When we were nearing the end of our extension work, my thoughts quickly moved on to the next rooms I wanted to improve: the family bathroom and our en-suite.
One idea that kept catching my eye was a coloured acrylic splashback for the walk-in shower. I loved the thought of using a rich green panel to bring some colour into the room without covering every wall in patterned tiles.
Plastic bathroom splashbacks can look sleek and modern, and they may be a practical alternative to glass or tiles. However, there are a few things worth considering before choosing one.
What is a plastic bathroom splashback?
A plastic splashback is a smooth wall panel, usually made from acrylic or another waterproof plastic. The panels are available in many colours, finishes and sizes, and some suppliers can cut them to fit a particular space.
Although splashbacks are often associated with kitchens, suitable panels can also be used around bathroom basins, baths and showers. It is important to check the product description carefully because different materials have different heat, moisture and installation requirements.
Why coloured splashbacks appealed to me
I like bathrooms that feel calm and practical, but I do not want the room to look cold or clinical. A coloured splashback offers an easy way to create a focal point while keeping the rest of the bathroom fairly neutral.
Green was at the top of my wish list because it can feel fresh and relaxing. Deep blue, soft sage, warm neutrals and even brighter colours could work beautifully, depending on the light and the style of the room.
A glossy finish can also reflect light, which may help a smaller bathroom feel brighter. A matt or satin panel can give a softer appearance if high gloss is not your style.
Benefits of plastic splashbacks in a bathroom
There are several reasons why acrylic and plastic wall panels are worth considering:
Easy to clean: the smooth surface has very few joins, so there are fewer grout lines to scrub.
Lots of colour choices: panels are available in bold, neutral, patterned and metallic finishes.
Lightweight: plastic is generally lighter than glass and can be easier to handle during installation.
Shatter resistant: acrylic does not break in the same way as glass, which may make it a reassuring choice for a busy family bathroom.
A neat finish: large panels can create a clean, streamlined look around a shower, bath or basin.
Potentially quicker to fit: depending on the room and panel, installation may involve less work than fitting and grouting individual tiles.
Things to consider before buying
Plastic splashbacks are not all the same, so I would not choose one based on colour alone. The panel needs to be suitable for the exact area where it will be fitted, especially inside or close to a shower.
Check whether the manufacturer approves it for wet areas, how it should be sealed and whether it can be fitted over an existing surface. The wall normally needs to be flat, clean and properly prepared.
Acrylic can also scratch if it is cleaned with an abrasive sponge or a harsh product. A soft cloth and the cleaner recommended by the manufacturer should help protect the finish.
The edges, joints and openings around taps or shower fittings must be sealed correctly. Water getting behind a panel could damage the wall, even when the front surface is waterproof.
Plastic splashbacks compared with tiles
Tiles are a familiar bathroom choice and can last for years when fitted well. They also offer almost endless design options. The drawback for me is the grout, which can take more effort to keep looking clean.
A splashback panel creates a smoother surface with fewer joins. This can make everyday cleaning simpler, which is always useful in a family home. On the other hand, a damaged panel may be less straightforward to repair than replacing one tile.
The best choice will depend on your budget, the condition of the walls, the amount of water the area receives and the look you want to create.
Can you install a plastic splashback yourself?
Some panels are designed for confident DIY installation and may be fixed with a suitable adhesive or screws. Accurate measuring and cutting are essential, particularly around pipes, sockets and fittings.
If the walls are uneven, the shower area needs waterproofing, or you are unsure about the sealing, a professional may be the safer option. I shared more thoughts on this in DIY or use a professional: when to choose which.
Planning our bathroom renovation
Our bathroom was only one part of a much bigger list of jobs after the extension. Renovating a home has taught me that one finished room often makes you notice everything you would like to change in the next one!
I still love the idea of a green splashback in a walk-in shower. It would add personality without making the room feel too busy, and the smooth surface should be easier to maintain than lots of grout lines.
As with our home renovation plans for replacing our old boiler, the practical details and the budget have to come before the exciting finishing touches.
Are plastic coloured splashbacks worth considering?
For the right bathroom, I think they are. They can add colour, create a modern finish and make cleaning a little easier. The key is choosing a good-quality panel that is approved for the intended area and making sure it is fitted and sealed correctly.
If I eventually choose one for our bathroom, green will still be high on my list. It feels fresh, calming and a little different from the usual white or grey bathroom wall.