The short version
- Best: tile, or glue-down / rigid vinyl.
- Avoid: laminate and hardwood near the washer.
- Use a drip pan under the washer (ideally to a drain) and braided hoses.
- Floating floors under heavy appliances: check the maker's rules first.
Comparing floors
| Floor | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Tile | Best for leaks. Hard and cold underfoot |
| Glue-down vinyl | Great: water-resistant, doesn't float, takes appliance weight |
| Rigid vinyl (click) | Good. Water can still get under at the edges |
| Laminate | Risky: a slow leak swells it |
| Hardwood | Not recommended |
The details that matter
- Drip pan with a drain line if you can. A leak alarm is cheap insurance.
- Replace rubber hoses with braided steel ones.
- Seal the perimeter with flexible caulk where the maker allows it.
- Upstairs laundry: a leak travels. Think about the ceiling below.
Common questions
What is the best flooring for a laundry room?
Tile or vinyl plank, especially glue-down vinyl. They handle water and heavy appliances best. Avoid laminate and hardwood near the washer.
Can you put a washer and dryer on vinyl plank?
Usually yes, but check the product's installation guide: some floating floors limit heavy fixed loads. Glue-down vinyl avoids that concern. Protect the floor when sliding appliances in.
Who's writing this: Rose and Thorn Flooring is a flooring company in Surrey, BC. We install floors for a living, so yes, we'd love to do yours. But nobody pays us to say nice things about a product, and we don't earn commission from any brand. If something here is wrong or out of date, text us at 604-716-4160 and we'll fix it.