Best Flooring Choices for Homes with Pets and Kids
Pets and kids bring life to a home, but they can also be tough on floors. Scratches, spills, and heavy foot traffic can wear down the wrong flooring fast. If you want something that stands up to daily chaos, here are the best options.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Durable and Waterproof
LVP is one of the best choices for homes with pets and kids. It looks like real wood but is much tougher.
Scratch-resistant – Holds up against pet claws and toy wheels.
Waterproof – Spills and accidents won’t soak in.
Soft underfoot – More comfortable than tile or hardwood.
Easy to clean – Sweeping and mopping are all it takes.
LVP comes in many colors and styles, so you can get the look you want without worrying about damage.
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, and play areas.
Tile: Tough and Easy to Clean
Tile is one of the most durable flooring options. It won’t scratch, stain, or absorb liquids, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas.
Extremely durable – Resists scratches and dents.
Waterproof – Perfect for spills, pet accidents, and muddy paws.
Stays cool – A bonus in Arizona’s hot climate.
Grout can trap dirt, so choosing a darker grout color or sealing it can help with maintenance. If tile feels too hard, adding rugs in play areas makes it more comfortable.
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
Laminate: Scratch-Resistant and Budget-Friendly
Laminate gives you the look of hardwood but with more durability and a lower price.
Scratch-resistant – Good for homes with active pets.
Easy to clean – Sweeping and light mopping keep it looking fresh.
More affordable than hardwood – A cost-effective way to get a wood look.
The main downside is moisture. Laminate can be damaged by water, so it’s not the best for rooms where spills happen often. Choosing a water-resistant laminate helps, but it’s still not as waterproof as LVP or tile.
Best for: Bedrooms and living areas with less exposure to moisture.
Engineered Hardwood: A Better Wood Option
If you love the look of real wood, engineered hardwood is a better choice than solid hardwood for homes with pets and kids.
More stable than solid wood – Less likely to warp or crack.
Scratch-resistant finishes available – Some types have a tough protective coating.
Can be refinished – Unlike laminate or LVP, it can be sanded and refinished if needed.
It’s still more delicate than tile or LVP, so using rugs in high-traffic areas helps protect it.
Best for: Formal spaces like dining rooms and offices.
Carpet: Soft but Harder to Maintain
Carpet is great for comfort, but it does require more upkeep.
Soft and warm – Perfect for bedrooms and playrooms.
Absorbs sound – Helps reduce noise from running kids and pets.
Stain-resistant options available – Some carpets are designed to resist spills and pet stains.
The biggest downside is that carpet traps pet hair, dirt, and allergens. Regular vacuuming and deep cleaning are a must. Choosing a low-pile or stain-resistant carpet makes maintenance easier.
Best for: Bedrooms and playrooms where comfort is more important than durability.
Final Thoughts
For homes with pets and kids, the best flooring options are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches and spills. LVP and tile are top choices for their toughness and waterproof qualities. Laminate and engineered hardwood offer a good balance of style and durability. Carpet works well in comfort-focused spaces but needs extra care.
Need help choosing the right flooring? Crafted AZ can guide you through the best options for your home. Contact us today to get started!
