What is important to know is that white grout will show dirt more, therefore you'll have to spend more time cleaning it. If you're set on white grout, you might consider using Epoxy Grout, which is stain-resistant.
If you're tile is white then go with white grout, but if your tile isn't white and you can't match it exactly, then white will just look awful. It will contrast even more than a darker shade, because white reflects a lot of light. With white you'll also see more staining from water.
For balancing aesthetics and upkeep, you can't go wrong with a neutral grey or beige grout. These lightly pigmented grouts will enhance the pattern of both light and dark colored tiles, have less risk of staining your tile compared to a dark grout and will conceal dirt and stains better than a white grout.
Since white is timeless, using white tile and grout will allow you to be versatile with your decor choices. White will stand the test of time and outlast interior design trends.
Cement tiles are a no-go for the kitchen backsplash (as is limestone, the chief component of cement) because it's just too porous. A cement backsplash will absorb particles from the kitchen and become irreparably dirty much too quickly, making it a bad choice for cleanliness and longevity.
Recent research from Houzz indicates that top materials for kitchen backsplashes in 2024 include porcelain or ceramic; engineered quartz; and marble. Handmade zellige clay tiles are also increasingly popular with designers and homeowners.
Small-format mosaics
'Finishes and lighting are the two biggest giveaways that make a kitchen look dated. Imitation stone, sparkly quartz counters, and small-format mosaic backsplashes don't have the same timeless appeal as natural stone and beautiful handmade tiles,' says Kyle.
What is important to know is that white grout will show dirt more, therefore you'll have to spend more time cleaning it. If you're set on white grout, you might consider using Epoxy Grout, which is stain-resistant.
White grout is more difficult to keep clean than darker colors, like gray or black, because even small stains show more prominently. However, white grout isn't difficult to clean if you stick to a regular maintenance schedule and know what cleaners to use.
The minerals from the hard water can slowly change the grout from white to yellow. Dirt - Believe it or not, but various dirt, debris, minerals, and residues will stain grout if it's not cleaned off right away or cleaned properly off the grout.
Black and White Backsplash Ideas for a Timeless Kitchen. When it comes to creating a kitchen that never goes out of style, a black and white backsplash is a perfect choice. This classic combo works with any decor, bringing a touch of charm and simplicity to your space.
Jim Whitfield, manager of Technical Services at Mapei told industry professionals, “Because epoxy grout is so tough, it wears extremely well. It doesn't wear down over time and become a tile gutter—like cement grout can—where all the dirt and liquid and junk collects.”
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether your backsplash should be lighter or darker than your countertop. Both options have their unique advantages and can transform the look and feel of your kitchen.
Since the gray grout for backsplash tiles can prevent dirty looks, you may want to use it instead of the white grout. You can use it whether your backsplash tiles are dark or light-colored, you can use gray grout for backsplash tiles with gray tiles, too.
Both offer classic design styles, but their finishes significantly impact the overall feel of your space. Matte finishes, with their light-absorbing texture, foster a warm and inviting atmosphere. Glossy tiles, on the other hand, reflect light, making your kitchen appear brighter and more spacious.
Consider using a grout sealer
This user-friendly product dries quickly, remains invisible after application, and offers protection against water and oil-based stains without causing any discoloration on the surface. This product is stocked and recommended by us at Tile Wizards.
Practical Benefits of White Grout
White grout is less prone to staining and discolouration compared to darker grout colours, making it easier to maintain a clean and pristine appearance in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Grout is much more porous and absorbent than tile. So when it isn't sealed properly, or the sealant has been stripped off with harsh cleaners, this means that it can easily stain, absorb water/dirt, and generally get dirty more easily.
You don't have to remove all of your old grout to apply the new grout. The new grout can be applied right over the top of the existing grout. You will need a grout removal tool, which is a small tool with a sharp blade capable of chipping away the grout.
If you don't want to go through all this to keep your grout clean, you can install epoxy grout. Unlike sand grout, epoxy grout is not porous, and dirt cannot be ground into it.
My husband is a tile contractor and let me tell you what he does: get the commercial bleach (from Home Depot), it's thicker, like a gel. Then get some baking soda. Make yourself a little paste and apply to the grout lines. Allow a little time for it to absorb the yuck, scrub off with a stiff grout brush.
It's true—grout needs to be deep cleaned every four to six months to stay looking like new. However, by using a sealant and cleaning up spills quickly, you can keep white grout looking great with less time on your hands and knees scrubbing.
Kitchen backsplash trends in 2025 are all about making a statement with backlit designs that add a touch of luxury. These illuminated surfaces will be a show-stopping trend for the kitchen, making your space feel like a high-end restaurant.
Typically, the backsplash fills an area between lower and upper cabinetry. For the most cohesive look, the general rule is that your backsplash should line up with the bottom part of the upper cabinets. Vertically, this means that there are no backsplash tiles behind the cabinets.