We have a glass tile backsplash; a mix of glossy and matte strips. We don't find it difficult to clean or keep looking good. I rarely need to wipe the splash, except for over the range. I usually use a microfiber or paper towel and whatever spray I happen to be using at the time (alcohol-water mixture, Perfect Kitchen or Perfect Glass...). It takes more work to clean the tile (and white grout) just above the back vent/trim on our gas range, which it likely would with any light-colored tile. When I roast a chicken for example, using high heat and convection fan, I usually need to clean the splash over the range (I'm guessing vented cooking grease and/or high heat causes the discoloration we see). I've used Oxyclean, STT's HD-Clean, Dawn Power Dissolver, and even BKF, without harming the tile (no scratches). Of course, you might want to test any cleaning products on sample or leftover tile if you're unsure if it will cause any damage. I personally think it's very low-maintenance and love the look!

rufinorox, have you considered how the dimensions of the tile would work with 2 vs 3 rows? will you have to have a row at the top of just a sliver of subways with one configuration and not the other? It might not be very visible from a distance especially with matching grout, but up close it might seem jarring. BTW - you are doing an amazing job with your kitchen. You must be so proud being able to say it is DIY!

mycatz-- We bought a wet saw. I just taught myself how. I have already done 3000 sq. ft of hardwoods and plenty of finish work on this house so figured I can do tile as well. Its a long story but we have an absentee builder and a bank who says we must finish, even though they chose our builder. I have learned a great many things from doing all this and feel I could tackle just about anything. Oh and yes you may have to put in extensions,we had to anyway as we have extensive beadboard and need extensions for that as well. Here is some of what I have been working on. Cabs will be white, haven't decided if I am going with lt grey or white grout yet.

Yes, subway tiles have been done so much…why? because they are a default. Large, small, white, stainless, glass, the subway tile will continue into the next century, along with the hex and black dot. The ultimate “little black dress” for a bath or kitchen. (Boston knows its subway tile.) Fish scale…great, as well. Kind of beachy or maybe a nod to art deco. Watch out though for the color of the grout you use. It is more noticeable with fish scale than with subway.