White Subway Tile Backsplash for Your Kitchen in 2023

A white subway tile backsplash is an absolute all-time favorite in many kitchens. Inspired by the tiles from the New York City subway, the subway tiles we now use in our kitchens have been popular ever since they were discovered at the very beginning of the 20th century. While some think of white subway tiles as a safe choice, others consider them a reliable option with an ultimately stylish design appeal. Whether you wish to achieve a classic white subway tile kitchen vibe or introduce a fresh sensation and ambiance that will radiate novelty, white subway tiles are the easiest and most logical choice to realize your dream.

Learn how to decorate your New York kitchen with a subway tile backsplash, regardless of the spaciousness or kitchen style. We promise that a white subway tile kitchen is both a timeless and trendy choice sure to beautify your home in a snap. Here are the best subway tile backsplash ideas for you!

White Subway Backsplash Kitchen Designs

Straightforward, rectangular shape, a range of whites, from off-white to pure and wintery white, glazed, with a satin finish, or made of marble, porcelain, or glass, white subway tile is one of the most versatile backsplash options you can choose for your white subway tile kitchen.

But there are more innovative subway tile backsplash ideas for the best white subway tile for the kitchen. You can give your white subway backsplash an edge by adding dark gray or black grout. The effect this combination gives is a fine contrast that works wonderfully in both classic and temporary-style kitchens. If you, however, prefer an all-white backsplash as a statement of discreet beauty and refinement, a canvas that welcomes other design elements, a white subway tile with white or light gray grout will be such a great choice for your white subway tile backsplash kitchen. The best white subway tile for the kitchen will give your home the look and performance it deserves.

Subway tile backsplash ideas: go with white

A subway tile kitchen backsplash is also great if you love open shelving and feel that you need a full-wall backsplash in your white subway backsplash kitchen. Actually, we cannot think of a better choice for this particular situation. If you need a classic subway tile kitchen backsplash between upper and base cabinets, white subway tile is, again, an unfailing and authentic solution.

Far from boring, subway tile kitchen backsplash is a staple design element in any white subway tile backsplash kitchen with the right design solutions well matched.

Continue reading below to find more subway tile backsplash ideas, to find out what kind of white subway tile and what color grout to use with a white subway tile backsplash, and also what color subway tile with white cabinets go best. The awe-inspiring kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile and designs below will show you the most popular but also timeless solutions for incorporating a subway tile kitchen backsplash into any kitchen style.

To save money along the way while updating the backsplash, explore kitchen remodel ideas on a budget and make the most out of your project.

Gray on White: Backsplash With Gray Grout

Kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile often include a very popular combination — gray and white. Choosing the right gray for a white subway backsplash is a struggle for many homeowners who desire this specific solution for their kitchen. It may sound silly, but it is true. Choosing the right shade of gray makes a major, almost night-and-day difference in the final tile job and the overall look of your backsplash.

And there are many options and kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile in gray to choose from. From the lightest of grays, like frost, to moderately light gray, natural gray, and warm grays, to dark grays like taupe gray and silverish with a blue tint, the gray grout options are many among kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile.

Kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile: full-wall white subway tile with gray grout combined with white granite countertops on the perimeter and island, open shelving, and white shaker-style cabinetry

Choosing the right gray makes all the difference between making the backsplash a centerpiece to design and blending it in with the rest of the design and making it a blank canvas. It’s why this is one of the most desirable subway tile backsplashes for the kitchen.

If you desire to achieve a subtle contrast or a less dramatic pop, anything from light gray to medium-dark gray grout will work. Your choice will depend on the strength of the visual punch you desire. This subway tile backsplash for kitchen solution is great for everyone who loves the simplicity of white subway tile but who would also love to get out of a bit of their comfort zone.

Full-wall white subway backsplash with light gray grout combined with white shaker cabinets, open shelving, white quartz countertops on the perimeter and island, and stainless steel appliances in an open-concept kitchen space

But if you crave something more, dark gray grout is a step further from light and medium gray grout. Although it won’t give you the stark contrast that black grout provides, dark gray grout on white subway tile creates a moderate contrast that allows the outline of the tile to be noticeable and pop. You’ll be surprised to learn that even a simple kitchen design can be very impactful and striking, making your kitchen one of a kind. Gray on white is simple, but can create a lovely, subtle and classy effect on the overall kitchen design.

White on White: Backsplash with White Grout

When looking for the best subway tile backsplashes for the kitchen, you’ll see many options available. Subway tiles kitchen backsplash comes in many colors and tones but their color is not the only thing that matters.

