When it comes to designing a kitchen, the splashback is often where style meets practicality. But beyond looks, it’s also an opportunity to make a more sustainable choice.
Traditional options like ceramic tiles or plastics may be durable, but they often come with a heavy environmental cost. By switching to eco-friendly splashbacks made from recycled, reclaimed, or natural materials, you can reduce waste, cut carbon emissions, and still enjoy a kitchen that feels unique and stylish.
From glass and stone to creative DIY mosaics, there are plenty of ways to balance design, cost, and sustainability. Here we share some of the best sustainable kitchen splashback materials you can use in your home, with creative ideas you can even make yourself.
Why sustainability matters in kitchen design
Traditional splashback choices, like ceramic or porcelain tiles, come with an eco-friendly tag. The production processes of these products consume a significant amount of energy and rely heavily on mined resources, and they also take longer to decompose in landfills if they’re discarded after use.
Eco-friendly choices in splashbacks can make a big difference to your kitchen. Here’s why:
- Shrink your carbon footprint: Materials like recycled glass or reused ceramics turn trash into treasure. That means less mining, less processing and less environmental impact.
- Healthier breathing indoors: Many traditional finishes and adhesives release nasty volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Eco-materials like glass, clay, or recycled tile are often inert, so your indoor air is cleaner.
- Built to last: Sustainable options are tough. Glass panels resist scratches and stains, plus they last for decades. Recycled and ceramic tiles are similarly hard-wearing, so you have fewer replacements and less waste.
What to think about when choosing splashback materials
Before you fall in love with a splashback purely on how it looks, it’s important to think about what’s going on behind the scenes. An eco-friendly choice needs to tick more than just the style box. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Durability means less waste
No one wants to be ripping out tiles every couple of years because they’ve chipped, cracked or stained beyond rescue. The longer your splashback holds up, the less likely it is to end up in landfill.
Can it be recycled or reused
Go forward to the day when you’re itching for a new look in your kitchen, what happens then? Some splashback materials can be recycled back into the system, while others simply have to go in a skip. Glass, metal, and certain tiles can get a second life, while plastic-based options usually can’t.
Skip the toxic extras
It’s not just about the material itself, but also about what holds it together. Some adhesives, sealants, and finishes can release unwanted chemicals in the air. Look for low-VOC products and non-toxic finishes. They’re better for indoor air quality, kinder on the environment, and won’t leave you wondering what you’re breathing in every time things get steamy in your kitchen.
Keep it local
The shiny imported tile might look amazing, but consider the miles it’s taken to reach your wall. Materials sourced closer to home usually have a smaller carbon footprint because they don’t need to be shipped across continents. Plus, buying local means you’re supporting smaller businesses and regional suppliers.
Best sustainable kitchen splashback materials
Recycled glass slabs or tiles
Slabs or tiles created from waste glass, such as bottles, shards or industrial glass makes a great sustainable kitchen splashback. They’re sometimes mixed with minimal bonding agents, and what’s great is that they're non-porous, so it’s easy to clean, and there’s less chance for mould or grease to hide.
Glass behind hobs will need to be toughened to withstand the heat.
Ceramic or porcelain tiles
Natural clay tiles are a tried and tested favourite, and sustainably sourced can be a green and durable option. Many tile manufacturers now include recycled content in their products, and tiles are hard-wearing, easy to maintain and available in countless colours and finishes.
Opt for locally produced tiles to cut down on carbon footprint.
Stainless steel panels
Sheets of corrosion-resistant steel make for a great sustainable splashback as they’re durable and long-lasting, often contain a large amount of recycled steel and are fully recyclable.
Aluminium composite or solid aluminium
Aluminium splashbacks are lightweight, sleek and contemporary. They're commonly made from a high proportion of recycled aluminium, and when reaching the end of their life, can be recycled once more. Aluminium also doesn't rust or overheat and is a sensible, practical option in heavy-use kitchens.
