Bathroom floor tiles are now available in different designs and aesthetics. The most important decision you must make before your next makeover is choosing the flooring type: porcelain, vinyl, laminate, and others. Each option has both its functionality and visual appeal. From waterproof bathroom flooring to durable unique designs, this guide explores all the bathroom floor tile options, maintenance, and cleaning tips for a long-lasting bathroom floor.

Bathroom Flooring Ideas: What to Choose

To create a visually appealing bathroom floor, you must choose the best bathroom option for the most moist-prone area of your home. Bathroom floor tiles range in material, pattern, feel, and aesthetics, these are the most common tile options:

Bathroom Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl bathroom flooring is the most popular option in the market for its durability and cost. Vinyl tiles are a type of synthetic flooring material also known as PVC. The design of this material mimics the look of natural surfaces like stone, wood, or ceramic. Vinyl tiles are water-resistant, which makes them perfect for bathrooms.

The bathroom vinyl flooring roll is a continuous vinyl flooring sheet with PVC material. It is a budget-friendly option that is 100% waterproof, although it is a DIY option, it might not be as easy to install in the bathroom area due to its large sheets. Waterproof vinyl flooring for bathrooms can range in different types, such as luxury vinyl, which is high quality with thicker textures, making it more durable and waterproof. In addition, self adhesive bathroom tiles are common nowadays due to their affordability and installation ease, also known as peel and stick. One of the most rigid and low-maintenance types of vinyl is SPC flooring, which is easy to install and ideal for high-traffic bathrooms.

Bathroom Laminate Flooring

Since traditional laminate flooring is wood-based, it does not make it ideal for bathrooms, as it will absorb water and swell. However, verify if the laminate bathroom flooring is waterproof and not just water-resistant. Waterproof laminate floor tiles use a high-density core and a coating that resists and repels moisture.

Bathroom Lino Flooring (Linoleum)

Linoleum flooring is an eco-friendly option. It is made of natural materials such as cork dust, linseed oil, wood flour, and jute backing. Lino flooring is known for its durability and biodegradability, making it a sustainable choice. Not only is it a renewable material, but lino is also water-resistant, durable, resistant to allergens, and warmer than other tiles.

Stone Tile Flooring

On the other hand, stone tile flooring for bathrooms is the most luxurious option, offering natural beauty and longevity. Stone tiles come in a wide variety, ranging from marble, granite, limestone, slate, travertine, and sandstone bathroom floor tiles. Although these tiles are highly durable, they need more maintenance as some can be prone to scratching, and discolouring, and at a higher cost. Some stones are also more slippery when wet, unless properly engineered and textured.

Wood Floor Bathroom

Most renovators will avoid using hardwood in bathrooms due to its excess moisture. However, it is possible and feasible if you want the look of wood in your home without using PVC or tiles to imitate the wood look. Engineered, sealed, and treated wood resist moisture better. However, installing wood flooring needs professional help for proper installation and regular maintenance. Consider using wood floors if your bathroom is properly ventilated.

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing Bathroom Floor Tiles

Non Slip Bathroom Flooring

Non slip bathroom flooring options have the most textured surfaces. To choose the best non-slip tiles check the coefficient of friction (COF) which needs to be more than 0.6 in wet areas.

• Mosaic bathroom floor tiles: pebble and mosaic floor tiles have a smaller surface with more grout in between making them a perfect non slip option.

• Porcelain tiles: have high durability in your bathroom and high natural traction.

• Matte and texture-finish ceramic tiles: less slippery than the glossy options but easy to clean.

• Natural stone tiles: honed natural stones provide a natural look and grip, but require proper sealing to be moisture resistant.

Bathroom Click Flooring

Click flooring is an easy and durable solution to tile floors. It consists of planks that click together in an interlocking mechanism without the need for glue or nails. It is available with vinyl, laminate, and engineered wood. However, click-lock vinyl is the most durable and waterproof option for use in a bathroom.

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips:

The bathroom area needs regular vacuuming to remove dust daily. In addition to mopping and ventilating the bathroom to prevent mould, there should be some guidelines for cleaning certain bathroom floor tiles:

Waterproof Vinyl Bathroom Flooring:

Vinyl Tiles are low maintenance and easy to clean. You can mop with detergent and water, though avoid harsh chemicals as they can peel the outer layer.

Natural Stone and Linoleum Tiles:

Natural stone tiles need sealing to prevent water damage, so they can be high-maintenance. When cleaning, avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, as they can discolour them. Use stone-specific cleaners and wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining. Reapply hydrophobic (water-repellant) sealant every 6 to 12 months. The same method can be used for linoleum flooring; the difference is that you need to apply wax or a linoleum polish every 6 to 12 months to restore its shine.

Waterproof Laminate Flooring:

Only use a damp mop to clean and avoid leaving standing water as it can peel the surface. Avoid harsh chemicals given that they can damage it and use a mild dish soap and warm water combination.

Non Slip Tiles:

Since textured surfaces trap more dirt, they require more cleaning. To remove the dirt, you can use a scrubber and soapy water. Ensure that the soap buildup is thoroughly rinsed away, as it can make the surfaces more slippery and dangerous.

Grout Maintenance:

You can use a paste of baking soda and vinegar and an old toothbrush to scrub the grout. For a deep cleaning experience, use a steam cleaner. Ensure the grout is cleaned regularly and resealed when necessary as it can cause mould buildup. 

No matter what type of bathroom floor tile you choose—elegant stone, durable vinyl, cosy wood-effect, or classic ceramic—proper installation is crucial for a flawless finish and long-lasting durability. While DIY installation might seem tempting, it often leads to costly mistakes, uneven surfaces, and water damage.

At AV Modern Bathrooms, we specialise in professional bathroom renovations, ensuring every tile is perfectly fitted for optimal performance and aesthetics. Our team of experienced fitters handles everything from floor preparation to precise installation, giving you peace of mind and a bathroom floor that stands the test of time.  

Ready to transform your bathroom? Get in touch today for a free quote! Our full renovation packages start at just £3,600, offering exceptional value for a high-quality makeover. For more information, call us at +44 1942 365989, email us at info@avmodernbathrooms.com, or visit our showroom at 69-71 Higher Parr Street, St. Helens, WA9 1AD, UK.