Are you thinking about remodeling your kitchen backsplash? The most important factor to consider when doing this is how much work you are willing to put into keeping the surface clean. This can be dependent on how often you cook as well as how inclined and motivated you are towards kitchen maintenance. The surface is called a backsplash for a reason. Between the proximity to boiling pots, running water and frequent dramatic temperature changes, the wall behind your stovetop and sink can become caked with layers of food before you know it. Here are a few options to help you decide which kind of backsplash is right for your kitchen:

Tile

Among the most aesthetically pleasing of all backsplash options, ceramic tile can be as simple or complex as you want it to be. By using larger tiles you can reduce the amount of exposed grout there will be to clean. For smaller tiles, mosaic patterns add a beautiful touch and you can always pair them with dark colored grout if you want to mask the dirt and grime. There is something to be said for laying tiles yourself. This can be a really fun project for the artistically inclined. However you can also buy mosaic tiles in pre-arranged sheets. This way, all you have to do is fill in the grout and you end up with a mosaic design that looks like it took months to lay.

Stone

From tumbled gemstones to flat marble to textured bricks, stone is a versatile option for any kitchen backsplash. Whether you are going for a flat, glossy, or textured surface, it can be done with some kind of natural stone. Flat marble is simple and easy to clean, while also displaying an organic flair. Brick finishes are very popular for a more rustic look. If you are going for something really unique, try laying a variety of tumbled stones in mosaic patterns.

Wood

Hardwood is a popular material for a variety of kitchen surfaces. This includes floors, cabinets, and countertops along with furniture and other accents. When trying to decide if wood is the best option to use for your backsplash, it helps to consider the presence of other wooden surfaces in the room. If your entire kitchen is surfaced with other types of finishes, having a hardwood backsplash can add a stunning accent. If there is wood elsewhere in your kitchen, be sure to match the type, color and stain when selecting materials for your backsplash. The best way to ensure consistency when you are dealing with hardwood is to get everything surfaced at the same time, and all the materials from the same source.

Glass

Stained glass, tumbled glass, glass tiles, glass bricks…the options are endless when it comes to choosing what kind of glass to use for household surfaces. This is probably the shiniest and most dynamic of surfacing options, so I would highly recommend glass if you are going for something flashy and unique. Glass tiles come in all shapes and sizes. Among the most impressive is what can be done with circular glass tiles. Aside from that, you can break the glass yourself and make your own mosaic. Some glass tiles also come in prearranged sheets of mosaic design like ceramic tiles.

Flat, non-porous surfaces are the easiest to keep clean, so these are best for people who cook regularly but don’t want to make it a full time job. If you have the energy to stay vigilant about rigorous cleaning sessions with bleach or peroxide treatments after cooking, you can have the best of both worlds.

Author Bio: Jennifer Parker is the writers and manages her own home improvement blog renovations, interior design, and home décor. She also writes for Floor and Decor and her work can be found on various interior design and remodeling blogs around the web.