Flooring can go through a lot in a day. From foot traffic to spills, it needs to be durable and easy to clean to maintain a fresh look and healthy atmosphere. But should it also be eco-friendly? It should if you’re committed to making a minimal environmental impact. Here are seven types of eco-friendly flooring to consider and why it’s a better option for you and the earth.

What Makes Flooring Eco-Friendly

When it comes to categorizing something as environmentally friendly, the materials, manufacturing process, and level of maintenance are all considered.

Materials

• Look for renewable resources such as bamboo, cork, and sustainably sourced hardwood.
• Plastic bottles and old carpet can be recycled into new flooring materials to reduce waste.
• Ensure no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other harmful chemicals were used in production.
• Natural materials like stone and clay tile can have a longer lifespan when properly maintained.

Manufacturing

• Wood that’s responsibly harvested often comes with specific certification from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
• Manufacturing processes that require less energy creates less of a carbon footprint.
• Recycling and reusing materials reduces waste.

Maintenance

• Durable materials require less maintenance and extends its lifespan.
• Well-maintained products resist wear and tear, reducing the need for replacement.
• Being easier to clean requires less energy and potentially harmful products for upkeep.

Even with all these factors, there are a number of flooring materials that are considered to be more eco-friendly than others.

Types of Eco-Friendly Flooring

If you want a durable, low-maintenance floor that makes a minimal environmental impact, here are your options:

1. Bamboo. This renewable source is harder than many hardwoods.
2. Cork. Not only is it renewable, but it’s naturally antimicrobial too.
3. Linoleum. Often made from natural materials like linseed oil, cork dust, and wood flour.
4. Reclaimed Wood. Recycled wood from buildings and other sources gives the space a unique aesthetic while giving the materials a second life.
5. Natural Stone. Durable and long-lasting, with a natural look and feel.
6. Porcelain Tile. Made from natural clays, it also has a long lifespan and can be recycled.
7. Wool Carpet: A natural, renewable, and biodegradable option.

Once you’ve chosen your eco-friendly flooring, you can further maintain its natural look and extend its lifespan by keeping it clean. JDog Carpet Cleaning & Floor Care offers a range of services for residential and commercial customers. From hardwood to tile, we consider the type of flooring before ensuring it’s cleaned in a safe and effective way. Call 844-GET-JDOG to learn more about how we can help maintain your eco-friendly floor.