Bamboo Flooring is water-resistant so it can get wet from a puddle, but it cannot withstand a flood. So, you can safely install Bamboo Flooring in entryways, dining rooms, kitchens, and other places that may be subject to wet feet or a spill. But you can’t install bamboo outside or in places where it will constantly get wet.

Bamboo and Wood Flooring Absorb Moisture from the Air

All wood and bamboo flooring materials are hygroscopic. That means the fibers absorb moisture from the environment.

When you first buy your flooring, it is important to acclimate it for 5 to 7 days before installing it. (Read more about how to prepare for bamboo flooring installation.)

The moisture content of flooring continues to drop until it matches the amount of moisture in the air. That’s the equilibrium moisture content of the flooring and it changes with the temperature and relative humidity of the surrounding air.

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Bamboo is more structurally stable than hardwood, but it still is impacted by moisture – just not as much. For example, Ambient strand woven bamboo planks can stand up to a puddle for up to 24 hours without damage thanks to its proprietary Accuseal finish. In the same amount of time, hardwood flooring swells, cups, and warps.

Can You Install Bamboo Flooring in the Bathroom?

People frequently want to know if they can install bamboo flooring in a bathroom. It depends. If the bathroom contains a tub that will be used frequently, you are better off with a tile floor. Splashing water may create puddles that go unnoticed. If the puddle sits for more than 24 hours, you might have a problem.

You can install bamboo in a bathroom with a shower because the only moisture will be from wet feet.

Go ahead and feel free to install that beautiful bamboo flooring over your radiant floor heat for toasty toes in the winter. When you follow the manufacturer’s directions, bamboo can be installed over radiant heat.

Can You Install Bamboo Flooring in the Kitchen?

Absolutely, you can install bamboo flooring in the kitchen! What kind of cook are you that pours gallons of water on your kitchen floor?

Honestly, bamboo flooring is moisture-resistant so the steam and droplets of water that may hit the floor dissipate quickly.

Because bamboo is much harder than hardwood flooring, it is perfect for areas with high traffic, like the kitchen.

Where Not to Install Bamboo

Bamboo provides natural beauty, but don’t expose it to nature. That means no outdoor installations. Keep it out of your gazebos and off your patios and decks.

Please don’t put it in any room with a pet washing station. Pet washing stations are increasingly popular in mud rooms and laundry rooms. If you’ve ever bathed a dog, there’s a LOT of splashing that goes on and that’s not great for any wood flooring. Even the Girl with the Dogs has a tile floor for her dog washing station.

Keep solid bamboo out of the basement. Only install solid bamboo above grade. Engineered click-lock bamboo flooring can be floated in basements, however.

All Good Things in Moderation

Like all good things, bamboo flooring can stand up to water in moderation. