Laminate Flooring in Wet Zones: Can You Use It in Kitchens and Baths?
When people walk into our Prescott showroom and start talking flooring, one of the first questions that comes up is, “Can I put laminate in my kitchen or bathroom?” And the short answer is yes, you can—you just need to understand how today’s laminate is built and how to use it wisely in those moisture-heavy areas.
I’ve been in this business a long time, and I’ve seen laminate evolve from something you’d avoid around water to a product that actually holds its own when it’s treated right. The newer materials are engineered with added oils in the wood, then pressure-treated with heat. That combination creates superior water resistance compared to the laminates we all grew up with.
Still, like anything else in your home, it performs best when you give it a little support.
Why Modern Laminate Handles Moisture Better
Today’s laminate isn’t the same stuff people used twenty years ago. Manufacturers are using oils, pressure, and heat to help the core resist swelling. That means the occasional splash or spill isn’t the enemy it used to be.
Now, if you pour water on it and walk away for hours, sure—you might see some damage. But in real-life living, where you’ve got a family coming and going and regular cleanups happening, it can hold up just fine.
That’s why I tell people: laminate in kitchens and bathrooms isn’t something to be scared of. It just needs a few smart habits to stay in great shape.
How to Protect Laminate in Kitchens and Bathrooms
Moisture isn’t just about big spills. It’s the daily drips around your shower, the splash zone at the sink, and—let’s be honest—the mystery puddles that show up around the toilet.
Here’s where planning makes a difference. I always recommend placing rugs in the high-moisture spots. That’s your first line of defense.
Simple areas to protect with a small rug or mat:
- Right outside the shower
- In front of the bathroom sink
- Around the toilet
- In front of the kitchen sink
- In front of the stove (for cooking spills)
These aren’t complicated solutions—they’re just practical. And they let laminate do what it’s designed to do without pushing it past its limits.
Laminate in Kitchens: What to Expect
Kitchens are high-traffic, high-function rooms. I’ve installed plenty of laminate in kitchens over the years, and what matters isn’t avoiding water altogether—it’s managing it.
Putting a rug by the sink is an easy win, and I even like adding one in front of the stove. Not only does it help with spills, but it’s also more comfortable when you’re cooking.
The good news is: regular use, daily cooking, wiping up splashes—these aren’t going to bother a modern laminate floor.
Laminate in Bathrooms: Yes, It Works
Bathrooms can feel trickier because there’s more standing water potential. But again, a little prevention goes a long way.
Laminate is a perfectly good product for bathrooms as long as you place mats where they matter and don’t let puddles sit untouched for long stretches. I’ve seen families get years and years out of bathroom laminate by following these simple habits.
It’s always about balancing beauty, durability, and lifestyle. If you love the look and feel of laminate, you don’t have to be afraid of using it in a bathroom.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Home Work for You
At the end of the day, laminate in wet zones comes down to smart choices and understanding how the material behaves. The newer laminates are built to resist moisture better than ever, and with just a little planning, they can be a durable, attractive option for your kitchen or bathroom.
If you’re thinking about new surfaces—flooring, countertops, or anything in between—bring a sketch and come see us. We’ll walk you through the options that make sense for your home and your lifestyle. After 27 years in this business, we’ve “seen it all,” and we’re here to help you find what feels good.
Designing Surfaces For Your Life











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