What is better for a bathroom floor ceramic or porcelain tile?

Author: Dr. Amie Lehner MD  |  Last update: Monday, September 1, 2025

Is porcelain or ceramic tile better for a bathroom? Porcelain tile is better for bathroom floors and walls because it's more resistant to water absorption than ceramic tile. It's also more durable and resistant to staining.

Should bathroom floor tiles be ceramic or porcelain?

The two biggest considerations are usually cost and water resistance. Porcelain tile is recommended for bathrooms, including floors, tub and shower surrounds and countertops. Porcelain is recommended for kitchens, but glazed ceramic tile is a budget-friendly option.

What type of tile is best for bathroom floors?

For bathroom floors, porcelain tile is the best choice. Because it is waterproof and simple to maintain. And there's never a shortage of choice when it comes to color, texture, and design.

What is the best material to put on the bathroom floor?

The best flooring options for bathrooms are floors that can withstand moisture and humidity, aren't slippery when wet, are easy to clean, and comfortable underfoot. In terms of withstanding moisture and humidity, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), vinyl roll, and porcelain or ceramic tile are the best bathroom flooring options.

What is the easiest bathroom floor to keep clean?

You're in the right place. Your best bet for a durable, low-maintenance floor is a range of 100% waterproof bathroom flooring options such as waterproof core vinyl, or porcelain and ceramic tile. Water-resistant laminate is also a great option. Waterproof bathroom floors are quick and easy to clean.

Porcelain vs Ceramic Bathroom Tiles: What You Need to Know

Is porcelain tile slippery?

The good news is that porcelain tiles are naturally very grippy and safe to walk on even when wet; however, it's not as simple as that. There are degrees of difference in the quality and production of porcelain tiles, and some might be better for your patio than others.

Can mold grow under porcelain tile?

Yes. Tile flooring is designed to handle water, but it's not completely waterproof. Over time, grout can wither away and cracks can form, creating the perfect entrance for those accidental spills to seep into. Water that gets under your tile can lead to all sorts of problems, including mold growth.

What to avoid on porcelain tiles?

Avoid using ammonia or bleaching agents on the tiles; they damage porcelain tiles and stain grout. Oil-based wax detergents and cleaners damage these floors, too. Cleaners with dyes also stain porcelain tiles; avoid them.

Which is less likely to crack, ceramic or porcelain tile?

What tile is less likely to crack, ceramic or porcelain? Porcelain tiles are less likely to crack due to their higher density and durability. They also withstand heavy foot traffic and impact, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or outdoor use. Ceramic tiles, while durable, should be used indoors.

What is the best flooring for a bathroom in 2024?

As an added bonus, both porcelain and ceramic tile can mimic the look of other classic materials, such as natural stone and hardwood, at a lower price. So, if you're looking for a bathroom floor that is durable, waterproof, and versatile, you can't go wrong with tile. Vinyl shares many of the same qualities as tile.

What bathroom floor tile is easiest to clean?

A tile like porcelain, that does not allow penetration into the body, with a finish that is not overly rough, will be relatively easy to clean.

What is the best color for a bathroom floor?

Neutral colors like white, gray, and beige have dominated bathroom tile design due to their versatility.

Why choose porcelain tiles over ceramic?

Porcelain is crafted from a mix of fine clays and minerals fired at extremely high temperatures, making it harder and denser than ceramic tile. Porcelain resists staining, water, bacteria and odors. It's difficult to scratch, resists fire and comes in a variety of shapes, colors and styles.

What kind of tile is best for bathrooms?

Ceramic, glass, porcelain, and natural stone tile are all great choices for a wet room bathroom.

How to tell between porcelain and ceramic?

You can perform a simple water absorption test by placing a few drops of water on the back of the tile. If the water is absorbed quickly, it's likely ceramic. If it beads up or takes a while to absorb, it's probably porcelain.

Can you use Clorox wipes on porcelain tile?

Although porcelain tiles offer exceptional durability, there are few products and techniques you should avoid at all costs. Never use a product that contains harmful chemicals such as ammonia or bleach (or any type of acid-based cleanser). These type of chemicals can alter the colour of the tiles and/or the grout.

Does vinegar hurt porcelain tile?

Some household members will use vinegar to clean porcelain tiles. However, experts suggest this is not a good idea because vinegar has a high acidic content which can damage the quality of the porcelain.

Can you use Swiffer on porcelain tile?

Swiffer wet cloths are designed to be used on most floor surfaces, such as: vinyl. porcelain tiles. ceramic tiles.

What ruins porcelain tile?

Avoid oil- and wax-based cleaners and never use a solution containing acids, ammonia, or bleach on your glazed porcelain tiles. These products can alter the color of the tile and eat away the grout.

What is the best tile for showers to prevent mold?

Porcelain is strong and stable enough to be made into much larger sizes than ceramic. Large porcelain tiles are perfect for installing on the shower wall because it means there are less grout lines to clean (reduces mildew), which some people REALLY love.

What happens if water gets under porcelain tile?

While tile floors are known for their durability and water-resistant properties, they are not impervious to the effects of moisture. Over time, excessive water exposure can weaken the grout, cause mold and mildew growth, and even result in the lifting or cracking of tiles.

What is the disadvantage of porcelain tiles?

However, porcelain tiles can be somewhat more brittle than standard ceramic tiles, and they have some of the same drawbacks as ceramic tile, including their heavyweight, coldness, and hardness underfoot.

What is the best flooring for a bathroom?

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are both waterproof and easy to clean, but we typically recommend using porcelain tiles for your bathroom flooring.

Is porcelain tile ok for a bathroom floor?

Slip and water resistant, porcelain makes for a safe flooring option for bathrooms and beyond.

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