[Kitchen]

Is it necessary to use a backsplash, and if so what are the options other than ceramic tile and the stainless backsplashes from IKEA?

[anna]

Aside from the little 2" stainless lip on the back of my countertop, I don't have a backsplash. I used Benjamin Moore washable flat paint on my walls, and everything wipes off easily with no damage to the paint. It's a little more expensive than regular paint, but worth it. I might add a clear matte varnish of some sort to the area above the sink and stove at some point if it looks like I need it, but so far so good.

As far as options go, the possibilities are ENDLESS. Check out this board here on the forum...it's full of all kinds of backsplash ideas!
http://www.ikeafans.com/forums/forum6/

[Lisa]

I have a glass backsplash to either side of my sink, but not directly behind the sink. Like Anna, I splurged for Ben Moore washable paint and since November, I've been using the kitchen with no ill effect to the paint.

[kelly]

I've seen some very nice kitchens without backsplashes, but my impulse is that they have advantages- even if you are willing to repaint the wall, which is admittedly a minor inconvenience, I believe another issue is containing water and debris. Reading stories of tear outs, and being able to write some of my own, you know its "what lies beneath" that makes a huge impact on the sanitary conditions of your food prep area.

Water can exploit any crack or crevice, leading to mold and rotting particle board, wall board etc. Food debris which falls between the cabinet and the wall ends up near baseboards will attract mice, rats and bugs- all of which are unsanitary and many of which are destructive.

At minimum I would ensure a very tight fit between cabinet and wall (not easy in an old house, but you have to love shims) and caulk the remaining space between the cabinet and the wall, just like the kitchen sink and bath areas.

Wow! I didn't know I felt so strongly about backsplashes! Thow some water on me! Just as long as it doesn't get between the cabinets and the wall...have I mentioned what that can do???