Transform Your Kitchen with These 20 Splashback Ideas

Kitchen splashbacks are essential in every home, providing protection against splashes and spills while also enhancing the kitchen’s aesthetic appeal. Even the most meticulous cooks will experience oil splatters, condensation, and residue build-up on their kitchen walls. The right splashback can not only mask this grime but also make cleaning easier. Moreover, a well-chosen splashback can elevate your kitchen from ordinary to extraordinary, offering a budget-friendly way to update your space.

Why Splashbacks Matter

Splashbacks play a dual role: they protect your walls from cooking mishaps and add a design element that can transform your kitchen. Whether you have a neutral kitchen or one that’s already bursting with color, a splashback can add a pop of color, texture, or a rustic charm that stands out. From affordable options to high-end materials, there’s a splashback to suit every style and budget.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Splashback

When selecting a splashback, consider the following:

• Visibility of Grime: How well will it hide dirt and splashes?
• Ease of Cleaning: Is it easy to clean and maintain?
• Durability: Can it withstand the wear and tear of a busy kitchen?
• Cost: Does it fit within your budget?
• Safety: Is it safe to use near cooktops, especially gas burners?

Here are 20 splashback ideas to inspire your next kitchen renovation.

1. Toughened Glass Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Clean and modern
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	High wear and tear resistance
Cost	$$-$$$
Safety	Suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Toughened glass splashbacks can be painted on the reverse in a variety of colors. They add a sleek, modern look to any kitchen. Ensure any wall imperfections are fixed before installation, as they can show through the glass.

2. Printed Glass Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Stylish and customizable
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	Excellent
Cost	$$$
Safety	Safe but not within 150mm of gas burners

Tips

Printed glass offers endless design possibilities and hides splashes well. It’s resistant to heat and moisture, making it perfect for busy kitchens.

3. Mirrored/Silvered Glass Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Reflective, makes spaces appear larger
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	Excellent
Cost	$$$
Safety	Suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Mirrored glass can create the illusion of more space and adds a touch of glamour to your kitchen. Always choose toughened safety glass for durability.

4. Slumped Glass Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Textured and unique
Cleaning	More challenging due to grooves
Durability	High
Cost	$$$
Safety	Not suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Slumped glass offers a three-dimensional look that can be harder to clean but adds a unique visual interest to your kitchen.

5. Stainless Steel Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Industrial and sleek
Cleaning	Moderate difficulty, streaks easily
Durability	High
Cost	$$$
Safety	Suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Stainless steel is hygienic and easy to wipe down but can show streaks and fingerprints. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain its look.

6. Pressed Metal Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Vintage and decorative
Cleaning	Difficult, prone to denting
Durability	Low
Cost	$$
Safety	Safe if thicker than 5mm

Tips

For a vintage charm, consider pressed metal tiles that mimic the look but are more durable and easier to clean.

7. Glass Tiles Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Varied colors and patterns
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	High
Cost	$$$ (installation can be costly)
Safety	Varies

Tips

Glass tiles offer diverse design options but require expert installation, especially if transparent.

8. Ceramic Tiles Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Classic and versatile
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	High
Cost	$
Safety	Suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Ceramic tiles are affordable and available in many styles. The popular subway tile pattern adds a timeless look to any kitchen.

9. Porcelain Tiles Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Elegant and durable
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	Very high
Cost	$$-$$$
Safety	Suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Porcelain tiles are tougher than ceramic and wear well in busy kitchens. They can also be used for flooring for a seamless look.

10. Large Format Porcelain Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Modern and sleek
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	Extremely high
Cost	$$$$
Safety	Suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Large-format porcelain tiles create a modern, seamless look and are very durable and heat resistant.

11. Timber Lining Boards Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Rustic and charming
Cleaning	Difficult
Durability	Moderate
Cost	$
Safety	Not suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Timber lining boards add warmth to a kitchen but require more maintenance and care due to their combustibility and susceptibility to denting.

