The "carpet or hardwood in the bedroom" debate rages quietly on. Some prefer the added comfort and softness provided by carpet, while others prefer the style, look, and ease of maintenance offered by hardwood floors.
In our view, while there's no single right answer, the debate can be settled by determining what's most important for you and your family. If your priorities include muffling sound and creating a more slip-proof and softer surface, then carpet might be for you. In fact, these are a couple of reasons many people choose to put carpet in the bedrooms of their young children. You can browse a few of the carpeting options we offer right here.
However, if you prefer the look of hardwood floors, like an easy-to-clean surface, and are sensitive to airborne allergens, you may wish to go with hardwood floors in the bedroom. If you'd like to see a few of your options, check out our wide selection of hardwood floors.
Carpet vs Hardwood Cost
Traditional hardwood flooring is undoubtedly a more expensive option than most carpets. However, there are now many forms of engineered hardwood that dramatically lower the cost of this flooring option. Additionally, there are a number of wood-look options like tile, laminate, and vinyl that are both extremely durable and in a friendly cost bracket. At this point, the amount you spend on carpeting or hardwood will depend more on the type of carpet or flooring material you choose than on which route you decide to go.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace Carpet with Hardwood?
While it's impossible to quote an exact price - since the amount you will spend will depend on square footage, room layout, the cost of contractors in your area, and many other factors.
Carpet vs Hardwood Health Benefits
Contrary to popular opinion, when carpets are cleaned and maintained regularly and properly, they are just as healthy as hardwood floors. And while it's true that carpets can tend to trap allergens and other particles in their fibers, hardwood floors are not without their health drawbacks either.
Health Benefits of Carpeting
- Warmth and softness of carpet can help those with arthritis and similar conditions
- Rarely requires the use of chemical treatments
- When regularly cleaned, no evidence that carpet is less healthy than hardwood
Health Benefits of Hardwood
- When properly installed, repels moisture and resists mold
- When properly cleaned, doesn't attract allergens
- Low maintenance requirements helps make sanitary conditions easier to maintain
Is Carpet or Hardwood Better for Allergies?
Simply put, if you have carpet in your home and you suffer from allergies, you should steam clean your carpets at least once or twice per month. If you're able and willing to do this, you should be just fine (at least as far as your flooring is concerned). If you're not able to do this, switching to hardwood flooring might be a better option for you.
