Fitting vinyl flooring in a new bathroom is a popular choice. Not only do its slip, scratch- and splash-resistant properties make it a firm competitor against natural materials, such as stone, but vinyl is typically more affordable, with a style and durability to suit every budget.
So when it comes to bathroom flooring ideas, it has much to offer. However, with such a wealth of options, colours and looks, it can be hard to pair the right vinyl flooring with your bathroom scheme.
Boost your bathroom's style with these bathroom vinyl flooring ideas
The three types of vinyl flooring for bathrooms, from the least to most expensive, are:
- vinyl roll (also known as sheet vinyl or lino);
- glue down rigid core tiles (SPC);
- and click-fit luxury vinyl tiles (LVT).
"We always recommend luxury vinyl because it mimics the appearance of natural materials so well, so you’ll achieve a high-end finish with texture and detailing," begins Richard Skeoch, director at Hyperion Tiles.
"For example, wood-effect often features knots and grains so it’s difficult to tell the difference between the real thing. However, it is more durable because this flooring type is waterproof, making it ideal for rooms with high moisture, such as the bathroom."
"LVT comes in individual planks, and offers a more premium, realistic look," adds Mo Osman, director at Floor Warehouse. "These options often come with embossed finishes that closely mimic natural materials like stone or wood, giving you the beauty of these textures while maintaining the durability and water resistance necessary for a bathroom."
That said, roll vinyl can provide a cheap alternative in bathrooms which require a quick, budget makeover. Rolls can be picked up from as little as £50+ from flooring suppliers.
For almost 30 years, Richard has worked in the flooring industry and is the director of Hyperion Tiles, a leading independent tile stockist of premium tiles, porcelain tiles, stone flooring and statement tiles.
1. Mimic a high-end look affordably with vinyl flooring
One of the best things about the movement towards vinyl flooring in bathroom designs over recent years has been the innovations in capturing the textures and intricacies of natural flooring alternatives.
"Vinyl flooring is more affordable than the natural materials it’s designed to replicate, such as wood and stone," says Richard Skeoch. "Some of the latest luxury vinyl styles replicate marble, wood, including timeless herringbone design, and terrazzo for those who are looking for a striking finish in their bathroom which will stand the test of time."
"Costs can vary depending on the type of vinyl flooring you choose," adds Mo Osman. "Vinyl rolls are generally the most budget-friendly option.
"At Floor Warehouse, we offer rigid click-fit LVT, SPC, and glue-down LVT at slightly higher price points, but the additional investment is well worth it for the enhanced aesthetics, durability, and ease of maintenance. For example, our LVT stick-down options are priced between £25-£30 per m² (including VAT), while our Rigid Core LVT SPC ranges from £25-£40 per m² (including VAT)."
Mimick real stone with a material that is more cost-effective and warm underfoot. The patina and veins of this LVT have been laid so the patterns feel natural, perfectly contrasting with the stone used behind the vanity.
Replicate the period elegance of herringbone flooring with this stylish LVT. The charming wood grain and colour variation make the room feel as if real wood has been utilised, but the properties of LVT mean that it will be more resistant to splashes from the freestanding bath.
2. Use a marble-effect vinyl for a luxurious sanctuary
"Marble is a much-coveted flooring and wall finish in bathrooms, synonymous with boutique hotel suites and opulent high-end homes. However, the material has it downsides: namely that it is prone to staining — not the most practical of flooring choices in a room where cosmetics, toiletries and cleaning products can easily be spilled," says Claire Lloyd, Homebuilding & Renovating's business development editor.
Step in vinyl flooring. Here, a marble effect has been replicated to create this finish. Remember, however, even the best vinyl products will be printed on repeat, so when laying this type of flooring, try to pay attention to the patina to create a natural-looking variation.
Again, be mindful of your choice of vinyl. "In my experience, it can be difficult to clean stains from a textured/raised roll vinyl. LVT is much more durable and forgiving," says Claire Lloyd.
3. Utilise vinyl as a practical alternative to real wood
Although real wood flooring ages well, this material is actually not the best option for bathrooms, where high humidity and splashes are part of everyday use.
"Luxury vinyl is resistant to wear, scratches and dents so this level of durability is ideal for a high-traffic area, such as a bathroom," says Richard Skeoch. "It’s also waterproof so water spills and high humidity won’t affect it. This vinyl tends to feel warmer than tile underfoot and its slip resistant too."
