Yes with the right product and prep. Laundries and wet areas need flooring that shrugs off spills, splashes, and the odd leak, so vinyl (SPC/LVT) and hybrid are the go-to choices, with tile as the ultra-durable option. Laminate is best avoided in genuinely wet spots. The secret is choosing a water-friendly floor and sealing the edges and around appliances properly. Here’s how to do it right.
We supply and install Engineered Timber Flooring Melbourne.
Yes, With the Right Product and Prep
A laundry isn’t a bathroom, but it does see water – splashes at the sink, drips from the machine, the occasional leak. So you want a floor that handles moisture without swelling, plus a tidy install that keeps water from sneaking underneath. Get those two things right and you’ll have a floor that lasts.
What a Laundry / Wet Area Demands from Flooring
- Water resistance – it will get wet at some point.
- Easy cleaning – spills and lint wipe up fast.
- Stability under an appliance – it sits under a heavy, vibrating washer.
- Sealed edges – so any water stays on top, not underneath.
Discover our top product categories:
- European Oak Flooring Melbourne
- Australian Hardwood Flooring Melbourne
- Parquet Flooring Melbourne
- Hybrid Flooring Melbourne
- Laminate Flooring Melbourne
Best Flooring Options for Laundries (Ranked)
| Option | Suitability | Note |
| Tile | Excellent | Most water-tolerant, hard underfoot |
| Vinyl (SPC/LVT) | Excellent | Waterproof, comfy, budget-friendly |
| Hybrid | Very good | Waterproof surface, seal the edges |
| Laminate | Avoid | Swells if it gets properly wet |
Can You Use Hybrid or Laminate in a Laundry?
Hybrid – yes. Its waterproof surface handles everyday laundry life well; just make sure the edges and the area around the machine are sealed. Laminate – not recommended. Laminate is the one that swells and bubbles when water sits, and a laundry is exactly the kind of room where that happens. If you love the laminate look, choose hybrid or vinyl in a matching style instead.
Installation & Waterproofing Must-Dos
- Seal the perimeter and around pipes with silicone.
- Make sure the subfloor is level and dry before laying.
- Use proper transitions at the doorway.
- Leave the correct expansion gaps so the floor can move without lifting.
- Check the washing machine connections aren’t leaking.
Handpicked floor designs to match all styles and interiors:
- Tassie Oak Flooring Melbourne
- Engineered Blackbutt Flooring Melbourne
- Jarrah Hardwood Melbourne
- Spotted Gum Flooring Melbourne
- Herringbone Timber Flooring Melbourne
- Chevron Timber Floors Melbourne
Flooring to Avoid in Wet Areas
- Laminate – swells with standing water.
- Solid timber – moves and cups with moisture.
- Carpet – holds damp and can grow mould.
The laundry is a small room that causes big headaches when the wrong floor goes in. At Flooring Expert, we help you pick a properly water-friendly floor and make sure it’s sealed and installed to handle spills, leaks, and a heavy washer. Book a free buying consultation and get it right the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best flooring for a laundry?
Tile or vinyl (SPC/LVT) are top picks; hybrid is also very good with sealed edges.
Can I use hybrid flooring in a laundry?
Yes – its waterproof surface suits laundries. Just seal the edges and around the machine.
Is laminate okay in a laundry?
It’s best avoided – laminate swells when water sits on it.
Can flooring go under a washing machine?
Yes, as long as it’s stable and water-resistant, and there are no leaks.
Do I need to seal the edges?
Yes – sealing the perimeter and around pipes stops water getting underneath.
Will a leak ruin my floor?
A quick leak on vinyl or hybrid is usually fine; a big or long leak can still reach the subfloor.
Is vinyl or tile better for a laundry?
Tile is the most water-tolerant; vinyl is warmer, softer, and often cheaper. Both are great.
What flooring should I avoid in wet areas?
Laminate, solid timber, and carpet.
Related guides
- Differences Between Commercial and Residential Flooring Guide
- Clear Signs It’s Time to Repair or Replace Your Flooring
- Pet-Friendly Choices 🐶 Best Flooring for Dogs and Wood Floors
