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Choosing the right flooring for a bathroom is a critical decision that needs to balance style, safety, and long-term performance. Unlike other rooms in the home, a bathroom is a high-moisture environment, prone to splashes, spills, and high humidity, which makes the floor's properties more important than its look alone.
Here at The Bathroom Showroom, we emphasise the importance of considering three key aspects: patterns, durability, and functionality when selecting bathroom flooring. Helping you compare bathroom flooring options, we also show you how to match them to your specific needs, budget, and style preferences to make an informed decision and choose the perfect flooring for your bathroom.

Popular Types of Bathroom Flooring

Selecting the right bathroom flooring is a crucial decision, as it must withstand a wet, humid environment while also being safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. The most popular materials offer a wide range of options to fit every budget and style. Here's a breakdown of the most common types.
1. Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most popular choice for bathroom flooring, and for good reason. They're essentially a form of durable, fired clay. When it comes to ceramic vs porcelain tiles, here are a few things to consider:
  • Pros:
Waterproof: When properly installed and sealed, both are virtually impervious to water, making them ideal for areas with splashes and spills.
Durability: Both types are incredibly hard-wearing and resistant to scratches, dents, and stains. Porcelain is denser than ceramic, making it even more durable and less porous.
Versatility: The design options are endless, with a massive range of colours, sizes, and patterns. Many tiles can even convincingly mimic the look of natural wood or stone.
Easy to Clean: The non-porous surface makes both easy to wipe clean and resistant to mold and mildew.
  • Cons:
Cold Underfoot: Tiles can be very cold, especially in cooler climates. This can be mitigated by installing radiant floor heating.
Hard: The hard surface can be unforgiving if you drop something, and it's not the most comfortable for long periods of standing.
Slippery: Glazed or polished tiles can be very slippery when wet. Look for tiles with a matte or textured finish, or choose smaller tiles with more grout lines to increase slip resistance.
Grout Maintenance: Grout lines can be a challenge to keep clean and may need to be sealed periodically to prevent staining.
2. Natural Stone (e.g., Marble, Granite, Limestone)
Natural stone bathroom floors promote a luxurious, high-end look that is unique to each piece.
  • Pros:
High-End Aesthetic: Nothing compares to the timeless beauty and elegance of natural stone. It adds significant resale value to a home.
Durability: Stone is an incredibly durable material that can last a lifetime with proper care.
Unique: Each stone tile has a unique pattern and veining, ensuring your floor is one of a kind.
  • Cons:
Cost: Natural stone is one of the most expensive flooring options, both in materials and installation.
Porous: Many natural stones, such as marble and limestone, are porous and must be properly sealed to prevent water damage and staining. They also require periodic resealing.
Slippery and Cold: Like ceramic and porcelain, natural stone can be slippery when wet and cold underfoot. Textured finishes can help with slip resistance.
Heavy: The weight of natural stone requires a robust subfloor, which can add to installation costs.
3. Wood and Laminate
Historically, wood and laminate have been poor choices for bathrooms due to their susceptibility to water damage. However, some newer, specialised products are changing, creating improved waterproof bathroom flooring.
  • Solid Hardwood: Not recommended for bathrooms. It expands and contracts with moisture, leading to warping and rot. It's a high-risk material for a high-moisture environment.
  • Engineered Wood: While more stable than solid wood, it still has a wood core that can be damaged by standing water. It's not a truly waterproof solution and is generally not recommended for bathrooms.
  • Laminate: Standard laminate flooring is generally not recommended for bathrooms, as water may penetrate seams and cause swelling or delamination. However, newer 'waterproof' or 'water-resistant' laminates are designed for wet areas. Always select a product rated for bathroom use and promptly clean up spills.
4. Luxury Vinyl and Tile (LVT)
Luxury vinyl bathroom flooring has become a top contender for these spaces, bridging the gap between durability, aesthetics, and cost.
  • Pros:
Waterproof: Modern LVT is typically 100% waterproof, making it an excellent choice for any bathroom.
Aesthetics: LVT is made to mimic the look of natural materials like wood, stone, and tile with remarkable realism and texture.
Comfort: It's much softer and warmer underfoot than tile or stone.
Durability: The wear layer on LVT is highly resistant to scratches and dents, making it a great option for high-traffic bathrooms.
Installation: Many LVT products have a click-and-lock system, making them a great option for DIY projects.
  • Cons:
Vulnerability to Heavy Objects: While resistant to general wear, heavy objects can still dent or puncture the surface.
Can Lack Authenticity: While LVT can look very realistic, it's still an imitation of a natural material.
5. Other Budget Options (Vinyl Sheet)
For a truly budget-friendly and functional option, vinyl sheet flooring is still a reliable choice.
  • Pros:
Cost-Effective: Vinyl sheet is one of the most affordable flooring options available.
Waterproof: Because it's a single sheet, it can be installed with no seams, which makes it completely waterproof and prevents water from seeping through to the subfloor.
Easy to Clean: The smooth surface is a breeze to clean and maintain.
Soft: It's soft and cushioned underfoot, making it comfortable to walk on.
  • Cons:
Lower Durability: Compared to LVT, sheet vinyl is more susceptible to tearing, scratching, and punctures.
Looks Less Realistic: The designs are often less textured and realistic than LVT or tile, and can look "plastic."
Difficult to Repair: If a portion of the sheet is damaged, it can be difficult to repair and may require replacing the entire floor.

