The best flooring for a kitchen is laminate. It’s practical, cost-effective, and handles the day-to-day wear better than most people give it credit for. Well, that’s the short answer. But there’s more to the story because not every kitchen is the same, and not every homeowner is looking for the exact same thing.
Some people cook three meals a day. Others reheat leftovers and grab coffee on the go. Some kitchens are busy family hubs. Others stay spotless most of the time. That’s why the best kitchen flooring for you depends on how you live and what matters most in your space.
Still, there are a few materials that stand out across the board.
Laminate: The All-Around Winner
Laminate has come a long way. These days, it’s one of the most common choices for kitchens because it checks off a lot of boxes for homeowners. It’s durable, easy to clean, and budget-friendly. It handles foot traffic well and resists scratches better than hardwood. It’s also less expensive to install compared to tile or wood.
The real reason laminate stands out in kitchens is because of its moisture resistance. Style-wise, laminate has also improved. It can mimic the look of hardwood or stone without the cost or upkeep. And unlike tile, it’s more forgiving underfoot, warmer and not as hard if you’re standing for long stretches.
If you’re looking for the best kitchen floors that balance price, appearance, and performance, durable laminate flooring is hard to beat and our #1 choice.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): A Close Second
Vinyl has a reputation that’s hard to shake, but the newer luxury vinyl plank (LVP) options are a different story. LVP is one of the best flooring choices for a kitchen if waterproofing is your top priority. It’s designed to handle spills, humidity, and wear.
Compared to laminate, LVP is a bit more rugged when it comes to moisture. You can mop it, clean it regularly, and not worry too much. That makes it a smart pick for families, pet owners, or anyone who knows their kitchen sees a little bit of everything.
The look of LVP has also improved. Good-quality vinyl can be hard to tell apart from wood or tile unless you’re really looking close. And because it’s relatively thin, it works well in homes where the flooring needs to match up with existing thresholds or cabinetry without much adjustment.
LVP tends to cost a little more than laminate, but for some, the added water resistance is worth it.
Tile: Great for Durability, Not Comfort
Tile is one of the most durable kitchen flooring materials out there. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are tough, water-resistant, and long-lasting. They don’t stain, don’t scratch easily, and can take a beating.
For homes where longevity matters most – where people plan to stay for years and don’t want to think about replacing floors again – tile is a solid option.
That said, it’s not for everyone. Tile can be cold underfoot, especially in winter, which isn’t a big seller with Canadians. It’s also hard, which makes it less comfortable for people who spend a lot of time cooking. Dropping a plate usually means saying goodbye to it. And while cleaning is easy, grout lines can get dirty fast without regular care.
Installation costs can be higher too. Prep work takes time, and the labour involved can drive the price up. But once it’s in, it doesn’t budge. If you don’t mind the extra effort up front, tile earns its spot among the best kitchen flooring options.
Engineered Wood: When Style Comes First
Engineered wood gives you the look of real wood, but with better performance in a kitchen setting than solid hardwood. It’s made from layers of wood with a hardwood veneer on top, so it’s more stable when exposed to humidity and temperature shifts.
This isn’t the most water-friendly option on the list, but with the right care, it can still work well. Quick cleanup is key. Engineered wood isn’t something you want to leave wet for long, and it’s not ideal for kitchens that see a lot of spills.
Still, for people who want warmth, texture, and a classic finish, it’s a good compromise. Just know what you’re signing up for, it’s more sensitive than vinyl or tile, and might need refinishing over time.
What to Skip
Some materials just don’t make sense in kitchens. Solid hardwood doesn’t hold up to moisture. Carpet is a definite no. And while natural stone can look great, it requires sealing and a level of maintenance most people don’t want in a kitchen. The best kitchen floors are the ones you don’t have to think about every day.
Now You Know
So, what’s the best flooring for a kitchen? If we had to pick just one, laminate is the most well-rounded. It’s affordable, durable, easy to clean, and available in a huge range of styles. But luxury vinyl plank isn’t far behind. At the end of the day, the best kitchen flooring comes down to how you use the space, and you can refer back to this blog or contact us whenever you need some more guidance when choosing your kitchen floor!