When it comes to bathroom design, aesthetics often take center stage, but there's one factor that should never be overlooked: safety. With wet floors and soap residue, bathrooms can be surprisingly hazardous. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four older adults experiences a fall each year, with bathrooms being a particularly high-risk area. It's a sobering statistic, but one that's easily mitigated by making the right choice when it comes to bathroom tiles.

At Edward Martin, we understand the importance of both style and safety. In this guide, we’ll explore the best bathroom tiles for preventing slips and falls, ensuring that your bathroom is both beautiful and safe.

 

 

Understanding Slip and Fall Hazards in Bathrooms

The bathroom might be the smallest room in the house, but it’s certainly one of the most dangerous. Knowing the common causes of bathroom slips and falls is important in selecting the right tiles and designing a safer space.

 

Wet Surfaces

It’s no surprise that wet floors are one of the most significant risk factors in the bathroom. The constant exposure to water from showers, bathtubs, sinks, and toilets creates the perfect environment for slipping. Water easily spreads across tiles and other bathroom surfaces, making the entire area a potential hazard.

However, water isn’t just the problem; it’s the residual water that stays behind after you step out of the shower or bath. As it evaporates, it can leave surfaces slick, making a once-safe tile floor dangerously slippery. This is why a tile’s water absorption rate is key to minimizing risks—low-porosity tiles tend to be more water-resistant and help mitigate the slipperiness that comes with wetness.

 

Soap Scum and Residues

Anyone who has cleaned their bathroom tiles knows that soap scum, mineral deposits, and general grime can quickly accumulate on surfaces, reducing traction. These residues build up over time from soap, shampoo, body wash, and even hard water. When combined with moisture, soap scum creates a film on the surface of tiles that can be as slippery as an ice rink. The more textured the tile surface, the more likely it is to resist the buildup of soap scum, which is why choosing tiles with some form of texture or coating is essential for safety.

 

Uneven Surfaces and Changes in Elevation

Uneven surfaces can also contribute to slips and falls in the bathroom. Cracked or damaged tiles, misaligned grout lines, and even minor height differences between floor sections (such as from the bathroom floor to the shower base) can trip up even the most cautious person. It’s important that changes in elevation are clearly marked and, where possible, designed to avoid creating raised edges. Installing appropriately sized transition strips or using tile designs that minimize abrupt height changes can help avoid these risks.

 

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Anti-Slip Tiles

As slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of injury in bathrooms, understanding the key factors that contribute to anti-slip properties will help you choose the right tile to keep your space both stylish and safe.

 

Coefficient of Friction (COF)

Coefficient of Friction is a measurement that indicates the amount of traction or grip a tile surface provides when in contact with another surface—such as your foot. In simple terms, it’s a number that tells you how slippery or grippy a tile will be under various conditions.

The higher the COF value, the less likely a tile is to cause a slip when it gets wet. Generally, a COF of 0.60 or higher is considered suitable for bathroom floors, especially in wet areas like showers. For areas with minimal exposure to water, such as a bathroom countertop, a lower COF (around 0.50) may suffice.

However, always keep in mind that the ideal COF can depend on the specific needs of your bathroom—for instance, busy areas or bathrooms used by young children or elderly individuals will require higher COF values for better safety. The COF is tested using a standard device, often referred to as the tribometer, which measures the resistance between a foot-like device and the tile’s surface.

 

Tile Texture

The surface of the tile is important in how much friction it creates when you walk on it, particularly when wet. There are various textures to consider, each with its own advantages and drawbacks when it comes to slip resistance and aesthetics.

 

Grooved vs. Matte Tiles

Grooved tiles feature channels or lines that create friction when you walk. These are ideal for areas with standing water, as the grooves help channel water away, reducing the risk of slipping. However, grooved tiles can sometimes be harder to clean, as dirt and water can accumulate in the grooves.

Matte tiles have a subtle, non-reflective surface that is less likely to become slippery compared to glossy tiles. While they lack the visual shine of other finishes, matte tiles offer a practical solution for preventing slips and are also easier to maintain than some other textured options.

For instance, Edward Martin's Leona 12x12 Checkerboard Matte Porcelain Tile in Marfil and Amani Bronze (refer to the photo above) offers both beauty and safety. Its matte finish enhances traction, making it a great option for bathroom floors and other wet areas. The checkerboard design adds a touch of elegance, while the matte surface ensures a slip-resistant walk even in moisture-prone areas.

