They do make real wood beadboard in the thinner dimension. We used that (painted) in our 3/4 bath. It does not get a lot of use, but we haven't had any problems. The T&G gives it enough "give" to handle whatever movement the humidity causes. I routed the edge of the baseboard to create a space for the beadboard to fit and made it line up with the door casing.

We had the big sheet "cardboardy" paneling in a bath in our old house. It didn't disintegrate, but the seams certainly became more noticeable over time.

Thanks for your response! I will have to try to track that down. I want an easy install but don't want anything that will end up looking cheap.

There are PVC beadboard sheets also available which would be good for a bathroom. Azek is one manufacturer, but I don't know the price.

Here is a link that might be useful: Azek Beadboard

I am using a vinyl beadboard that I bought at Home Depot, it's made by Veranda and comes in the same type of pack that the mdf ones come in, with the optional baseboard and trim that is also pvc and routed out to accept the panels. I haven't put any of it up yet though so I can't show pictures or vouch for it.

Thanks for the tip - it never occurred to me that such a product would exist. I'm trying to keep to natural-ish materials (although tub and shower surround is some kind of plastic) but if it doesn't scream "synthetic" then it might be a good choice. I don't want anything with much of a sheen or an obvious plastic look, but there are some very good vinyl products out there now. I'll have to see if I can get a look at it somewhere. (Basically I'm the person who, if I had my way, would have a claw foot tub, hex tiles, a vanity made from an antique dresser, etc..)

I'm with you on the natural materials - except in the bathroom! If possible, an all plastic/ceramic room that could be cleaned with a fire hose would suit me fine!

do you have any photos of it?

Solid surface makes excellent beadboard.