Bathroom Flooring Inspiration Using Colours and Patterns

Bathroom flooring serves as a foundation for design, and thoughtful choices can transform a functional area into a stylish retreat. Alongside durability and water resistance, the colour, pattern, and style of your chosen flooring will shape the mood of the room and unify design elements.
Trending Patterns
Flooring patterns are having a moment, moving beyond the simple grid of tiles to create dynamic visual interest.
  • Checkerboard: A timeless classic, the checkerboard pattern is seeing a modern revival. While the traditional black and white is a bold statement, you can soften the look by using different colors, like a deep navy and gray, or earthy beige and cream. The size of the squares can also change the feel. Smaller squares create a more intricate mosaic, while large squares feel more contemporary.
  • Herringbone and Chevron: These zigzag patterns add a sense of movement and depth to a space. They're particularly effective with wood-look materials (like wood-effect porcelain or LVT) and can help a smaller bathroom feel longer and more spacious by drawing the eye along the pattern.
  • Geometric Shapes: Hexagons, octagons, and other geometric patterns are a great way to introduce a modern, graphic element. You can use a single colour for a minimalist look or mix and match different shades for a playful and bold floor.
  • Patterned Tiles: From vintage-inspired floral motifs to Moroccan-style tiles and bold geometric designs, patterned tiles are a fantastic way to add personality. They can be used to create a focal point, especially in a small bathroom, where a bold floor can be the main design statement.
Bold Colours and Creative Ideas
While light and neutral colours are a safe bet for making a small space feel larger, don't shy away from bold choices.
  • Dark and Dramatic: A dark floor, such as charcoal gray or black slate, can create a feeling of luxury and elegance. It provides a striking contrast with a white or light-colored bathtub, vanity, and walls, making the room feel more intentional and sophisticated.
  • Earthy Tones: Inspired by a growing "modern organic" trend, earthy colours like mocha, sage green, and warm terracotta are becoming increasingly popular. These tones create a calming, spa-like atmosphere.
  • Colour Drenching: This trend involves using the same colour, often a rich and moody one, on the floor, walls, and sometimes even the ceiling. This immersive approach can make a small bathroom feel like a cozy cocoon and create a seamless, sophisticated look.
  • Accent Colours: Instead of a full-on bold floor, consider using a neutral base with pops of a bright or complementary colour. For instance, a white hexagonal tile floor with a few scattered tiles in a vibrant hue like emerald green or mustard yellow can add a creative twist.
Mixing and Matching Patterns and Materials
Mixing and matching is a great way to add visual interest, but the key is to ensure the elements complement rather than compete with each other.
  • Defining Zones: Use different flooring materials or patterns to define separate areas within a larger bathroom. For example, use a patterned tile in the shower area or as a "rug" under a freestanding tub, while keeping the rest of the floor in a simpler, neutral tile. This creates a visually engaging effect.
  • Combining Finishes: A mix of matte and glossy finishes can add dimension and play with light. For example, a polished tile on a wall with a non-slip matte tile on the floor creates both a beautiful and functional design.
  • Primary Pattern and Subtlety: If you choose a busy, intricate pattern for your floor, keep the rest of the room's surfaces (walls, shower tiles, etc.) simple and in a cohesive colour palette. This ensures the floor is the star of the show without overwhelming the space.
Complementing Furniture and Installations
The flooring should work in harmony with the other elements in the bathroom, from the vanity to the bathtub.
  • High-Contrast: A dark floor can beautifully ground a light-coloured vanity or a clawfoot tub, making these pieces stand out as focal points. Conversely, a bright, patterned floor will pop against simple, modern furniture and fixtures.
  • Consistent Tones: If your flooring has a specific colour or tone, you can repeat that colour in your towels, accessories, or even a piece of art to create a cohesive and well-designed space. For example, if you have a floor with blue-grey veins, use a similar shade for your vanity or paint colour.
  • Enhancing the Aesthetic: A wood-effect LVT floor complements rustic and natural themes, while a large-format porcelain tile with a marble effect can enhance a minimalist and luxurious aesthetic. The floor sets the stage for the furniture and fixtures to truly shine.
By considering these design principles, you can select a bathroom floor that delivers both practicality and a reflection of your style.

