Mandy PhillipsIf you are wondering if your bathroom vanity needs a backsplash, you are not alone. Many homeowners ask the same question when designing their bathrooms.
A bathroom vanity backsplash is what you would find behind the vanity countertop, and it can be made with materials ranging from stone to glass to tiles.
Most people believe a backsplash is just for aesthetic reasons, but there are many practical and functional reasons to get one.
In this guide, we’ll share the benefits of having a backsplash for a bathroom vanity and why you might want to invest in one.
Bathroom Vanity Without a Backsplash
Without a backsplash, your bathroom vanity may look plain and unexciting.
Surely, you can add color and designs to your vanity with paint or wallpaper, but it won’t do much to elevate the decor.
Additionally, a bathroom vanity without a backsplash can have serious long-term consequences.
From toothbrushing, handwashing, to face washing, your wall will get splattered with water, again and again, resulting in:
Warp and Rot
If you splash water onto your wall constantly with no protection from a backsplash, your wall will start to collect moisture.
You can wipe the wall after every use, but that wouldn’t be enough.
Constant water contact over time and your wall will start getting warped and rotted, and you won’t realize it until it’s too late.
In the worst-case scenario, you would need to replace your wall, which would be a considerable expense.
Mold and Mildew
Moisture leaking onto your wall allows mold and mildew to thrive, especially if you have drywall.
Mold can grow behind your walls and spread to other parts of your house undetected.
Additionally, mold and mildew can pose a health risk to everyone in the home.
A backsplash can protect your walls from damage, mold, and mildew growth.
5 Reasons Why a Bathroom Vanity Backsplash is a Must-Have
You need a backsplash for your bathroom vanity for aesthetic and practical reasons.
In terms of aesthetics, getting a backsplash increases the value of your bathroom vanity.
- It can be a great focal point, giving your bathroom vanity a new look.
A backsplash can serve as a great visual solution to an otherwise plain and ordinary-looking bathroom vanity.
It’s a great way to add an unexpected twist or fun into your bathroom space.
- It can make your bathroom space look bigger.
Depending on the backsplash material you use, you can create an illusion that could make a small bathroom look larger.
For instance, applying large format tiles as your vanity backsplash can give your small bathroom more volume.
Mirror backsplashes also provide an illusion that you have a more spacious bathroom.
- It’s a great way to add a personal aesthetic touch to your bathroom vanity.
You can get creative with a backsplash, using different styles, colors, and textures.
It’s a wonderful chance to add your creative flair to your bathroom vanity to fit your style and preference.
So adding a backsplash is a great way to update your vanity.
Still, besides its aesthetic design aspects, there are other reasons why a backsplash is a necessity for your bathroom vanity.
- It makes cleaning easy.
An advantage of a backsplash is that it will make cleaning easy. All you need is a rag or sponge to wipe it down.
- It’s the perfect wall protection.
Bare bathroom walls, including the wall behind your vanity, have a high risk of water damage.
In this case, a backsplash makes perfect wall protection to prevent warped or rotted drywall and mold and mildew growth.
How to Choose a Backsplash for Your Bathroom Vanity
Having a backsplash for your bathroom vanity is clearly a good idea. Think of it as an artwork with a more practical purpose.
Now it’s time to pick the style and design that fits your bathroom space and your preferences.
What Is the Ideal Bathroom Vanity Backsplash Height?
The standard height for a bathroom sink backsplash is 3-4 inches from the countertop. You could also consider a higher backsplash if you have a faucet with a higher spout.
Some homeowners consider a higher backsplash, around 8 inches, for a custom look.
You can also find a backsplash that extends up to the ceiling, which can add a rich elegance to your bathroom space.
There are also floor-to-ceiling backsplashes that give your vanity a spa-like appeal.
However, if you’re only choosing a backsplash height for its practical purpose, the ideal backsplash height is the same as your bathroom faucet.
9 Bathroom Vanity Backsplash Ideas & Materials You Can Use
Now that you know that bathroom vanity backsplashes have both aesthetic and practical purposes, enough reasons why they should be on your design to-do list.
But if you’re on the fence about how to choose the best bathroom vanity backsplash, here are some of the best ideas and materials you can consider.
1. Granite
Granite is one of the most used materials in bathroom vanities.
It looks beautiful and is available in different color schemes. Also, you won’t have any problem cleaning granite backsplash.
2. Marble
Marble tends to be expensive, but if you’re going for grandiose, a marble backsplash can do that.
A matching backsplash can give a healthy dose of elegance to your bathroom spa if you have a marble vanity countertop.
3. Glass Tiles
Glass has a stunning shimmery effect that makes a wonderful sparkling accent to any bathroom vanity.
It has a good combination of a natural look and pizzaz to provide a dazzling aesthetic.
4. Ceramic
If you want a beautiful and relatively inexpensive backsplash for your bathroom vanity, ceramic is a fantastic option.
5. Metallic Tile
Metallic tiles are quickly becoming the trend for luxury bathrooms.
You can find great options if it’s to your style, like iron, stainless steel, titanium, and copper.
They would look gorgeous as your bathroom vanity backsplash, although it may require sealing to preserve their finish.
6. Mirror
Most likely, you already have a mirror above your bathroom vanity.
How about you exchange that with a larger mirror that runs from the countertop to the ceiling?
Now that would be a practical backsplash that serves a double purpose.
7. Wainscot
This material is common in living rooms and libraries, but it’s also a great way to liven up and protect your bathroom wall.
It has enough decorative aspects to upgrade your bathroom vanity.
Tip: use the moisture-resistant version or a wainscot made from ceramic or PVC plastic to provide your vanity with both stately style and wall protection.
8. Tempered Glass or Window
If you have a great view behind the bathroom, a window can make a good vanity backsplash.
You can also use a glass brick or tempered glass for this.
9. Waterproof Wallpaper
If you choose the ideal wallpaper, a waterproof version, it can be a fancy but cheap material to perform as your vanity backsplash.
Conclusion
The purpose of a backsplash goes beyond aesthetics since it protects your bathroom walls from damage, mold, and mildew.
With that in mind, there are several ways to turn your functional backsplash into a show-stopping art piece for your bathroom vanity.