Natural stone
Materials like slate, granite, or marble may be used as a splashback to create a traditional look. Salvaged or reclaimed stone, if utilised, is an extremely sustainable choice as it reuses what is already present. Stone is durable, easy to clean, though certain types may need to be sealed in order to prevent staining.
Brick slips
Thin brick slices, usually salvaged from demolition, add a rustic and warming splashback. Recycling old bricks reduces waste and minimises the demand for new energy-intensive brick production. Brick slips are robust and can be sealed to make them easier to wipe down.
Paper-based composite panels
Made from compressed layers of recycled paper fibres bound with natural resins, these panels are strong, water-resistant and heat-tolerant. They offer a smooth, modern finish and can be cut to size like timber, making them a versatile and eco-friendly alternative to plastic laminates.
Recycled plastic boards
Splashbacks made from post-consumer plastic, such as yoghurt pots, packaging or old bottle tops, give waste a new lease of life. They often have unique speckled or terrazzo-like patterns, are non-porous, and can be easily wiped clean. Choosing these helps divert plastic from landfills.
Lime-based finishes
Lime plasters and washes can be applied directly to walls to create a seamless, breathable splashback surface. As lime is a natural, low-impact material that absorbs carbon dioxide as it cures, it’s highly sustainable. With the right sealant, lime finishes can resist stains and moisture in the kitchen.
Bamboo or FSC-certified timber
Fast-growing bamboo and responsibly sourced timber give your kitchen warmth and natural texture. When properly sealed, they can work well as splashbacks in areas not directly exposed to heavy splashing or grease. FSC certification will show you that the wood comes from sustainably managed forests.
DIY recyclable kitchen splashback ideas
Wine cork splashback
Collected corks can be cut and arranged into panels to make a tactile and eye-catching splashback. As cork is naturally water-resistant and insulating, it’s well-suited for kitchen use. Seal it with a food-safe varnish to make it easier to wipe down.
Bottle cap mosaic
Bottle tops, whether metal or plastic, can be cleaned, sorted by colour and arranged into a mosaic pattern for a fun, upcycled splashback. Set them into grout or resin for a flat, easy-to-clean surface that’s unique and sustainable.
Pennies/coin splashback
Old or foreign coins can be repurposed into a striking metallic splashback. They can be glued into place and sealed with a clear epoxy for a smooth, durable finish. This gives coins a second life and gives you a textured, shimmering surface.
Clothing buttons
Colourful buttons from old garments or sewing kits can be combined into a playful patchwork design. Like coins, they can be set into grout or resin, making them easier to clean while giving your kitchen a creative, handmade touch.
Sliced wood or wine crate panels
Panels carved from old wine crates or thin pieces of salvaged wood add character and warmth to a kitchen. To cut down on waste, look for wood offcuts or salvaged wood. Once waterproofed, they give you a useful yet rustic splashback.
Shells or sea glass
For a backsplash with a coastal theme, place shells and sea glass fragments in patterns. Using locally sourced materials reduces the transport emissions, too.
Broken ceramic mosaic
Broken or chipped plates, mugs, or tiles can be broken into tiny pieces and put back together to create a vibrant mosaic splashback. This diverts waste from landfill and creates a one-of-a-kind feature in your home.
Vinyl records
Damaged or unplayable vinyl records can be cut and mounted as a glossy, retro-style splashback. Sealing them helps to protect against moisture and makes them wipeable.
Mirror offcuts
Reclaimed mirror pieces can be tiled together to reflect light around the kitchen. Not only are you reusing existing materials, but it can make small kitchens feel brighter and more spacious.
Sustainable splashbacks for your home
Choosing a sustainable splashback gives you the opportunity to reduce waste, cut down on carbon emissions, and create a kitchen that’s healthier for the planet. When you go for a timeless recycled glass or get creative with a DIY cork or bottle cap design, there are plenty of ways to bring personality and eco-values together.
At Rehome, we’re committed to giving quality materials and products a second life. From preloved and ex-display kitchens to bathrooms and furniture, our carefully curated range helps reduce waste and supports a more circular economy.
Browse our collection today and discover how you can build a stylish, eco-friendly kitchen.