Practical Tips for Choosing a Bathroom Floor

Choosing a bathroom floor is a balance of aesthetics, practicality, and cost. By answering a few key questions about your specific situation, you can narrow down the vast array of options to find the perfect solution for your home.
1. What Is Your Budget?
Your budget is one of the most significant factors in this decision. Bathroom flooring costs can vary dramatically depending on the material and whether you're doing the installation yourself or hiring a professional.
  • Budget-friendly bathroom flooring: Sheet vinyl and peel-and-stick vinyl tiles are the most affordable options. They are a great choice if you're on a tight budget or want a quick, easy update. However, they may not offer the same durability or high-end look as more expensive materials.
  • Mid-Range: Ceramic tiles and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) fall into this category. They offer a great balance of durability, style, and cost. You can find a huge variety of looks, from classic stone to realistic wood effects, without breaking the bank.
  • High-End: Natural stone like marble or travertine is a premium, luxurious option. It commands a higher price for both the materials and professional installation, but it can significantly increase the resale value of your home.
2. Is Maintenance an Issue?
Different flooring materials require varying levels of maintenance. Consider how much time and effort you're willing to dedicate to keeping your bathroom floor looking its best.
  • Low Maintenance: Vinyl (both sheet and LVT) and porcelain tiles are excellent choices for low maintenance. Their non-porous surfaces make them incredibly easy to clean with a mop and a mild cleaner. LVT has the added benefit of having no grout lines to scrub.
  • Moderate Maintenance: Ceramic tiles require a bit more attention due to the grout lines, which can stain and need periodic cleaning and sealing.
  • High Maintenance: Natural stone requires the most care. It is porous and must be sealed upon installation and then resealed periodically (usually every 1-2 years) to protect it from water and stains. Using the wrong cleaning products can also damage the stone's surface.
3. Is Moisture a Challenge?
Moisture is the single biggest enemy of bathroom flooring. Your choice must be able to withstand constant exposure to splashes, spills, and high humidity without warping, swelling, or growing mold and mildew.
  • Totally Waterproof: Vinyl (sheet and LVT), porcelain tiles, and ceramic tiles (when properly sealed and installed) are completely waterproof. They are the safest choice for a busy family bathroom, especially in a wet room or near a shower or tub.
  • Water-Resistant (with caution): Newer water-resistant laminates can be used in bathrooms, but you must be careful. They're not waterproof and can be damaged by standing water that seeps into the seams. It's vital to choose a product specifically rated for bathrooms and to clean up spills immediately. Natural stone is also water-resistant, but only if it's regularly sealed.
  • Not Recommended: Solid hardwood and standard engineered wood are not suitable for bathrooms. The moisture will cause them to rot, buckle, and warp over time.
4. Will Underfloor Heating Be Installed?
If you're considering the luxury of underfloor heating, your flooring choice is a crucial part of the system's performance.
  • Best for Underfloor Heating: Tiles (ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone) are the best conductors of heat. They absorb and retain warmth, making them an ideal partner for underfloor heating systems.
  • Good for Underfloor Heating: Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is also a great option. It heats up quickly and is more comfortable underfoot than a cold tile floor. Most LVT products are compatible with underfloor heating, but you should always check the manufacturer's recommendations.
  • Not Recommended: Many vinyl sheets and laminate products are not compatible with underfloor heating, as the heat can cause the material to degrade or release chemicals. Always check the manufacturer's specifications.
5. Is the Flooring Part of a Full Bathroom Refit, or Is Just the Floor Being Changed?
The scope of your project will influence the difficulty and potential mess of the installation.
  • Full Bathroom Refit: If you're doing a complete renovation, you have the flexibility to choose any type of flooring. The subfloor can be prepped and leveled, and there's no need to work around existing fixtures. You can also easily install underfloor heating and make sure the new floor height works with the rest of the room.
  • Changing Just the Floor: If you're replacing the floor without a full refit, your options may be more limited. You need to consider the existing floor height so you don't create a step up or down at the doorway. Materials that can be laid on top of an existing floor, like LVT or vinyl sheet, are generally easier and less disruptive to install. You will also need to be careful not to damage the existing fixtures (vanity, toilet, etc.) during the process.

Shop The Best Flooring For Bathrooms at The Bathroom Showroom

Breaking down five popular flooring types, detailing the pros and cons of each, this bathroom flooring guide can help homeowners select the best flooring for a bathroom while balancing style, safety, and durability in a high-moisture environment.
Using flooring to create a specific aesthetic, while experimenting with various patterns and colours, different materials can help you define zones or create a cohesive "colour drenching" effect to promote the most inspirational of bathroom flooring choices.
The Bathroom Showroom has an exclusive Tile and Flooring Brochure that’s dedicated to helping you add those perfect finishing touches. From ceramic and porcelain tiles to rigid luxury vinyl flooring, here you’ll find something to suit every taste and budget.
​For more information on bathroom flooring, book an appointment with The Bathroom Showroom. Experts in all things bathrooms, we can help turn your dream bathroom into a reality.