It can often be overwhelming, when considering a new back splash for your kitchen. There is such a wide variety of styles, colors, textures and materials available, that making a decision could be difficult.

Aside from the aesthetics, one of the most important factors to keep in mind when choosing your back splash, is how easy it is to keep clean. Is the material porous and will easily absorb grease splatter or spaghetti sauce stains?

Many stone and brick back splashes will become quickly discolored. Other options that can be wiped without any permanent staining tend to work better in areas near the stove.

Below is a list of some of easy to clean back splashes that are not only stylish, but functional as well:

1. Stainless Steel Back Splash

A stainless steel back splash will add a touch of class to any kitchen and can be easily cleaned to keep it looking brand new. This type of back splash is available in large panels, as well as various sized tiles, ranging from large to small.

Patterned stainless steel is also available, which can create a beautiful texture in your kitchen.

Wipe away any water droplets or other splatters immediately to prevent spotting.

2. Glass Back Splash

Large glass sheets used as a back splash are very simple to clean. There are no grout lines to absorb stains. This material can be cleaned with a general window cleaner in minutes.

You can find glass back splash sheets in a wide variety of colors to suit any style.

3. Stone Back Splash

Large, glossy finish stone slabs are an extraordinary way to add a back splash behind your stove and counter tops.

You can find Quartz, Granite, Marble and other stones that will compliment your kitchen and make it a breeze to wipe clean.

4. Laminate Back Splash

If you are on a budget, you may want to consider a laminate back splash. This type of back splash is more cost effective, yet is available in many colors and styles.

You will be pleasantly surprised to find that there are numerous types of laminate on the market, some of which look identical to genuine stone back splashes, which are much more costly.

5. Ceramic Tile Back Splash

Ceramic tile is often used as a back splash because it is very slick and can be easily wiped clean. When using this tile, be sure to seal the grout to prevent any staining. Larger sheets will also decrease the amount of grout that is visible.

6. Tin Back Splash

A tin back splash will give your kitchen a vintage and classic feeling. This type of back splash is available in large sheets or smaller square tiles, depending on the look you desire.

A little more effort is needed when cleaning these tiles, but with regular wiping after cooking meals, you should have no problem keeping your tin back splash looking shiny and beautiful.

Conclusion

Now that you are informed about the various types of back splashes, you can feel more confident about the options that are available to make the right choice for your needs.

Of course, no matter which type of back splash you choose, routine cleaning will keep it looking newer for a longer period of time.

Consult with a professional kitchen designer, who can assist you in the best option for your home. They will take your flooring, cabinetry and counter tops into consideration, to ensure that all elements coordinate and create the kitchen of your dreams.

For further reading, check out: Kitchen Remodeling – Maximize On Your Return and How To Design A Kitchen For An L Shaped Area.

Image: Flickr