If you are the parent of young children, you already know that spills and messes are inevitable in the kitchen. This is why you need to choose flooring that’s durable enough to withstand the daily use brought on by your children. The last thing you want to do is choose some flooring that needs to be replaced in just a few years.
A Childproof Kitchen: How to Choose Flooring That Will Last
Use the following tips to choose a floor that is sure to last in a childproof kitchen.
Be Mindful of Foot Traffic
Start by considering the foot traffic in your kitchen. Are your children in and out of the kitchen several times a day? You also want to think about other activities that are done in the kitchen, such as crafts and homework. Remember to consider how often your pets come into the kitchen as well.
Research The Types of Flooring
The next step is to research floors that can withstand the foot traffic in your kitchen. The floor you choose should also be resistant to moisture to create a safe environment for your family. A few examples:
- porcelain tile
- bamboo
- laminate
- engineered flooring
You’ll also want to research:
- cost
- maintenance
- durability of each material
For example, engineered flooring is capable of resisting warping caused by exposure to water. Its ability to remain undamaged helps it last for an especially long time. Do your research and identify pros and cons as you search for flooring that will suit your needs.
Look Into Maintenance
Maintenance plays a huge role in choosing a floor that will last for years, so you want to ensure you are choosing a floor that is easy to maintain. Remember, you may not be able to devote a lot of time to maintaining your kitchen floor when you have children and other tasks. If the maintenance is going to increase your stress, it may be best to move on to another material or protect the flooring by adding a rug to the area.
Hire a Professional for Installation
It never hurts to hire a professional to install your kitchen floor. If you do not have the experience or equipment necessary for installing a floor, you could make a costly mistake that results in a damaged floor. A professional can properly install and seal the floor to ensure it remains durable for years.
Consider an Area Rug
Once your new floor is installed, it may help to protect the high traffic areas with an area rug. For example, you can place a large rug under the dining table. This way, you are protecting the floor from sliding chairs and foot traffic. You may also decide to place a floor mat in front of the sink to catch splashes and spills.
If you keep the above tips in mind, you can easily create a childproof kitchen with a floor that is sure to last for years to come.
About the Writer: Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most of her time hiking, biking, and gardening. For more information, contact Brooke via Facebook at facebook.com/brooke.chaplan or Twitter @BrookeChaplan
