10 Bathroom Flooring Alternatives To Tile

Choosing bathroom flooring involves many considerations beyond the usual tile.

We’ve researched the best alternatives for your bathroom. Here are ten excellent options to consider:

1. Rubber

While rubber flooring may not be as commonly used in home bathrooms as in industrial or public bathrooms, it makes for a great flooring option.

It’s also increasing in demand due to its durability and easy installation. There are polished rubber flooring options available that can add a more luxurious texture to your bathroom.

This flooring material has antimicrobial properties, is eco-friendly, and provides insulation for bathroom floors.

Rubber flooring is also naturally water-resistant. Plus, compared to other flooring materials, it is fairly inexpensive, and you can typically install it yourself.

2. Vinyl

One of the most popular bathroom flooring options is vinyl. Vinyl sheets are water-resistant and very easy to maintain, so this material is worth considering if your bathroom receives a lot of foot traffic daily.

Depending on your preferred installation method, vinyl flooring comes in long strips or planks. However, you will find that the sheets are typically easier to install.

It’s also one of the most inexpensive options, which is great if your bathroom is on the larger side.

3. Engineered Hardwood

Engineered hardwood is worth considering if you want the modern or rustic look of natural wood in your bathroom without worrying about it cracking or buckling.

This flooring is also relatively easy to maintain, only requiring occasional sweeping and mopping to remove dust and debris. Another plus is the planks are easy and quick to install.

4. Sheet Linoleum

Linoleum flooring is also a good option if you prefer not to have tile in your bathroom. It’s similar to vinyl in appearance; however, it’s very different in its makeup.

Linoleum flooring has natural antimicrobial properties, making it very resilient to mold and mildew—a plus, given that most bathrooms will contain a high amount of humidity.

Linoleum doesn’t scratch easily and is known to hold up well for 10 to 20 years before needing replacement. It is also easy to install and is fire—and water-resistant.

5. Natural Wood

Solid hardwood flooring is beautiful but prone to buckling in humid bathrooms. However, it’s perfect for a guest bathroom or a half bath, adding elegance and modernity.

Depending on the wood, it can be affordable, with planks costing $2.50 to $7 per square foot and installation averaging $5 to $12 per square foot.

6. Concrete

Concrete flooring can be a good option if you’re looking for a modern or more industrial look. Typically, it acts as the structural floor of basements, but it can also make for an interesting bathroom floor.

If you don’t mind a harder surface, concrete flooring offers a water-resistant and durable alternative to tile. It’s easy to install yourself in a day or two—just make sure it’s level for even drying.

7. Laminate

Laminate flooring is another suitable bathroom alternative to tile. These floors have a clear plastic protectant on the top, making them water-resistant and scratch-resistant.

You’ll also find that laminate flooring is available in various patterns and colors, some of which can resemble stone and wood flooring.

Laminate is easy to install, and if you have an average-sized bathroom, you can typically do it yourself in a day.

8. Bamboo

Looking for a more eco-friendly option? Consider installing bamboo flooring in your bathroom—they can add an earthy and sleek look.

It’s better to go with engineered bamboo than natural bamboo, as these planks are designed specifically for wet environments—meaning they are more durable.

Bamboo can easily be installed in your bathroom, and replacing broken or damaged pieces is relatively easy. The only downside to bamboo flooring is that it may scratch more easily than other options.

9. Cork

If you are looking for flooring with a softer feel, consider cork for your bathroom floor update. Cork flooring typically has a water-resistant sealer to prevent water damage and stains.

You’ll be happy to know that cork is slip-resistant and has antimicrobial properties, making it a great option for hot baths or showers.

It’s also an eco-friendly material that can give your bathroom an inviting and unique appearance.

10. Carpet

Carpet is typically the last flooring option you think of when it comes to bathroom choices, but it can work well in some scenarios.

If you have a guest bathroom or a half bath, carpet may be fine. Not only is carpet an inexpensive flooring option, but it’s also easy to install and can be vacuumed clean in minutes.

What Is The Best Flooring For A Small Bathroom?

Since bathrooms are typically smaller spaces than other areas of the home, the flooring material cost will have less of an impact than if the bathroom is larger.

However, it is a good idea to go with flooring materials that are easier to install, given that you’re working with a limited amount of space.

Vinyl and linoleum are the best flooring options for small bathrooms. They’re affordable, durable, water-resistant, and easy to install, saving you money with DIY installation.

What Is The Easiest Flooring To Install In A Bathroom?

Vinyl flooring is typically the easiest to install, and due to its water resistance and durability, it’s a prevalent bathroom floor option.

They come in many forms, including vinyl composition, luxury, and solid vinyl tile. So, whatever preference you have for four colors and patterns, a vinyl option may be available if you’re looking for an easy install.

What Is The Best Waterproof Flooring For A Bathroom?

Ceramic and vinyl are two flooring options worth noting when it comes to waterproof capability.

Ceramic

Ceramic flooring is known for its easy maintenance and durability, but it also holds up well against water.

Though ceramic isn’t waterproof exactly, as it is slightly porous, it is known to be as good as waterproof floors. Many ceramic tiles are also treated with waterproofing sealant.

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring is also a good waterproof option. Most vinyl flooring materials are 100% waterproof, which explains why it’s such a sought-after flooring option in bathrooms and basements.

Vinyl is also easy to keep clean, and new vinyl options last longer than their predecessors.

Wrapping Things Up

Whichever alternative bathroom flooring option you choose, the key is ensuring the floors look good and last for years. Good ventilation and regular cleaning can help.

Before you go, be sure to check out our other posts:

What Is The Best Wood Flooring For Living Room?

11 Stunning Basement Flooring Ideas

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