If you’re planning to remodel an existing bathroom or add another bathroom to your house, you’ll have to choose the flooring carefully. Tile is among the best options, but not all tile flooring will work well. Here are some factors to consider when shopping for bathroom flooring.

Material
The tiles on your bathroom floor must be durable enough to handle frequent foot traffic. Since the bathroom floor will inevitably get wet, choose moisture-resistant tiles. Porcelain, ceramic, and vinyl are good options for bathroom tile flooring.

Safety
Smooth tiles can be slippery, especially when they get wet. When you select tiles for your bathroom floor, look for ones that are unlikely to contribute to a slip-and-fall accident. Tiles with a textured finish can provide traction and create a safe environment.

Color
When you shop for bathroom flooring tiles, you’ll find a vast array of colors and patterns. A light color can make a bathroom appear spacious, but light-colored tiles will also show dirt. Tiles with a darker color won’t show dirt and stains as much. Darker tiles can make a bathroom feel cozy, as long as there is enough light. Dark tiles in a poorly-lit bathroom can make the room feel small and uninviting.

Maintenance
Think about your family and your lifestyle when selecting tile flooring. The bathroom will require regular cleaning, especially if you have a large family or young children, or if you frequently have guests over.

If you’re concerned about stains and heavy foot traffic, it can be wise to select tiles with a dark color. Another option is to install tiles with a pattern so dirt and stains won’t be obvious.

Tiles with a textured surface can prevent falls, but they will also trap more dirt than smooth tiles. Textured tile flooring might therefore need frequent cleaning.

Tile Size
With small flooring tiles, you’ll have a wide range of design options. Larger tiles can give your bathroom a more seamless appearance. Another advantage of large tiles is that there will be fewer grout lines where dirt and dust can get trapped. That can make cleaning significantly easier.

Cost
The cost of tile flooring can vary widely depending on the material you choose, the manufacturer, and other factors. Porcelain tile is typically more expensive than ceramic or vinyl.

You might be able to install vinyl tile flooring in your bathroom yourself and save some money, but you shouldn’t install porcelain or ceramic tile unless you have experience and the necessary tools. If not, be sure to factor the cost of professional installation into your budget.