shiny, and Reflective Glass Tiles

• Why it’s outdated: Reflective glass tiles (especially the bright, shiny varieties) were popular in the early 2000s but are becoming increasingly less favored. They can look dated, particularly in modern bathrooms where matte finishes and more natural textures are preferred.
• Why avoid it: Glass tiles can be prone to scratching and are high-maintenance. Additionally, they can create a "90s" or "early-2000s" aesthetic that doesn't feel fresh or current. The reflective nature can also feel too bright or harsh in some bathroom designs.

7. Highly Glossy Porcelain or Ceramic Tile Floors

• Why it’s outdated: While glossy porcelain tiles look attractive in showrooms, they are prone to being slippery, especially when wet. Glossy tiles also highlight smudges, water spots, and soap scum, making them harder to maintain in the long run.
• Why avoid it: Matte finishes or textured tiles are more practical and provide better grip and safety in wet conditions. The high-shine finish is often replaced by more sophisticated matte or satin looks.

8. Tiled Borders and Accent Tiles (Overuse)

• Why it’s outdated: Decorative borders or accent tiles that were once popular for breaking up large areas of tile or creating focal points have fallen out of favor. These are typically used around bathtubs or as trims around shower areas.
• Why avoid it: The overuse of borders or small accent tiles can make the bathroom look dated and overly fussy. Modern design tends to lean toward seamless, flowing surfaces with minimal interruptions.

9. Marble-Look Ceramic Tiles

• Why it’s outdated: Marble-look ceramic tiles were once the go-to option for achieving the high-end look of natural marble without the price tag. However, many homeowners are now seeking authentic materials or more unique alternatives.
• Why avoid it: While marble-look ceramics still have a place in some bathroom designs, the market is shifting toward authentic stone, terrazzo, or porcelain tiles with more sophisticated designs. Real marble also offers more natural variety and a unique look.

10. Square or Rectangular Tiles (in Standard Sizes)

• Why it’s outdated: Traditional square or rectangular tiles (like 4x4 inch tiles) are considered outdated in terms of their style and layout. They were a staple in bathrooms for decades but are now being replaced with larger, more modern tiles like 12x24 inch or 24x24 inch formats.
• Why avoid it: Smaller, standard-sized tiles can make a bathroom feel choppy or disjointed. Larger tiles create a more spacious, streamlined look and reduce the number of grout lines, which is easier to clean.

What to Consider Instead:

• Matte Finishes: Matte tiles are more sophisticated and easier to maintain than glossy ones.
• Large-format Tiles: These are trending in both walls and floors, providing a sleek, contemporary look.
• Natural Stone: Materials like marble, slate, and travertine are making a strong comeback and are often used in large formats.
• Terrazzo Tiles: This material is increasingly popular for a vintage yet modern aesthetic.
• Bold and Unique Patterns: Subway tiles in moderation are still trendy, but combining them with more modern designs, like herringbone, chevron, or even geometric patterns, is a better option.
• Wood-Look Tiles: These tiles mimic the appearance of wood and are both beautiful and water-resistant, ideal for adding warmth and texture to a bathroom.

Summary:

While tile trends continue to evolve, bathrooms in 2024 are moving away from overly shiny, busy, or dated designs. Instead, neutral colors, large-format tiles, matte finishes, and natural materials are becoming the norm. When remodeling or designing a bathroom, it’s best to stick with timeless options and consider how well the design will age, as well as how easy the materials are to maintain.