If you like the idea of having a blank canvas for a kitchen with subway tile backsplash, that is also a style statement in all of its subtlety, white subway tile with matching white grout is the simplest and the most effective subway tiles kitchen backsplash solution. This combination is the perfect starting point for creating a light and bright space you, your family, and your guests will absolutely love! Nothing is more popular lately than this lovely combination!

Seamless white subway tile white grout with gray shaker style cabinetry and stainless steel appliances

White subway tile with white grout creates timeless rooms and gives them a marvelous feel of lightness and versatility. With a subway tiles kitchen backsplash like this, you will be free to change and mix other elements because this kind of subway tiles kitchen backsplash can carry out almost any design and style.

Kitchen with subway tile backsplash: white grout, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops on perimeter and island, and white cabinetry

White subway backsplash and white grout is a combination that allows you to take upon a transitional design with white quartz countertops and gray shaker cabinetry or a more traditional style that includes earthy granite countertops and hardwood floors. Quartz or granite kitchen with subway tile backsplash makes for a timeless and most beautiful combination ever. There are no limits to your imagination and desires.

Our Arctic Ice white glass subway tile mosaic can fit perfectly into your vision of a kitchen with subway tile backsplash.

Beveled White Subway Backsplash

Although the classic subway look of a tile is great in itself, just as it is, some variations like the white beveled subway tile kitchen backsplash add more depth, dimension, and even more style. It’s white, it’s square, but it’s still so different from the version we’re used to seeing everywhere. It’s amazing what a small change to a tile can do!

Subway tile backsplash ideas: White beveled subway backsplash with pure white shaker kitchen cabinets, gold hardware, and white quartz countertops

Beveled style is one of the subway tile backsplash ideas that add something a little extra, an additional punch of refinement to an already beautiful tile. Whether it is a pure white beveled subway tile combined with white cabinetry, matte white paired with wood cabinetry, or shiny white with dark cabinetry, a white beveled subway tile kitchen backsplash is always one of the best subway tile backsplash ideas. White beveled subway tiles come in many colors, from neutrals to bright solid whites, and we’re so happy we get to choose the perfect one among these many options.

White beveled subway backsplash with classic wood kitchen cabinets, beautiful granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances

A white beveled subway tile kitchen backsplash will add texture and depth to your kitchen walls, and you can use any grout color you desire. The grout color won’t affect the look of the tile, it will only create more or less contrast and affect the overall look the backsplash creates in the kitchen.

White beveled subway tile backsplash with dark wood shaker kitchen cabinets, marble-looking quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances

Choosing the right finish for a white beveled subway tile backsplash is an enjoyment, too. From matte options for an understated look to glossy and shiny finishes that reflect light, there are many ways to give your white subway backsplash a more intriguing look. So, it’s just a matter of preference.

Tell us what you enjoy more — matte or glossy white beveled subway tile look?

Farmhouse kitchen ideas often incorporate beveled white subway tiles mosaic backsplash as an important element of the overall design. The look and feel of the tile add to the homey and cozy farmhouse vibe.

Black on White: White Tile With Black Grout

The combination of white subway tile backsplash with black grout is one of the most exciting subway tile backsplash ideas. It is one of the kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile that proves that a kitchen backsplash doesn’t have to be boring, ever. The stark contrast of the pure whiteness of a subway tile and pitch-black grout allows a powerful pop as a design statement in any kitchen.

For an additional punch, use a beveled tile to add dimension and create a movement that you can almost see and feel. How about that for more exciting kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile?!

Kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile: white subway backsplash with black grout, long white subway tile black grout with wood kitchen cabinets and stainless steel appliances

But black grout is not only great for the visual effects it creates but also for its benefits regarding maintenance. Black grout looks amazing and helps hide stains and splashes. Just imagine, no more stressing about the sauce making a mess of your white grout — black grout and white tile are easily cleaned and will look perfect in no time!

Kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile: white subway tile kitchen with black grout, white cabinetry, and yellow granite countertops

Black grout with white subway tile is one of the most innovative kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile that can add a modern feel to an otherwise traditional-style kitchen and introduce a restaurant-like feel. If you love a restaurant-like feel or enjoy modern vibes, you’ll enjoy this solution.

The backsplash is important, but other elements in the kitchen are important as well. After all, you want your kitchen to look and perform its best! White tile with black grout backsplash will create a significant impact. In combination with the right cabinets and a striking custom kitchen island, this kind of backsplash will be a staple and root of your kitchen design.

