When it comes to your bathroom, flooring is a big deal. It has to look great, handle moisture, and be easy to clean. Bathrooms are high-traffic, high-moisture areas, so choosing the right flooring can save you a lot of headaches down the road. But with so many options out there, which one is right for you? In this blog, we discuss some of the best bathroom flooring choices available, breaking down what works, what doesn’t, and why.
Luxury vinyl flooring: durable and stylish
Luxury vinyl flooring (LVT or LVP) is one of the top contenders for bathroom floors. Why? It’s waterproof, affordable, and comes in a massive variety of designs. You can get the look of hardwood, tile, or even stone, all without breaking the bank.
What makes luxury vinyl a go-to choice is its durability. Bathrooms deal with spills, humidity, and constant foot traffic. Luxury vinyl doesn’t just survive in this environment; it thrives. It resists water and won’t warp or buckle like real wood might. Plus, the soft underfoot feel is a bonus—no more stepping onto icy tiles first thing in the morning.
And the best part? It’s DIY-friendly. If you’re handy, you can install luxury vinyl planks or tiles yourself and save a little extra cash.
Laminate flooring: budget-friendly but limited
Laminate is another solid bathroom flooring option, especially if you’re working within a tight budget. Laminate mimics the look of hardwood or tile, so you get a high-end style without the high-end price tag.
However, traditional laminate has a weakness: water. It’s water-resistant, not waterproof. If water seeps into the seams, it can cause the material to swell or warp. Fortunately, you can now find waterproof laminate flooring options.
If you’re set on laminate, consider using waterproof variants designed for bathrooms. Pair that with proper sealing and a few bathroom rugs, and you’ll be good to go. Just remember, laminate needs a little extra care to stay in top shape.
Tile flooring: classic and timeless
If we’re talking about bathroom flooring classics, tile reigns supreme. Ceramic or porcelain tiles are the gold standard in bathroom design. They’re waterproof, easy to clean, and available in every size, color, and pattern imaginable.
Tiles let you customize your bathroom in ways other materials simply can’t. Want a sleek, modern look with large tiles? Go for it. Do you prefer a vintage vibe with penny tiles or intricate mosaics? The sky’s the limit.
Beyond aesthetics, tile is also incredibly durable. It stands up to heavy traffic and doesn’t mind a little (or a lot) of water. The downside? Tile can be cold and slippery. To combat this, you can add radiant heating underneath or opt for textured tiles that provide extra grip.
One thing to keep in mind is installation. Tile installation is not a weekend DIY project unless you’re experienced. Professional installation will give you the best results but will also add to the overall cost.
Natural stone flooring: luxury at a price
Nothing says “luxury” quite like natural stone. Marble, granite, slate, and travertine add a rich, earthy elegance to any bathroom. Each piece of stone is unique, offering one-of-a-kind patterns and textures.
Natural stone is highly durable, but it does require regular maintenance. You’ll need to seal it periodically to protect it from water damage and stains. Without sealing, stone can become slippery and even absorb moisture, which is a no-go in a bathroom setting.
While stone flooring looks and feels incredible, it’s one of the pricier options on the list. If you’re aiming for a spa-like bathroom and are willing to put in the upkeep, natural stone is worth every penny.
Sheet vinyl flooring: seamless and practical
Sheet vinyl is the unsung hero of bathroom flooring. It’s been around forever, but don’t underestimate it. Modern sheet vinyl has come a long way, offering updated designs that mimic tile, wood, or stone with surprising realism.
What makes sheet vinyl a smart choice is its seamless nature. With a single piece of vinyl covering your entire bathroom floor, there are no gaps for water to seep through. It’s 100% waterproof and super easy to clean—just wipe and go.
On top of that, sheet vinyl is soft underfoot and budget-friendly. It’s a great choice for families with kids or anyone who wants low-maintenance bathroom flooring that gets the job done.
Cork flooring: eco-friendly and cozy
Are you looking for something eco-friendly and a little different? Cork flooring might be the answer. It’s naturally water-resistant and has a soft, cushiony feel underfoot. Plus, cork is warm to the touch, making it a great option for those chilly mornings.
Cork is also antimicrobial, which is a huge perk in a bathroom where mold and mildew can become an issue. And let’s not forget its eco-friendly credentials—cork is harvested sustainably, so it’s a win for the planet.
However, cork does require some care. While it’s water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof. Sealing your cork floor will help protect it from excess moisture. Over time, you may need to reapply the sealant to keep it in top condition.
Comparing your bathroom flooring options
Choosing the right bathroom flooring really comes down to your priorities. Are you looking for something affordable? Waterproof? Stylish? Durable? Here’s a quick rundown to help you decide on your bathroom floors:
- Luxury vinyl: Best all-around option for style, durability, and price.
- Laminate: Great for budgets and now offers waterproof options.
- Tile: Perfect for durability and timeless aesthetics, but cold and hard underfoot.
- Natural stone: Luxurious and durable but requires regular maintenance and a larger budget.
- Sheet vinyl: Waterproof, seamless, and practical, especially for families.
- Cork: Warm, eco-friendly, and cozy, but needs regular sealing.
Ready to upgrade your bathroom floors?
Whether you’re leaning toward luxury vinyl, tile, or something else entirely, finding the perfect bathroom flooring doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take a look at your options, weigh the pros and cons, and get started on transforming your space today.
Looking for professional advice or installation help? Call or stop by JP Flooring today. We're proud to offer a wide selection of high-quality bathroom flooring options. Don’t wait—your dream bathroom is just a step away!
