Is Hardwood Flooring Suitable for the Kitchen?

Hardwood floors are classic, and such timeless beauty is available in many colors and finishes. Many consider it the ultimate choice for floors because no matter what, hardwood just won’t go out of style. But is it a good match for the kitchen?

Hardwood is superbly desirable because of its natural beauty, warm appeal, and durability. It is at a popularity level that other flooring materials can hardly reach. However, the kitchen is moist and hot, with properties that affect wood, causing it to shrink, swell, and warp.

Hardwood can last decades with proper maintenance, retaining its elegance and lifespan. For those who have asked us, “Can you put hardwood floors in the kitchen?” the answer is yes. Wood is a fantastic-looking natural resource whose durability suits kitchens, too. It is also a great choice if you have hardwood floors in the rest of the rooms because the continuity and flow across them create a unique feeling of relaxation. But there are different things to look into.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing Hardwood Flooring for the Kitchen

Not all kitchens can do justice to hardwood, depending on their location. Wood floors in the kitchen are not apt for every situation.

Although durability makes it perfect for areas with heavy footfall, all kinds of spills and occasional utensil drops on the floor can gradually kill the polished look and pristine feeling of your floor.

So, you may want to avoid hardwood flooring if your kitchen is prone to excessive spills or falling dishes. But you’d be surprised to know even wooden kitchen floors with dings and dents may show the charm of an often-used and well-loved space.

If you have decided to install a hardwood floor in your kitchen, opt for a matte finish. Alternatively, you can choose reclaimed wood flooring. Also, consider the kitchen’s position to make better decisions. For instance, if it is the area you access directly from the garage, pool deck, or garden, damp and dirt would get onto the floor every day and harm its surface.

While you can refinish damaged wooden floors, why invest money unnecessarily when you can choose better to begin with?

How to Protect Hardwood Floors in the Kitchen?

• Place Rugs Strategically

Do not underestimate the power of rugs. Place them near the entrances and in front of drippy places. These will help protect your floor from dirt and grime getting in from the outside and accompanying your shoes to eat away your floor’s shine.

The rugs you place in areas where water is used, such as the sink, dishwasher, and refrigerator, also prevent your wooden floor from water exposure. Do not forget to place a rug under your kitchen table for spills and crumbs.

• Put Felt Protectors Under the Furniture

Felt protectors are inexpensive accessories for your chairs and tables that help keep your floors safe. They are especially beneficial if you move your chairs every day. The pull and push movement in the same place starts to damage the spot. All you have to do is replace them every 3-6 months.

• Lift Heavy Things and Not Scoot Them

Use extreme caution whenever there is a need to remove the refrigerator or any other heavy object. Dragging heavy items across wooden flooring can damage it severely.

Place a thin plywood sheet on the floor and slide the item onto it instead of scooting it across the floor. Always lift heavy items instead of hauling them.

• Vacuum or Sweep Regularly

Regular cleaning is essential for keeping the kitchen wooden floor looking beautiful. You need not vacuum or sweep the entire floor daily, but the high spots need cleaning because dirt and crumbs accumulate there. Possibly keep a separate vacuum for the kitchen for convenience.

• Avoid Moisture

Moisture is bad for wood floors, so ensure wiping off wet spills immediately. Do not use a wet mop or steam floor cleaner to clean hardwood floors. Instead, use a damp pad to prevent leaving moisture behind.

Quick Note: The kitchen is the heart of your home! No matter what you do, water spills and splashes are bound to happen! So, for an added layer of protection, make sure to be aware of how to seal hardwood floors effectively to avoid moisture absorption or water seepage.

Conclusion

The best flooring option for your kitchen is the one that looks the way you want and offers a feeling you like, suiting your home and lifestyle in terms of durability and maintenance. Find a balance between all the aspects of hardwood kitchen flooring and find your perfect match.