 

Smooth vs. Textured Tiles

While smooth tiles are aesthetically pleasing, they tend to become slippery when wet. Glossy finishes, in particular, can look sleek and modern but can cause a dangerous slip when exposed to water. The smoothness reduces the friction between your foot and the tile, increasing the risk of slipping.

Textured tiles, on the other hand, are specifically designed to enhance grip. These can come in various forms, including tiles with raised patterns or rough surfaces that offer better traction. For wet areas like the bathroom, textured tiles are a safer option, as they significantly reduce the likelihood of slipping.

 

Tile Material

The type of material used for your bathroom tiles is essential in the slip-resistance of the finished surface. Some materials naturally offer more grip and resistance to slipping, while others require additional treatment to perform adequately.

To help you remove the guesswork, Edward Martin's Augmented Reality (AR) Visualization Tool allows you to see how different materials look and perform in your bathroom environment before purchase. This lets you virtually place various tile options into your room, giving you a realistic view of their aesthetics and functionality—helping you choose the perfect material for safety and style.

 

Porcelain

One standout material you’ll often encounter in your search is porcelain—known for its durability, water resistance, and wide range of finishes. When treated with a textured surface or specific slip-resistant coatings, porcelain tiles can offer excellent traction, especially in wet areas. Porcelain also has a low porosity, meaning it doesn’t absorb water, making it resistant to slipping in showers or around bathtubs.

 

Ceramic

Ceramic tiles are another popular option, but they are generally more affordable than porcelain. While they can be designed with textured finishes for slip resistance, their water resistance depends on the glaze and finish applied. Glossy ceramic tiles, while beautiful, can be slippery when wet, so choosing matte or textured ceramic tiles is important for bathroom safety. However, it's important to note that ceramic tiles are best suited for moderate-use areas, as they are primarily designed for wall applications rather than busy or constantly wet flooring surfaces.

 

Mosaic

Mosaic tiles can be an excellent option for adding slip resistance to your bathroom floor. Due to the small size of the tiles and the grout lines between them, mosaics inherently provide more traction. Their small surface area makes it harder to slip on them, even when wet. Moreover, mosaics offer great design versatility, making them a favorite for homeowners looking to create unique, stylish patterns.

 

 

Best Tile Options for Wet Areas

Whether it's a shower, bathtub surround, or even a poolside deck, understanding the best tile options for wet areas ensures that your design combines functionality with style. Here, we dive into tile choices for wet areas, examining their slip resistance, finishes, and features.

 

Mosaic

Mosaic tiles are often a great choice for wet areas, thanks to their small size, versatility, and ability to provide enhanced traction due to their intricate design. While natural stone mosaics have long been the traditional choice for wet areas, porcelain mosaics are now favored due to their durability, water resistance, and ability to mimic the appearance of marble, stone, and concrete.

 

Octagon

Classic and timeless, octagonal mosaics often feature small square inserts between the octagons, creating a geometric, structured appearance. The combination of contrasting grout lines and multiple edges enhances slip resistance, making this a great option for bathroom floors and shower spaces.

 

Hexagon

Hexagon tiles, also known as honeycomb tiles, are a staple in contemporary design. Their six-sided shape offers excellent coverage with minimal grout waste, and when used in mosaic form, they provide outstanding slip resistance. The tight grout lines between each tile create added friction, helping prevent slips in wet environments.

For a stylish yet functional option, referencing the photo above, Edward Martin's Quinn 12x12 Matte Porcelain 1x1 Hexagon Mosaic Tile in Black & White Flower, is an excellent choice. The small, floral pattern of the mosaic pieces creates a textured surface that provides great traction, while the matte finish further improves slip resistance. Ideal also for wet areas like tub surrounds, and flooring, this tile not only adds an elegant, contemporary touch to the bathroom but also enhances safety by reducing the risk of slips.

 

Pinwheel

Pinwheel mosaics consist of small square tiles strategically placed around square tiles, forming a subtle yet dynamic pattern. This design creates visual movement in the space while also providing functional benefits. The varied grout spacing within the pattern improves slip resistance, making it an excellent choice for showers and wet floors. Pinwheel patterns often work well in transitional and eclectic bathroom designs, adding a touch of intricate detailing without overwhelming the space.

