Subway tiles vs. hexagon tiles in the bathroom—what’s your pick?

If it’s for the floor, I’ll admit hex tiles do look stunning, but they’re not exactly forgiving if your subfloor isn’t perfectly level. I’ve had clients fall in love with the look, then regret the upkeep. For walls, subway tiles are classic and you get that nice rhythm with the staggered joints—plus, way easier on the knees. Are you after a more vintage vibe, or something crisp and modern? That can totally sway which tile feels right.

That can totally sway which tile feels right.

I get what you mean about hex tiles being tricky if the floor’s not level, but honestly, I found subway tiles on the floor kind of underwhelming. They just didn’t add much character for me. I know they’re easier to install, but I’m willing to put in the extra prep for hex if it means the space feels unique. The upkeep’s a pain, yeah, but I’d rather deal with that than have a floor that looks like every other bathroom.

- Had the same debate in my last flip.
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“I’d rather deal with that than have a floor that looks like every other bathroom.”

Subway Tiles Vs. Hexagon Tiles In The Bathroom—What’s Your Pick?

I hear you on the grout lines with hex tiles—those little guys look great but can be a pain to keep clean, especially in high-traffic spots. I’ve had clients fall in love with hex for powder rooms or guest baths, but they usually regret it a bit once they realize how much scrubbing is involved. Still, there’s something about the pattern that really opens up a small space. I think it’s the way the lines draw your eye around, kind of distracts from the actual square footage.

Subway tiles are classic for a reason, but yeah, they can feel a bit “safe.” I like mixing it up by stacking them vertically or using a darker grout for some contrast. Using subway on the walls and hex on the floor is a combo I’ve done a few times—gives you that unique vibe without going overboard on maintenance.

Funny enough, I’ve noticed matte hex tiles hide water spots better than glossy ones, but the grout still needs love. If you’re set on hex, maybe go for a mid-tone grout so it doesn’t show every little thing. Just my two cents...

Mixing subway on the walls and hex on the floor really does give the best of both worlds. I totally get what you mean about hex tiles “opening up” a small space—there’s just something about that pattern. The grout is a pain, though, no denying it.

“matte hex tiles hide water spots better than glossy ones, but the grout still needs love.”