12. Timber Veneer Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Natural and elegant
Cleaning	Easy to clean if sealed
Durability	Moderate
Cost	$-$$$
Safety	Not suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Ensure timber veneer is sealed with a polyurethane finish to enhance durability and ease of cleaning.

13. Natural Stone Splashbacks (Granite/Marble)

Feature	Details
Appearance	Luxurious and timeless
Cleaning	Moderate, needs sealing
Durability	Very high
Cost	$$-$$$
Safety	Suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Natural stone like granite or marble adds a touch of luxury but requires sealing to prevent stains and make cleaning easier.

14. Engineered Stone Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Seamless and modern
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	Very high
Cost	$$-$$$
Safety	Not suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Engineered stone is perfect for a seamless look from countertops to splashbacks but needs a different material near cooktops.

15. Laminate Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Versatile and affordable
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	Moderate
Cost	$
Safety	Not suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Laminate is a budget-friendly option available in many colors and patterns, but it should not be used near high heat sources.

16. Corian Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Seamless and modern
Cleaning	Easy to clean
Durability	Moderate
Cost	$$$
Safety	Not suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Corian allows for seamless joints and can be backlit for a dramatic effect. It can be scratched but is easy to polish.

17. Roller Shutters Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Practical and modern
Cleaning	Moderate
Durability	High
Cost	$$$
Safety	Not suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Roller shutters are great for hiding appliances and storage, adding functionality to your kitchen.

18. Painted Plaster Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Simple and cost-effective
Cleaning	Difficult
Durability	Low
Cost	$
Safety	Not suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

While cost-effective, painted plaster lacks durability and is not ideal for areas exposed to heavy use and moisture.

19. Raw Brick Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Rustic and unique
Cleaning	Very difficult
Durability	High
Cost	$
Safety	Suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Raw brick provides a rustic look but is hard to clean. Sealing the brick can help reduce grime build-up.

20. Raw Bluestone Splashbacks

Feature	Details
Appearance	Natural and rustic
Cleaning	Very difficult
Durability	High
Cost	$$
Safety	Suitable within 200mm of gas burners

Tips

Bluestone is heat-resistant and durable but very porous, making it difficult to clean. Sealing is essential to prevent stains.

What Do Designers Recommend

Choosing the perfect splashback for your kitchen can be daunting, but designers have valuable insights to help guide your decision. Here are some expert recommendations from design blogs and articles:

1. From Houzz: “Glass splashbacks are a popular choice among designers for their sleek look and easy maintenance. They reflect light beautifully and can make a kitchen feel more spacious.” – Houzz
2. From Better Homes and Gardens: “Many designers recommend using large format porcelain tiles for splashbacks because they offer a seamless appearance and are highly durable against heat and moisture.” – Better Homes and Gardens
3. From Elle Decor: “Mirrored glass splashbacks are trending in modern kitchens for their ability to visually expand the space and add a touch of sophistication.” – Elle Decor
4. From Apartment Therapy: “For those seeking a rustic or industrial look, stainless steel splashbacks are highly recommended. They are durable, easy to clean, and add a professional kitchen feel.” – Apartment Therapy
5. From Architectural Digest: “Natural stone, such as marble or granite, is a timeless choice for splashbacks. It adds elegance and a sense of luxury to any kitchen.” – Architectural Digest

These insights from design experts highlight the importance of considering style, functionality, and durability when selecting a splashback for your kitchen. Whether you prefer the sleek modernity of glass or the timeless appeal of natural stone, there’s a splashback option that can enhance both the aesthetics and practicality of your kitchen space.

Final Tips for Choosing Your Splashback

Choosing the right splashback involves more than just aesthetics. Here are some final tips to ensure you make the best decision:

• Consult a Professional: Ensure your chosen splashback meets all safety standards and regulations, especially if it will be near a cooktop.
• Consider Maintenance: Choose a material that fits your cleaning routine and lifestyle. Some materials require more upkeep than others.
• Match Your Style: Select a splashback that complements your kitchen’s design and enhances its overall look. Whether you prioritize durability, ease of cleaning, or aesthetic appeal, there’s a splashback solution that’s perfect for your kitchen.