Glossy Tiles or Matte Tiles: Which One is Better for Bathrooms
If you were looking to buy bathroom tiles online and got confused between glossy finish and matte finish, do not worry, we've got you. Gloss and matte are two of the most popular finishes when it comes to bathroom tiles. Both of them have their own unique advantages. So, which one should you choose?
In this blog, we are going to explain the key difference between them so you can make an informed decision.
How Glossy Tiles Get Their Shine?
After the base tile is made and dried, it's coated with a special glass-based glaze. This glaze is a mixture of silica, frits, fluxes, and minerals that melt and form a smooth, glassy layer when heated.
The glazed tiles are fired in a roller kiln at temperatures of about 1100–1200°C. During firing, the glass components in the glaze melt completely and form a smooth, vitrified surface. As the tile cools, this melted layer solidifies into a mirror-like, reflective finish.
How Matte Tiles Get Their Soft Texture?
Matte tiles also get glazed like glossy tiles, but the glaze is made of crystalline minerals or matting agents such as zirconium oxide, alumina, or magnesium silicate. The glazed tiles are then fired in a kiln at around 1100–1200°C. Crystallisation occurs during controlled cooling, which gives the surface a fine, soft microtexture that scatters light.
Difference Between Glossy and Matte Tiles
- Matte tiles have a more refined design and aesthetic, whereas gloss tiles are polished and reflect light.
- Matte tiles are non-slippery, while glossy tiles are very smooth and slippery.
- Gloss tiles produce a warm and pleasant vibe as they reflect light off their surface, unlike matte tiles.
- Gloss tiles are also considerably easier to maintain than matte tiles, requiring just a simple wipe down to make them spotless.
- Scratches are more visible on glossy tiles, while matte tiles hide such minor imperfections due to their non-reflective surface.
Conclusion
To conclude, for the floor and wet areas like the shower, you should use matte finish tiles as they are non-slippery. For dry zones like the walls, you can install tiles with a glossy finish, which will also help your space feel larger and brighter by reflecting light.
If you prefer a rustic or natural look, you can install matte finish tiles in your bathroom and complement them with good lighting. Looking for something different? Mix them up by installing matte tiles on the lower walls and glossy tiles on the upper section.

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