What is The Best Flooring for kids and pets?
If you’re raising little ones—or furry ones—your home’s flooring needs to do more than just look good. It has to stand up to spills, scratches, zoomies, toy trucks, muddy paws, and everything in between. At The Design Center in Orofino, Idaho, we help homeowners choose flooring that’s both family-friendly and fabulous.
Here’s our expert take on the best flooring options for homes with kids and pets.
🪵 1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): The Top Contender
Why it’s great:
LVP is a go-to choice for families because it checks nearly every box: waterproof, scratch-resistant, soft underfoot, and affordable. It mimics the look of hardwood but holds up much better to kid-and-pet chaos.
Pros:
100% waterproof
Resists scratches and dents
Soft and warm underfoot (great for crawlers and nap-loving pets)
Easy to clean and maintain
Wide variety of styles and finishes
Cons:
Not as long-lasting as real hardwood
Can fade in direct sunlight over time
🧽 2. Tile Flooring: Built Like a Tank
Why it’s great:
Tile is extremely durable, making it perfect for high-traffic areas and muddy paws. It's also stain-resistant and doesn’t absorb odors—a big plus for pet parents.
Pros:
Nearly indestructible
Easy to clean
Won’t absorb pet accidents
Cooling in summer months
Cons:
Hard and cold underfoot (area rugs help)
Can be slippery when wet
Grout may require occasional maintenance
🌾 3. Laminate Flooring: Budget-Friendly Durability
Why it’s great:
Laminate offers a wood-like appearance with a tough wear layer that resists scratches and scuffs—ideal for high-energy homes.
Pros:
Affordable alternative to hardwood
Scratch-resistant surface
Many style choices
Cons:
Not waterproof (some waterproof versions exist)
Can sound hollow without proper underlayment
🪑 4. Engineered Hardwood: The Real Wood Look with Extra Strength
Why it’s great:
Engineered hardwood gives you the beauty of real wood with more stability and moisture resistance than solid hardwood.
Pros:
Authentic wood feel and appearance
More stable than solid hardwood
Can increase home value
Cons:
Not as resistant to scratches or water as LVP or tile
May require refinishing over time
🚫 What to Avoid
Carpet: Though soft for kids, it stains easily and traps pet hair and odors.
Solid hardwood: Beautiful, but more vulnerable to scratches, dents, and moisture.
🏠 Flooring That Fits Your Family
At The Design Center in Orofino, Idaho, we know every family is different. Whether your priority is durability, comfort, or style, we’ll help you choose the perfect flooring to stand up to your little ones—and your furry friends.
Ready to upgrade your floors?
Come visit our showroom or schedule a free consultation. Let’s find flooring that fits your lifestyle beautifully.
Sincerely~ The Design Center of Orofino Idaho
