The Complete Guide to Backsplashes for White Cabinets
With their clean, crisp aesthetic, white kitchen cabinets never go out of style. But choosing the perfect backsplash to complement white cabinetry can be a decor dilemma. The right backsplash ties the whole kitchen together, adds visual interest, and protects your walls from spills and splatters.
We'll cover popular backsplash materials, colors, patterns, installation considerations, maintenance tips, and costs. Read on for everything you need to know to create a stunning kitchen backsplash that enhances your white cabinetry.
Complementing the White Cabinet Aesthetic
White kitchen cabinets boast a timeless, versatile appeal. They work well in both traditional and contemporary kitchens and pair nicely with any color scheme. The key is choosing a backsplash that complements the crisp, clean look.
Matching shades of white is one foolproof option. But don't be afraid to infuse some color with your backsplash choice. Contrasting hues like deep blue, charcoal gray, or even black make the white pop. Soft pastels like mint green, pale yellow, or robin's egg blue blend nicely too. The glossiness or texture of the material also impacts the overall vibe.
Most Popular Backsplash Materials for White Cabinets
Subway Tile
Classic white subway tiles offer an affordable, low-maintenance backsplash option with a vintage vibe. The simple rectangular shape and straight layout provides clean lines that highlight, rather than compete with, white cabinets.
While pure white is a popular choice, subtle blue and gray-toned subway tiles can provide extra depth and interest. Layout options like horizontal stacking, herringbone, and varied brick patterns also add visual appeal.
Marble Tile
For a touch of elegance, marble tile backsplashes beautifully complement white kitchen cabinets. The natural grey and white veining within marble adds lovely depth and dimension.
Popular marble options include white Carrara, soft gray, and luxurious Calacatta. Multicolor exotic marble makes a seriously bold statement. But be aware that marble requires more maintenance than ceramic to keep looking pristine.
Glass Tile
Available in a kaleidoscope of colors and finishes, glass tile backsplashes pair wonderfully with white cabinets. The glossy surface catches the light beautifully. Glass tile also creates a seamless, easy-to-clean backsplash.
Types of glass tile range from recycled mixtures to Italian smalti and handcrafted fused glass. Each material provides its own unique look. But be aware that solid sheets of glass often show fingerprints and water spots readily.
Metal Backsplash
For contemporary chic, metal backsplashes like stainless steel, copper, and tin provide an industrial accent. Metallic finishes offer high heat resistance and durability too.
The sleek, smooth surface gives a modern element that allows white cabinets to take the spotlight. But metal can reveal scratches and smudges more readily than other materials.
Design and Installation Considerations
Installing a kitchen backsplash may seem simple, but careful planning is key. Measure precisely between cabinets and counters to calculate how much tile you need. Consider laying out tiles or using design software to visualize the pattern.
Weave colors and textures together in pleasing combinations for a unified finished look. Geometric, floral, or abstract designs provide visual intrigue. To install backsplash tile securely, use modified thinset and finish with grout suitable for the material.
Maintaining and Cleaning Your Backsplash
Regular maintenance keeps any kitchen backsplash looking its best. For ceramic tile, daily wiping plus weekly cleaning with an all-purpose cleaner works well. Marble and natural stone require re-sealing every 1-2 years.
Glass, metal, and other smooth backsplashes benefit from a squeegee to wipe off water droplets after use. Yearly steam cleaning removes grime from tile grout lines. Take care of your backsplash and it will maintain its beauty for years to come.
Tying your whole kitchen together requires thoughtful coordination. Pick up subtler tones from your backsplash in your countertop material. Echo cabinet hardware finishes in your metal backsplash accent.
Position your backsplash 4-6 inches above countertops for best proportions. Extending the height to the bottom of wall cabinets gives a seamless look. With the right backsplash choice, your white kitchen will delight for decades to come.
Identifying the perfect back splash to match your white cabinets can be difficult with an array of colors, materials, and texture. Keep this guide handy as you explore options. Before you know it, your kitchen will be a gorgeous showcase, all tied together by your new stunning backsplash.