 

Penny Round

One of the best choices for wet areas, penny round mosaic tiles are small circular tiles that resemble old-fashioned pennies. Their curved shape and dense grout lines create a high-friction surface, making them ideal for shower floors and bathroom flooring. Unlike square or angular mosaics, penny rounds offer a softer, organic feel, making them a great option for spa-like bathrooms and minimalist designs.

 

Basket Weave

Basket weave mosaics create a woven illusion using rectangular tiles arranged in a crisscross pattern. This intricate layout provides a textured, three-dimensional surface, which improves grip underfoot. The pattern also has a timeless, luxurious appeal, making it a common choice in traditional and high-end bathroom designs.

 

Ceramic and Porcelain

When it comes to wet areas, ceramic and porcelain bathroom tiles reign supreme due to their water resistance, ease of maintenance, and ability to provide high levels of slip resistance when selected correctly. Both materials are derived from clay but differ in terms of composition and firing processes, with porcelain bathroom tiles being denser and more impervious to moisture than ceramic bathroom tiles. However, keep in mind that ceramic tiles can still be a great option for moderate-moisture areas, such as bathroom walls and those with less direct water exposure, as long as they feature a textured or matte finish to enhance grip.

 

 

Anti-Slip Solutions for Specific Bathroom Areas

In a bathroom, certain areas are more prone to slipping hazards than others, making the selection of anti-slip solutions even more critical. Choosing the right materials, finishes, and accessories ensures that your bathroom is not only beautiful and functional but also safe for everyone who uses it.

 

Shower Floors

In addition to choosing the right tile, there are anti-slip mats and inserts that can be used for added safety in the shower. These mats are made from materials like rubber or textured vinyl and can be placed directly on the shower floor to provide extra grip. Anti-slip inserts or strips can be applied to existing tiles to enhance traction, especially in areas where the tiles might be too smooth for comfort.

 

Bathroom Floors

While tiles provide the foundational slip resistance for bathroom floors, adding area rugs in busy zones—like in front of the sink or vanity—can enhance both comfort and safety. When selecting a bathroom rug, opt for those with non-slip backings to ensure they stay securely in place. Rugs with rubber or silicone backing are ideal, as they prevent the rug from sliding, even when wet.

 

 

Maintenance Tips for Maintaining Tile Slip Resistance

Tiles are a durable, low-maintenance option for bathrooms and other wet areas, but to ensure that they remain safe and functional, especially when it comes to slip resistance, regular care is essential.

 

Regular Cleaning

Soap scum is a common culprit for making bathroom tiles slippery, especially on smooth or glazed surfaces. Use a non-abrasive bathroom cleaner designed to break down soap scum. You can also use a white vinegar solution (mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part water) to help dissolve the buildup without damaging your tiles. Always wipe down the tiles after cleaning to ensure they’re dry and free from excess moisture.

Grime and dirt can also make tiles slick. Regularly mop your floors with a gentle floor cleaner and warm water to ensure dirt is removed, but be cautious not to leave excess water standing on the floor. For shower floors, using a soft-bristled brush to scrub the tiles, especially in textured or grout lines, can remove built-up debris.

While these maintenance tips will keep your tiles looking great and functioning safely, it’s always best to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific tile type. Some tiles may have special care instructions, finishes, or sealants that require particular attention.

 

Step Into Safety With Your Bathroom Tiles

So, what tiles are not slippery in bathrooms? The answer lies in matte porcelain mosaic tiles or any tile with a matte or textured finish. These provide the ideal balance of traction, durability, and style, making them perfect for shower floors, bathroom floors, and bathtub surrounds. With a high Coefficient of Friction (COF) and a surface designed to reduce slippage, these tiles ensure your bathroom is both safe and functional.

If you’re feeling uncertain about which tile style or material is best for your space, Edward Martin's design consultation service can help. From one-on-one advice via email to mood boards and full room visualizations, our team of designers is here to help you make confident decisions about your tile choices. Browse through a range of premium, non-slip tiles with Edward Martin and create a bathroom that’s both safe and beautiful. Your feet—and your family—will thank you!