Glazed White Subway Tile Designs

If you desire a more shiny look on your white subway backsplash, opting for a glazed variety of white subway tiles is one of the most attractive kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile to adopt. The glazed option is the best white subway tile for the kitchen if you love the look and feel.

Best white subway tile for the kitchen: glazed white subway backsplash with gray grout and subtly retro look, combined with classic off-white cabinets, stainless steel country sink, and stainless steel appliances

They look amazing with any cabinetry color, but we like them, especially with all kinds of whites. And as you can see, this is one of the best white subway tiles for a kitchen as it adds such a special feel to a traditional kitchen. A dark grout will add depth and match the overall style of the kitchen.

Best white subway tile for the kitchen: glazed white subway tile with white shaker cabinetry and stainless steel appliances with a view to the backyard

White subway backsplash with white grout will provide a seamless look with a subtle shine to complement the transitional white kitchen look. The best white subway tile for a kitchen of transitional or classic style is the glazed option.

The right combination of backsplash and cabinets will do wonders for your kitchen, and you. If cabinets are modern and breathtaking, even better! Modern kitchen cabinet ideas will encourage your backsplash ideas, and help create a unique, bold design for your kitchen.

White Subway Backsplash Herringbone Style

If you love a good classic with an interesting twist, then the white subway herringbone backsplash style is just right for you. Whether the rest of the kitchen is understated or features some interesting and pop-worthy elements, subway tiles laid out in a herringbone pattern add a focal point and add another dimension to the space.

Best white subway tile for the kitchen: white marble subway backsplash in a herringbone pattern with light gray shaker cabinets, white quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances

Marble subway tile laid out in a herringbone pattern adds more color and subtle pop to a matching gray and white kitchen interior.

White subway tile kitchen: white subway herringbone backsplash with traditional white cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances

Long, slim, and narrow white subway tile laid out this way is such a perfect partner to the white cabinetry and countertops that pop.

Subway tile backsplash ideas: herringbone pattern white subway backsplash with white classic cabinets and dark granite countertops

Did it ever occur to you that you can lay your white subway tile in a herringbone pattern but horizontally? The movement creates such a special feel, doesn’t it? For example, Arabescato Carrara white subway tile in herringbone pattern honed in a mesh is all lined up in a classic herringbone style and looks amazing when installed in all kitchens.

White Marble Subway Backsplash

Marble is a luxurious stone that instantly elevates a kitchen and is one of the most obvious subway tile backsplash ideas. When shaped like a subway tile, it consists of two major style staples — a historical and highly versatile shape, and timeless pattern and quality. What more do you need for a timeless look? Marble will elevate your kitchen with ease but it’s even better when it comes in such a modern shape like subway tiles. Classic and timeless with modern and progressive — is there anything more you could look for in a kitchen?

Subway tile backsplash ideas: white marble subway tile with white shaker cabinets and marble-looking quartz countertops

A soft white background with cool gray veining allows the stunning contemporary elements of a kitchen to stand out. This is a classic color combo that is a safe choice for anyone who enjoys relaxed and welcoming but still highly refined kitchen interiors.

If you opt for the larger size of the marble subway tile, you get a more modern look that perfectly elevates traditional elements to the transitional design. This is also a great solution for small kitchens as larger tile sizes visually expand space and make your kitchen feel larger and more spacious, instantly.

Kitchen backsplash ideas with subway tile: full-wall marble white subway tile with white classic cabinets, stainless steel country style sink, and stainless steel appliances

Subway marble tiles usually come in a polished finish and multiple color varieties, such as Calacatta Gold, Tundra Gray, Arabescatto Carrara, or Crema Cappuccino.

Check out our Calacatta Gold 3×6 Polished Italian Marble subway tiles and Greecian White 3×6 polished and beveled marble subway tiles that feature whites and grays and are available in 12×12 mesh-backed tiles in a polished finish. We’re sure you’ll find some amazing options for your new kitchen.

White Subway Tile Backsplash FAQ

• Is white subway tile dated?

White subway tile will never go out of style and will never feel or look dated. How can we say and claim that with such certainty? It’s easy! White subway tile is a staple of modern kitchens and presents a modern classic that easily fits in any kitchen style and goes perfectly with any kitchen cabinets colors. Just as you can install it in all-white kitchens for a bright, fresh, open, and breezy look, you can also use this tile to create impactful contrasts with marine blue and black kitchen cabinets. Adding black or dark gray grout will create a powerful, contrasting look.

