The 18 Best Backsplash Alternatives for Your Kitchen

While it’s true that tile is the most common backsplash material—it’s not your only option. There are plenty of beautiful and affordable backsplash alternatives that will not only protect your walls from those pesky cooking spills but will also add a skosh of style to your space.

1. Paint

Using washable paint instead of a traditional backsplash material can help if you’re wondering how to save money on your kitchen remodel. Considering the cost of a kitchen backsplash averages about $1,000, using paint as the backsplash should save you quite a bit of cash. You also can change the color whenever you want. Some people choose chalkboard paint, so they can write recipes, shopping lists, or inspirational messages for their families. If you go this route, be sure to use washable and stain-resistant paint.

Best for: Those who want to change the backsplash color frequently, while saving money.

2. Wallpaper

Although wallpaper could suffer discoloration with splattered food, the bold patterns and colors in a wallpaper backsplash can transform your kitchen like few other materials. The almost unlimited number of patterns allows you to let your personal style show through. You may need to cover it with glass or varnish, though, to fully protect it.

Best for: Those who want to make a bold statement in an eclectic kitchen design.

3. Granite or Quartz Slabs

If you’re redoing your countertops, you may want to use the same material for your backsplash. By using the slab instead of tile, you don’t have to worry about grout lines. Natural stone backsplashes are extremely durable and create a seamless look in the kitchen. However, this isn’t a DIY backsplash job. You’re better off hiring a local backsplash installer to secure the slab to the wall.

Best for: Those who want to match the look of the countertops in the backsplash.

4. Copper or Stainless Steel Sheet

Adding a sheet of metal is one of the most interesting backsplash alternatives you can select. Both copper and stainless steel add warmth to the kitchen design. These materials can be pricey to add over a large space, but few other backsplash materials are quite as distinctive. The metal may show water marks, but it is durable and easy to wipe down after a spill.

Best for: Those who want to facilitate a commercial design in the kitchen.

5. Wood Planks

Using wood planks as your backsplash delivers a rustic look that few other materials can match. The natural wood grain and variety of stain color options let you customize the design to match your exact tastes. You can even use pre-cut flooring planks or painted shiplap, if desired, to simplify installation. Layout variations and patterns are possible, too. Herringbone patterns can deliver a unique look, for example. 

However, wood isn't very protective because of its vulnerability to water damage. It requires a protective coating of paint, lacquer, polyurethane, or similar products to help it do its job.

Best for: Those who want to create a rustic, natural look.

6. Exposed Brick

Nothing quite matches the vintage feel of using exposed brick inside your home, whether in an accent wall or a chimney. You can carry this same feel into the kitchen by using exposed brick as a backsplash alternative to tile. You can buy faux brick tiles to simplify delivering the desired look in the kitchen, although you can also hire a mason to cut real bricks in half and install them as veneer.

Best for: Those who want to emphasize a vintage design or mimic an accent brick wall elsewhere in the home.

7. Glass

Add a splash of elegance to your modern kitchen design by installing a glass backsplash. You can add lighting at the edges for an accent. Some people choose mirrored glass to make a small kitchen feel larger. If the kitchen wall is an exterior wall, consider installing window glass in the backsplash location to add natural lighting or to give you a clear look at your backyard while cooking.

Best for: Those who want to enhance a modern kitchen design.

8. Mosaics

If you don’t mind the work and time required, you can create a unique backsplash alternative by using chunks of glass, stones, or tile to create a tile mosaic. Use glue to stick the pieces to the existing wall in a random pattern, mixing shapes and colors. Then use grout to fill in the spaces between the pieces and seal everything. This is a DIY-friendly option that comes at an affordable price point.

Best for: Those who want to show off their individual creativity.

9. Concrete or Plaster Layer

Although using concrete instead of granite countertops is a choice you may have considered, you may not have thought about adding a concrete layer as your backsplash. Adding concrete or plaster in the location of the backsplash delivers an industrial feel while using a highly durable material. Because of its neutral colors, it allows other items to stand out in the kitchen design.

Best for: Those who prefer an industrial look in the kitchen.

10. Copper Penny Tile

Create a unique, textured backsplash with round copper-colored tiles that resemble pennies—or use real pennies themselves. The tiles can be made of glass, ceramic, porcelain, or metal, offering durability and longevity. You’ll need time and plenty of grout to install this backsplash alternative, but the charm and visual interest will enhance the whole feel of your kitchen. 

Best for: An accent wall in a kitchen, small spaces, or unique aesthetics. 

11. Chalkboard

Cover your backsplash with specialized chalkboard paint to give you and your family the opportunity to write special messages—from motivational quotes to dinner plans. You can also create beautiful chalk art or put the kids to the task for a fun activity. A chalkboard paint backsplash is perfect for an artist’s home.

Best for: Family homes, artists, and casual environments.

12. Peel-and-Stick Tile

If you’re looking for easy DIY alternatives to a tile backsplash, consider peel-and-stick options. You can find peel-and-stick tiles made of plastic, vinyl, glass, or metal with an adhesive backing. Colors, styles, and patterns are endless and give you a chance to create a space you want at a fraction of the price of real tile. 

Best for: DIYers, budget-friendly homeowners, those looking for a kitchen refresh without a huge expense.

13. Wall Decals

Wall decals are vinyl stickers that you can add to your backsplash for added color and design. They’re easy to adhere and remove, giving you options to switch them out over time. From florals to geometric designs, you can find wall decals to complement any kitchen style. They’re also inexpensive, making them one of the most affordable backsplash ideas around. 

Best for: DIYers, temporary designs, those looking for a kitchen refresh without a huge expense.

14. Stone Veneer

If you love the look and feel of stone but want a more cost-friendly option, consider a stone veneer backsplash. Stone veneer is a thin, decorative stone panel made of thinly sliced stone or manufactured stone. This backsplash alternative offers the appearance of natural stone without the weight (or price tag). Coming in a range of colors and patterns, stone veneer gives your kitchen depth, texture, and a sophisticated look. 

Best for: Those who want the elegant look of stone without the price tag.

15. Beadboard 

Beadboard is a type of paneling featuring vertical grooves or bumps that add texture to a wall without overcomplicating it. The panels are easy to install and give dimension to a room. Beadboard panels can be painted in different colors or left in a simple natural wood or white finish. They’re great for farmhouse, traditional, and cottage-style homes.

Best for: Country-style homes, farmhouses, cottages, and warm aesthetics.

16. Wall Stencil

From vintage patterns to modern geometrics, create a vivid backsplash by stenciling the wall. Use the stencil to create a custom design on your backsplash for a personalized look. You’ll need a detailed eye and a careful hand, along with ample spare time. However, the results can be stunning when done right. 

Best for: Artistic homeowners, custom looks, and DIYers.

17. Laminate

Laminate isn’t just great for floors—it’s a durable option for a kitchen backsplash, too. Find laminate wall panels that resemble wood, stone, or tile. Thanks to their moisture resistance and  ease of installation, laminate makes an appealing alternative to tile backsplash. 

Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners and DIYers. 

18. Subway Tile

Unlike traditional tile, subway tile is rectangular tile made of porcelain or glazed ceramic. It's incredibly durable and adds a chic look to your kitchen backsplash. You can lay them in a vertical or an alternating pattern, depending on your style. Subway tiles come in a range of colors and bring a luxurious aesthetic to your kitchen.

Best for: Those who want a long-lasting, timeless solution.