If you have young children or are expectant parents, making the best decision for your child?s well-being is a top priority. And choosing the best flooring for his or her nursery is no exception. There are many suitable options to address specific concerns, such as low maintenance, ease of cleaning, safety and health. Floors take a lot of abuse and knowing the benefits and drawbacks to the most popular flooring types can help you choose the solution that?s best for you.
Carpet
Carpet is soft, comfortable and forgiving. It is also a natural insulator, so it helps absorb sound, can prevent slips and provides extra cushioning for falls. Carpet comes in a variety of styles and colors and can make a room feel warm and inviting. When considering carpet, there are three main types to choose from: cut pile, loop pile and cut-and-loop pile. Cut pile creates a softer surface, as the loop tips are cut evenly across the top. Loop pile wears better than other carpeting types, because the tips loop back and attach to the backing and have no tip exposure. Cut-and-loop pile combines features of both, creating a surface pattern that helps hide dirt and wear. Although carpet may seem like the obvious choice for a nursery, it does have its drawbacks.
Wall-to-wall carpeting is hard to clean and is not ideal for those who suffer from allergies, as it is a haven for dust mites, mold and mildew. Carpet also contains higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC), which can lead to health effects in children who have asthma or are more sensitive to airborne allergens.? If carpet is a must, then look for types that are made from natural VOC-free materials, such as wool, cotton, sisal or jute. ?These will prevent your child from exposure to the chemicals found in synthetic carpeting. Carpet should be vacuumed at least once a week to keep dust and dirt at a minimum.? A deep cleaning is recommended every 12-18 months.
Hardwood
Hardwood lasts longer and is easier to clean than carpeting. It has a classic look that never goes out of style. It is fairly durable but, like any floor, is subject to wear and tear that can cause scratches, marks and dents. Additionally, hardwood can warp or stain if spills are not cleaned up promptly. This can be a drawback, given the cost. Hardwood doesn?t collect pet dander, mold, dust or pollen, so it is good for children who suffer from allergies. If you choose hardwood flooring, we recommend purchasing an area rug to protect the floor and provide a more comfortable surface for your baby.
Bamboo
Bamboo is growing in popularity due to its eco-friendly properties. It is a grass, not wood, and is a strong, durable and a less-expensive alternative to hardwood. However, bamboo is one of the least costly green flooring options available. Naturally pest-resistant, it requires no dangerous pesticides, making it completely organic and a good choice for a nursery. It is harder, more scratch-resistant and less prone to warping than hardwood, and it is also stain-resistant. Bamboo flooring can vary dramatically in look and color, depending on how the material is processed, making it a good fit for any room in your home.
Laminate
Laminate floors are a good option for those who like the look of hardwood, but don?t have the budget for it. Laminate floors are compressed pieces of veneer that have the image of a wood species pressed on top. It is fairly durable, scratch-resistant and easy to clean. Laminate flooring is good for children who may suffer from allergies, as dirt, dust, pollen, dander and pet hair can?t penetrate the tight seal. If you choose laminate for a nursery, we recommended opting for newly available low- or zero-emission products.
Vinyl
Vinyl flooring is a popular choice for homes with children. It is water- and stain-resistant, easy to clean, inexpensive and durable, as well as difficult to rip, tear or damage. However, it is not a natural product and not eco-friendly. During the manufacturing process, toxins are released into the atmosphere, and lower quality vinyl floors have volatile organic compounds (VOC) trapped inside them that can seep out for days after installation.
Regardless of the type of flooring you are considering for your baby?s nursery, Hessler Floor Covering?s team of professionals are here to help you find the perfect solution for your home. Hessler Floor Covering offers a vast selection of flooring options in a wide variety of brands. Click here to schedule a free estimate.