• Does white subway tile get dirty?

Yes, white subway tile can get dirty, especially after busy days in a kitchen and lots of cooking. However, it is very easy to keep these tiles clean. Everyday light wiping with a damp cloth is more than enough on days when you cook and there is lots of activity in the kitchen. Once a week, you can wipe down your white subway kitchen tile with a solution of warm water and dish soap. When it comes to stains, rest assured that white subway tile is stain resistant. On top of that, if your subway tile is glazed, that brings you another level of release as glaze is non-absorbent.

• Is white subway tile modern?

White subway tile is modern. To be more precise, white subway tile is a modern classic that is traditionally and widely used in American homes and kitchens. Its versatility, neutrality, brightness, and simplicity of lines are the reasons why it is so often picked as a favorite type of backsplash in a variety of kitchen styles. With all of its features and benefits this tile brings, white subway tile is a perfect addition to traditional or classic, transitional, and modern or contemporary kitchens. Its adaptability to a variety of kitchen colors and various decor elements makes it such a perfect backsplash solution for all kitchens.

• What is the best size for white subway tile?

The best size for white subway tile is its traditional 3 x 6 inches size. At the same time, this is also the most popular and the most often picked size for a backsplash made of subway tile. On the other hand, you can make any tile of a rectangular shape and 1-to-2 dimensions work just as subway tile would work. Other, also used subway tile sizes, are 2 x 4, 4 x 8, and 6 x 12.

• Is subway tile in style 2023?

Subway tile is in style 2023 just as it was for a century now in American homes and kitchens. In fact, subway tile becomes more and more popular as a backsplash in European kitchens, as well. They are very popular in combination with white shaker cabinets. However, while the traditional, horizontal look of subway tile was enough and most often used for years back, more and more homeowners find the vertical pattern and orientation of subway tiles interesting. This just shows and proves why white subway tile is a true modern classic.

• What goes well with white subway tile?

White subway tile backsplash goes well with a wide variety of kitchen cabinet colors, different types of floors, and all kitchen cabinet styles. For the most impactful effect, pairing the backsplash consisting of white subway tile laid in a herringbone, traditional horizontal, or modern vertical pattern with black cabinets will give the best results. Black cabinets instantly raise the elegant and sophisticated, elevated feel of a kitchen, while white subway tile breaks up the darkness, makes the kitchen setting lighter, and introduces a contrast. This contrast elevated the kitchen design to a whole other level of refinement.

• Is white subway tile hard to keep clean?

White subway tile is very easy to keep clean, even though its whiteness could point you to a different conclusion. Subway tile of any color doesn’t harbor any bacteria as its surface is completely inhospitable to them. To keep your white subway tile perfectly clean, use a mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap cloth or a mild cleanser. With a soft cotton cloth drained in this solution, simply wipe down your white subway tile. If the grout between tiles is white, make sure to keep it clean with recommended commercial grout cleaners. This is everything you need to do and know about keeping your kitchen’s white subway tile clean.

Pick Your Perfect White Subway Backsplash at Home Art Tile Kitchen & Bath

A white subway backsplash can be not only a staple in your kitchen design, a style statement but also a true piece of art in your home. Incredibly versatile, coming in many shades of white, with many finishing options, and made of many different materials, white subway tiles give a kitchen the look, style, and feel you’ve always wanted. From modern farmhouse and French chic to spotless, minimalist contemporary, white subway backsplash makes an impossible not only possible but realistic. And we’re so happy we can help you achieve this!

Subway tile kitchen backsplash: rustic marble white subway tile with traditional white cabinets, dazzling white granite, and hardwood floors

Home Art Tile Kitchen & Bath is your destination when you’re looking to remodel your white subway tile backsplash kitchen and choose from the best white subway backsplash designs. If you’re at the very beginning of your kitchen remodeling process and wonder what is the best grout color for white subway tile or what is the best size subway tile for a kitchen backsplash, our designer will be happy to help you out and answer all your questions.

Take a look at our tile and mosaics selections, get inspired by our porcelain tile and ceramic tile collections, and start planning a thorough remodel or just an inexpensive kitchen update with a carefully chosen backsplash from our tile showroom. Feel free to stop by 35-10 43rd Street Long Island City, New York 11101, anytime 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Monday through Saturday, and browse to find the best white subway tile for the kitchen.

If you need more, we are happy to provide it! Contact us for a design appointment and let us help you get the white subway backsplash kitchen you need.