What is linoleum flooring? It’s aptly named as its main ingredient is linseed oil, which is mixed with other natural ingredients like cork dust, wood flour, pine resin, ground limestone, and pigments, and is pressed onto a woven backing made from jute, a natural plant fiber. Because it is solely made of natural materials, it’s 100% biodegradable.

Linoleum gets a bad rap because, in the past, it needed to be resealed regularly with liquid wax. But now, linoleum comes with a durable factory finish, requiring much less maintenance.

Linoleum Pros
Unlike more delicate flooring such as wood floors and laminate floors, it is scratch-resistant, disguising wear and tear to hide its age. Since it is antistatic, water resistant and antimicrobial properties make it super easy to clean, it is a great option for kitchens, bathrooms, and damp basements.

Linoleum Cons
Linoleum is a softer material, so it is at risk of getting dented by furniture legs or heavy appliances. You can mitigate this by keeping the floor clear of heavy items for three days after installation. Linoleum floors are also porous, meaning water can seep through them if spills aren’t cleaned up promptly. The good news is if linoleum is sealed periodically with the right finish, it will stay water-resistant and stain-proof. Linoleum flooring usually requires professional installation, though, which can add to the cost.

Where to Use Linoleum Flooring
Linoleum flooring naturally repels dirt and pet hair and is really easy to clean, so it’s perfect for any high-foot-traffic areas, like your entryway, mudroom, or living room. If dirt seems to follow your kids wherever they go, linoleum is also a great choice for your child’s playroom. And, since linoleum is water-resistant, it also works well in damp basements –just keep in mind that you should clean up spills and floods quickly.