upstairs bedroom flooring

What is the Best Flooring for Upstairs Bedrooms? [A Quick Guide]

The upstairs bedroom is our sanctuary, our escape from the world. Naturally, when it comes to choosing the flooring for this special space, we want nothing but the best.

But with so many options out there, how do we decide? What type of flooring should I go for? What flooring will work best in my room?

Let’s take a look.


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Carpet: The Classic Comfort

There’s a reason why carpet has been a popular choice for bedrooms for decades. It’s soft, warm underfoot, and provides a cosy feel that’s hard to beat.

Imagine waking up on a chilly morning and setting your feet down on a plush carpet. Sounds delightful, doesn’t it?

Research shows that carpets can also act as insulators, helping to retain heat in a room. This can be particularly beneficial for upstairs bedrooms, which can sometimes be drafty.

As well, carpets are excellent at sound absorption. So, if you’ve got kids playing downstairs or perhaps a TV on full blast, a carpeted bedroom can be your quiet retreat. Note: If you’re looking to soundproof your bedroom windows too, read our guide here.

Still, it’s essential to choose the right type of carpet. Wool carpets, for instance, are durable and naturally stain-resistant. On the other hand, nylon carpets are known for their resilience and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic.

Hardwood: Timeless Elegance

Hardwood floors exude a charm that’s both timeless and elegant. They’re durable, easy to clean, and can add significant value to your home. But is it the right choice for an upstairs bedroom?

Well, many homeowners swear by the beauty of hardwood. It’s versatile, with a range of finishes and wood types to choose from. Whether you’re going for a rustic oak or a sleek maple, there’s a hardwood floor to match your bedroom’s aesthetic.

However, there are practical considerations to keep in mind. Hardwood floors can be noisy, and extremely creaky. If you’re not a fan of the sound of footsteps echoing through the house, you might want to think twice.

But, with the right underlay and perhaps a few strategically placed rugs, you can enjoy the beauty of hardwood without the noise.

Laminate: The Practical Choice

If you’re after the look of hardwood but are on a budget, laminate flooring might just be the answer.

It’s durable, resistant to scratches and dents, and comes in a plethora of designs. From oak to walnut, you can achieve almost any look with laminate.

But what makes laminate stand out is its practicality. It’s incredibly easy to install and even easier to maintain. A quick sweep and a damp mop, and you’re good to go. Plus, for those who suffer from allergies, laminate doesn’t harbour dust mites or allergens, making it a healthy choice for the bedroom.

Despite that, like hardwood, laminate can be a tad noisy. But again, with the right underlay, this issue can be mitigated.

For a full breakdown, see our Laminate Flooring in Bedrooms: Pros, Cons & Alternatives article.

Vinyl: The Modern Marvel

Vinyl flooring has made significant strides in recent years, becoming a favourite for many homeowners. Why, you ask?

Well, vinyl offers a blend of style, durability, and affordability. It’s water-resistant, making it an excellent choice for those accidental spills or if you fancy having a drink by your bedside.

One of the standout features of vinyl is its vast range of designs. Whether you’re after a stone, ceramic, or even a hardwood look, vinyl has got you covered.

Plus, it’s softer underfoot compared to laminate or hardwood, offering a more comfortable experience.

Bamboo: The Eco-friendly Option

For those environmentally conscious souls out there, bamboo flooring might just tick all the boxes. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for flooring. But it’s not just about being eco-friendly; bamboo floors are both stylish and durable.

Bamboo has a unique appearance, setting it apart from traditional hardwood. It’s also naturally resistant to moisture and insects. However, it’s essential to choose the right type of bamboo flooring. Strand-woven bamboo, for instance, is known for its exceptional durability and hardness.

That said, bamboo can fade if exposed to prolonged sunlight. So, if your upstairs bedroom gets a lot of natural light, you might want to use blinds or curtains to protect your floor. Just one reason why bedroom curtains should touch the floor!

Tile: Cool and Contemporary

Lastly, while not the most conventional choice for bedrooms, tiles have found their way into the modern bedroom, especially in warmer climates. Tiles have the advantage of staying cool, which can be a blessing during those hot summer nights.

Tiles also offer unmatched versatility in design. From ceramics to porcelain, from mattes to glossies, the design possibilities are endless. Plus, they’re easy to clean and maintain.

However, tiles can feel hard and cold underfoot. But this can be easily remedied with the use of area rugs or underfloor heating for those who fancy a bit of luxury.

Wrapping Up…

At the end of the day, the best flooring for your upstairs bedroom comes down to personal preference. Whether you’re after the comfort of carpet, the elegance of hardwood, or the practicality of laminate, there’s no wrong choice.

Just remember to consider both the aesthetic and practical aspects. After all, your bedroom is your sanctuary, and it deserves nothing but the best.

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