If you plan to remodel your house before you start a family, you're probably thinking about which building materials are good choices for flooring with babies and young children in the house. You have several options, so it's a matter of finding something that's attractive, affordable, and safe for kids. Here are some choices to think over.

Hardwood Flooring

Wood flooring is easy to care for and it looks attractive in any home. It goes with most décor and is suitable for use in a nursery or toddler's bedroom. Some wood flooring is softer than others, so you probably want to avoid the soft types of wood since they scratch easier. Your kids may ride toys or push high chairs across the floor, and you don't want flooring that will scratch easily.

Wood flooring grows with your family, too. If you're concerned that wood is too hard and unsafe for your baby until he or she has mastered walking, you can cover the floor with a rug made of natural fibers that adds cushioning but won't release toxic fumes like some types of synthetic rugs can. When your baby is older, you can remove the rug and leave a smooth playing surface on the floor for your child to enjoy.

Phthalate-Free Vinyl Planks

Vinyl planks are attractive, and they can be installed by locking them together. This eliminates the need to use glue that might give off toxic fumes. If you buy vinyl planks, look for non-toxic luxury vinyl that is certified to not contain phthalates or outgas toxic fumes. Since your child will play on the floor quite a bit, you want the flooring to be safe from any chemicals that could harm your child.

Natural Bamboo or Cork

Bamboo and cork flooring are natural materials like solid hardwood. You won't have worries with plastics or toxic chemicals when you choose these options. These are both less expensive than hardwood, yet they are attractive enough for use throughout your entire home. Cork is softer than wood, which might be appealing when you have toddlers, and it is also naturally hypoallergenic. These two types of flooring are resistant to scratches and water damage, so they are well-suited for busy family life.

Natural Fiber Carpet

If you prefer carpet for your children's bedrooms for warmth in the winter and for padding to protect against falls, then you will have some good options to choose from. Look for carpet made from natural fibers so toxic outgassing isn't a concern. Carpet is a little more work to keep clean since you have to vacuum frequently to keep it free of dust and dust mites. However, the extra effort to clean it might be worth the peace of mind carpet provides if you worry about your toddler falling out of bed.

There are good options for baby and child-friendly flooring that look nice throughout your entire house and are safe for your baby to crawl around on and bang toys on. A business that provides residential flooring can help you choose the right carpet and ease any concerns you may have about the types that are best for a family with young kids and babies.

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