Short answer: Yes, you can put laminate flooring in a bathroom but there are some important things to consider before you do.
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for its realistic wood or tile effect, affordable price point, and ease of installation. However, when it comes to bathrooms, it’s not always the most straightforward option.
The main issue with using laminate flooring in a bathroom is moisture. Laminate is water-resistant, not waterproof. That means it can handle the odd splash or spill, but prolonged exposure to water or high humidity can cause it to warp, swell, or lift at the joints over time.
This makes bathrooms, where steam, condensation, and standing water are common, a potentially risky environment for traditional laminate flooring.
If you’re set on using laminate in your bathroom, there are steps you can take to give it the best possible chance of lasting:
Choose a high-quality laminate with strong water resistance. To a take at our full range of laminate flooring
Seal the edges carefully during installation to prevent water from seeping in.
Most importantly, use one of our specialist laminate underlay products. Our underlay options are designed to help absorb moisture and create a more stable base, reducing the risk of damage over time.
With the right preparation and ongoing care, laminate can work in a bathroom setting just with some added precautions.
If you love the look of real wood or tiles but want a more bathroom-friendly option, Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) might be the perfect alternative.
LVT offers many of the same benefits as laminate:
Realistic wood or tile-style designs
Affordable price point
Easy click-fit or glue-down installation
But unlike laminate, LVT is 100% waterproof, making it much more suitable for wet areas like bathrooms, en-suites, and downstairs WCs. It won't warp, swell, or lift when exposed to water, so you can enjoy the same stylish finish with much greater peace of mind.
At Carpet Warehouse, we stock a wide range of colours & styles that are perfect for bathroom LVT flooring, from modern tile effect LVT flooring to herringbone LVT flooring. Unsure what is right for you? Browse our entire LVT flooring range to find your perfect fit.
So, can you put laminate flooring in a bathroom? Yes but it’s not without its challenges. If you go this route, be sure to use a high-quality laminate and pair it with a specialist underlay to help protect against moisture.
However, for complete confidence in a damp environment, LVT is often the better choice. You’ll get the same stunning aesthetic with the added benefit of waterproof performance perfect for busy family bathrooms or high-humidity spaces.
