When choosing flooring for a child’s room, versatility is very important. Hardwood flooring allows for changes through the years and offers many decorating options. It’s best known for warm, rich looks and giving charm and the look of wealth to any room.
Safety is also important to keep in mind. Soft area rugs can be used on hardwood floors to soften the look of the room and to cater to differing tastes. Carpeting is another choice when it comes to safety. It offers padding and when neutral colors are used, there are still many ways to decorate.
In order to get the look and feel of real hardwood flooring, laminate is a more cost-efficient way to go. Laminate is also great because it’s best for high traffic areas and will stand up to the wear and tear a child can cause.
Vinyl can be used as well and it comes in different types: sheets, tiles and some companies even offer luxury vinyl styles. With vinyl sheets, there’s the look of natural wood but in a pattern. Vinyl tiles are great for patterns as well, but in a larger variety of colors and patterns. Since it is so easy to install, changing flooring can be an easy weekend project. Like with the other types of flooring, area rugs can be used to soften the hard floor for little bodies.
Another cost-efficient option is linoleum. It is an environmentally-friendly, durable flooring type best known for classic marble designs in rich colors. Despite linoleum not being a first choice for a baby’s room it, too, is easy to install making it worth considering.
Other, non-traditional choices include cork, bamboo and rubber. Cork is forgiving as far as falls and bumps, but it is not as forgiving when it comes to spills and other liquids.
Bamboo is a unique way to go. Like hardwood, it can be finished with a scratch-resistant urethane finish and can withstand wear and tear in high traffic rooms. Since it is environmentally friendly it is also a safe choice for any family member.
Rubber is durable and versatile. It comes in many colors, textures and designs. It’s great for active children with interests like ballet, dance, gymnastics, karate, etc. Like cork, rubber should be protected from spills and any liquids should be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent damage to the floors and possible hazards to children.
In order to find the best flooring, consider the space, what design is wanted and what the budget allows. Then, the all-around optimal choice will present itself.