Should I have a carpet in the bathroom?

When selecting a flooring option for bathrooms, carpet is not always the first choice that springs to mind for homeowners. Floors in bathrooms need regular cleaning to stay hygienic, and caring for carpets can be more time-consuming than other flooring choices. Bathroom floors can also see excess water splashed from sinks or dripped after showers, and this spillage can be far easier to mop up from hard surfaces than extract from carpets.

There are many people, however, who still select a carpeting for their bathrooms. From appearance to additional comfort, there are multiple benefits to fitting carpet in your bathroom, but there are some downsides too. Read on to discover the pros and cons of carpet in your bathroom and to discover some other options available that you might not have considered.

Advantages of selecting carpet

There is no doubt that a high-quality carpet in your bathroom can create a luxury look. Bathrooms are no longer just functional rooms to wash in, but places where people like to relax. Carpeting a bathroom can not only enhance its appearance, but also offer sumptuous levels of comfort. Instead of stepping onto cold tiles in the morning, your feet can sink into the soft fibres of a deep pile carpet. On the safety side, carpets in bathroom can be an ideal way to avoid any unfortunate accidents from slipping. Some carpets have been specially designed for use in bathrooms, but they will still need regular attention to ensure they remain in top condition.

Disadvantages of carpeting

While carpets can be cleaned, this process will always be a higher maintenance task to perform than taking care of other flooring options, such as tiles. If not cleaned properly, carpeting can become stained with unsightly water marks and quickly lose its attractive appearance. Carpet can also sometimes struggle in wet environments – damp and mildew can develop if carpets are left uncared for and can lead to a build-up of germs and bacteria. To avoid lasting damage to your carpet, it is essential to stick to a strict cleaning schedule.

Alternatives to carpet in your bathroom

Maintenance-free and simple to clean, laminate flooring is a durable option for busy family bathrooms. Specially engineered with a water sealant and equipped with an underlay with damp proof capabilities, it is perfectly suitable for wet rooms. On top of this, it can resemble a wide variety of materials, from stately marble and natural stone to high-end granite.

Vinyl is another ideal choice for bathrooms, as, like laminate, it can replicate other materials, including polished porcelain or sleek ceramics. Both durable and affordable, it can even incorporate abstract patterns for added style. Multiple varieties of vinyl and laminate flooring can also be used in conjunction with underfloor heating systems, so you can enjoy some extra comfort underfoot.

Whether you opt for plush carpeting or the latest advances in laminate and vinyl flooring for your bathroom, you will find a wealth of options readily available to suit your needs.