When planning a bathroom remodel, most homeowners spend a lot of time thinking about fixtures, vanities, and tile designs—but the flooring? That often becomes an afterthought. The problem is, your bathroom floor takes a beating. It faces water spills, steamy showers, muddy footprints, and daily wear and tear. Choosing the wrong flooring can lead to warping, cracking, mold issues, or constant maintenance headaches.
This blog post is designed to help you avoid those problems by guiding you through the best bathroom flooring options available. Whether you're after luxury, budget-friendliness, or durability, you'll find the right fit here.
Key Considerations Before Choosing Bathroom Flooring
Before we dive into the options, it’s important to understand what makes flooring suitable for a bathroom. Here are a few critical factors to consider:
- Moisture Resistance: Bathrooms are high-moisture zones. Your flooring should stand up to steam, splashes, and spills.
- Durability: Frequent foot traffic and water exposure demand materials that hold up over time.
- Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to clean and maintain your floors.
- Safety: Slip resistance is a must, especially for homes with kids or elderly individuals.
- Comfort: Some materials feel cold and hard underfoot, while others offer a bit of cushioning.
- Cost: Always balance aesthetics with your budget and installation costs.
Top 7 Best Bathroom Flooring Options
Not all flooring is created equal—especially in the bathroom. Let’s look at the most popular choices and break down their strengths and weaknesses.
1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
LVP is one of the most popular flooring solutions for bathrooms today, and for good reason.
Pros:
- Waterproof and highly durable
- Resembles real wood or stone at a fraction of the price
- Soft and warm underfoot
- Easy to install and maintain
Cons:
- Can be less appealing to those wanting natural materials
- Low-quality brands may wear faster
Best for: Homeowners looking for style, resilience, and budget-friendliness.
2. Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
These classic tiles are staples in bathroom design thanks to their water resistance and range of styles.
Pros:
- Excellent water and stain resistance
- Comes in endless shapes, colors, and textures
- Long-lasting when properly installed
Cons:
- Hard and cold underfoot
- Slippery when wet (unless using a textured or matte finish)
- Installation can be labor-intensive
Best for: Anyone seeking a timeless, high-end look with superior durability.
3. Natural Stone Tile
Stone flooring—like marble, slate, or granite—brings a spa-like elegance to your bathroom remodel.
Pros:
- High-end, luxurious appearance
- Unique natural variations in every tile
- Strong and long-lasting
Cons:
- Expensive material and installation
- Requires sealing to resist moisture
- Can be slippery if not textured
Best for: Upscale remodels where aesthetics are a top priority.
4. Engineered Wood
If you love the warmth of real wood but fear the moisture, engineered wood could be the compromise you need.
Pros:
- More moisture-resistant than solid hardwood
- Natural wood appearance
- Warmer and more comfortable than tile
Cons:
- Still susceptible to water damage if not sealed properly
- Higher cost than vinyl or tile
Best for: Homeowners who want a cozy, natural feel with some water protection.
5. Waterproof Laminate
Modern waterproof laminates have come a long way and offer good moisture resistance with realistic looks.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly wood look
- Scratch and fade resistant
- Easy to install with click-lock systems
Cons:
- Not as durable as LVP
- Must ensure it’s labeled as waterproof, not just water-resistant
Best for: Mid-range remodels where style and cost matter equally.
6. Concrete (Sealed or Polished)
Minimalist and modern, sealed concrete is trending in bathroom design for its edgy look and practicality.
Pros:
- Completely waterproof when sealed
- Very durable
- Unique, industrial aesthetic
Cons:
- Cold and hard on the feet
- Limited design flexibility unless stained or textured
- Requires sealing and ongoing maintenance
Best for: Modern or industrial-style homes where simplicity and function matter.
7. Cork (Waterproofed)
Cork is an eco-friendly option that feels great underfoot but must be specially treated for bathroom use.
Pros:
- Soft, warm, and cushioned
- Naturally resistant to mold and mildew
- Sustainable and renewable
Cons:
- Needs sealing to handle moisture
- Limited styles and colors
- Can scratch easily
Best for: Eco-conscious homeowners wanting comfort and warmth.
Budget Breakdown: Flooring Cost Comparison
Here’s a quick look at average installed costs (per square foot):
- Luxury Vinyl Plank: $2 – $7
- Ceramic/Porcelain Tile: $5 – $15
- Natural Stone: $10 – $30
- Engineered Wood: $6 – $12
- Waterproof Laminate: $2 – $5
- Concrete (Sealed): $3 – $10
- Cork (Sealed): $5 – $10
Keep in mind that installation complexity and bathroom size will influence the final price.
Style & Design Tips to Match Your Bathroom Aesthetic
The right bathroom floor enhances the look and feel of the entire space. A few design tips:
- Choose light-toned flooring to open up a small bathroom.
- Wood-look vinyl or laminate pairs beautifully with white tubs and subway tile walls.
- Bold patterned tiles can serve as a focal point in modern or boho bathrooms.
- Pair stone floors with frameless glass showers for a luxury spa vibe.
Flooring Mistakes to Avoid During a Remodel
- Skipping waterproofing: Even "moisture-resistant" options can fail without proper prep.
- Using standard laminate or hardwood: These aren’t built for high-moisture areas.
- Choosing slick tile with no texture: This can lead to slips and falls.
- DIY installs without prep: Improper subfloor leveling or sealing can lead to damage down the road.
Why Professional Installation Makes a Difference
Bathroom flooring is one place where it pays to hire a pro. Here’s why:
- They’ll ensure the subfloor is prepped, level, and moisture-sealed.
- Grout and seams will be done correctly to prevent future leaks.
- A pro can recommend the best bathroom flooring option based on your exact layout and needs.
Final Thoughts: Which Bathroom Flooring Is Right for You?
Choosing the best bathroom flooring option comes down to your priorities. If you need something affordable and low-maintenance, luxury vinyl plank is a top contender. Want upscale and timeless? Natural stone or tile may be the way to go. For warmth and sustainability, look at sealed cork.
No matter what you choose, make sure it’s built for moisture, suits your design style, and is installed by a trusted expert.
Ready to Start Your Bathroom Remodel?
Let Bathtub Made New help you transform your bathroom from the ground up—literally. Our experienced team can guide you in choosing the right flooring, fixtures, and finishes to bring your dream bathroom to life. Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we make remodeling stress-free and stunning.