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Budget-Friendly Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

If you haven’t updated your kitchen in a while, it’s time to look at some kitchen backsplash ideas! A backsplash is meant to protect your walls from food, splatter, stains, and water damage. You’ll often find them behind stoves and sinks in the kitchen, and sometimes basins in bathrooms. 

Until quite recently, backsplashes were purely functional items. But these days, they also add to the interior design of your house, so people have started putting more attention into their look. There are plenty of options to consider for adding, replacing, or revamping your kitchen backsplash. 

Here are a few kitchen backsplash ideas that can help you achieve a stylish and unique backsplash without breaking the bank.

Plain wooden counter with a white basin and white tile backsplash behind it. Read this article for more kitchen backsplash ideas.

1. Painted Backsplash

Paint is relatively cheap and easy to use. Remember, you need durable and washable paint for a backsplash! Speak to your local hardware store if you need help choosing the right product for a specific area.

If you’re unsure what paint will work best for this project, you can hire a painter to assist you. They’ll also tell you about any primers or sealers you need to ensure your backsplash is waterproof and easy to clean.

You can even use stencils to make it more interesting! If sealed properly, they will not scratch or fade. When it comes to a painted backsplash, your imagination is the only limit.

Painted backsplashes are increasingly popular in kitchen backsplash ideas. Image of close up of paint on some small brushes.

2. Peel and Stick Wall Tiles or Decals

Peel and stick wall tiles or decals have taken the world by storm because they’re a renter-friendly option. There are loads of available options, ranging from traditional kitchen tile to bold and trendy prints. You will definitely find something to suit the design style you’re looking for. 

The pros of peel-and-stick wall tiles include:

  • Huge variety
  • You can choose a price range that suits your budget
  • Easy to install
  • Long-lasting
  • Water and scratch resistant
  • Transforms a space immediately
  • Can be removed without permanent damage (renter friendly)
  • Can be used on a wall or over existing wall tiles
  • Easy to clean

If you’re looking for something that fits your budget, is easy to install, and looks great, then these peel and stick tiles are right for you. 

Wide shot of kitchen with a wrap-around peel and stick tiling. These are great kitchen backsplash ideas if you're renting.

3. Reclaimed Wood

If you’ve got a rustic or farmhouse-style kitchen, this option is perfect for you. 

Used wooden pallets or boards can be cut to size to create a unique backsplash. Sand down and seal the wood to protect it from moisture. Attach it to the wall with adhesive or nails.  

For alternative takes on this look, consider a herringbone pattern or stack the wood in various lengths, colours, or heights to create something visually interesting. If you already have wooden elements in your kitchen, try to match the colour where possible, create a stronger sense of style and design. 

Collection of small wooden chopping boards and a vase of wooden kitchen utensils. Reclaimed wood is one of the best kitchen backsplash ideas for rustic or farmhouse kitchens.

4. Wallpaper

This might sound risky, but even wallpaper is on the list of kitchen backsplash ideas! By choosing a water-resistant and washable wallpaper with an interesting pattern or texture, you can easily turn your backsplash into an art piece. 

Apply the wallpaper directly to the wall, and use a clear sealant on top to protect it from splashes and stains. This will also make it easier to wash your new backsplash.

You can also make your own wallpaper and cover it with glass for protection. This way, the glass acts as the actual backsplash, but you have a beautiful design underneath it. Use decorative paper, make a photo collage, or print an image you like as a unique backsplash. 

This method also allows you to replace the artwork whenever you want, without much effort.

Collection of polaroid photographs, which you could put behind glass as one of the new kitchen backsplash ideas you can try.

5. Marked Down Tiles

Tiles are one of the go-to kitchen backsplash ideas. But they’re pretty expensive, so keep an eye out for sales or discounts at stores in your area. You can combine different styles, such as penny tiles and subway tiles, to stay within your budget and add a personal touch to your design.

You can install these yourself, or you can even use a tile adhesive mat if you’re not confident with traditional tile mortar. If you get a good deal, you can also hire a tiling home pro to cut the tiles for you and still in your budget.

Birdseye view of piles of small patterned styles in shades of blue, yellow and brown.

6. Stainless Steel

This is one of the more unique and unconventional kitchen backsplash ideas, but it’s great if you’ve got an industrial theme design in your home. It’s easy to maintain and is a cost-effective alternative to tiles.

Fix the pieces directly to the wall with mounting tape, silicone, or adhesive. 

Dark brown kitchen cabinets, black stove top, steel backsplash with a riveted pattern.

Transform Your Home These Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

Remember to properly clean and prep your walls before installing any of these kitchen backsplash ideas. And always follow manufacturer instructions for proper installation and maintenance!

If you’re not feeling confident, you can hire a handyman to install the backsplash for you. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can achieve a beautiful backsplash on a budget.

You’re in good company