"In our experience, many homeowners and designers gravitate toward wood flooring for bathrooms, but it’s not the best choice due to the risk of moisture damage, even with engineered wood," adds Mo Osman of Floor Warehouse.
"Over time, moisture changes can lead to issues like buckling or warping in wood floors. LVT, on the other hand, provides the same warm, natural aesthetic without the same risks.
"Recently, we’ve seen a surge in demand for herringbone patterns in vinyl flooring, particularly in LVT and SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) products. These styles bring the wood flooring look to the UK market but with the added benefits of water resistance and durability," he adds.
Floor Warehouse are experts in all types of flooring, including engineered wood, solid wood, LVT and SPC.
4. Embrace the warmth of vinyl underfoot in the bathroom
LVT and other vinyl products can also be a little more comfortable underfoot — meaning when you arrive bare-foot on a cold winter's morning, you won't get the chill you would expect from porcelain or real stone tiles.
The material, particularly LVT, also works well with underfloor heating to achieve every bit of a luxurious experience in the bathroom. That said, you need to check with the flooring supplier or manufacturer the maximum temperature your flooring finish can withstand before specifying it with underfloor heating in a bathroom.
5. Stay on-trend with affordable vinyl
Although we would recommend you consider your bathroom vinyl flooring ideas with longevity in mind, the simple and cost-efficient nature of vinyl might encourage homeowners to be braver in terms of the styles and patterns they choose.
Keep a firm eye on the latest trends and you can make a real impact by choosing a bold option for your flooring when renovating a bathroom.
Opting for a style that is adaptable, such as this stylish concrete-effect rigid tile, will make it easier to update the look of the room further down the line as the classic black and white scheme can be updated with different colours and accessories.
6. Be bold with patterned vinyl in a cloakroom
Homeowners tend to feel emboldened with cloakroom or downstairs bathroom ideas, choosing brighter colours, braver wallpapers and bolder patterns, but don't always want to spend huge amounts to get the look.
Vinyl's budget appeal and customisable designs means you can create exactly what you want without breaking the bank in small spaces.
This stylish, neutral bathroom displays the effectiveness of simple, yet visually interesting design. The patterned flooring is highlighted by the artwork on the wall while a tongue and groove panelling makes the room feel welcoming.
7. Use LVT on floors — and walls!
Unbeknownst to many, rigid vinyl and LVT can both be installed not just on the floor, but also on walls.
Vinyl's properties as a floor material also make it great as a splashback behind vanity units and toilets. It can also be used to blend unsightly boxing in of pipework to make every decision feel intentional.
In this bathroom, a concrete-effect tile has been used on both the floor and walls to complete the industrial-inspired effect. The large-format tile replicates the appearance of poured concrete, while annoying grout lines of porcelain or ceramic tiles are eradicated.
8. Keep maintenance to a minimum
Another benefit of introducing vinyl flooring ideas in the bathroom is the ease of maintenance.
"Low level maintenance can be done by dry brushing every few days but for a deeper clean LVT flooring can be vacuumed and mopped," explains Lidia Cetrangolo-Kane, marketing manager at bathroom wall panel specialist Multipanel.
For more on the best ways to approach cleaning and removing stubborn stains, read our guide to how to clean vinyl flooring.
9. Keep a bathroom renovation simple with vinyl
Unlike other flooring types, the vast majority of vinyls can be installed over an existing floor materials. "It can be installed over existing flooring such as old tiles, without extensive prep work," confirms Richard Skeoch. This will keep any bathroom revamp quick and pain-free.
Doing the job on a DIY basis may be achievable for competent DIYers — just follow our guide on how to lay vinyl flooring for step-by-step instructions. (That said, bear in mind that some LVT suppliers/manufacturers require installation by an approved installer in order for their product warranty to remain valid.)
10. Inject colour with vinyl bathroom flooring ideas
This bathroom is a masterclass in how to introduce colour without creating a space that is overwhelming. The subtle pinks and blues of the patterned vinyl flooring have been expertly picked out in the wall panelling and vanity unit.
The result is a serene, yet charming room that anyone would covet.
Keen to know more about specifying vinyl flooring in your home? Check out our guides to fitting LVT DIY and how much LVT flooring costs to install.
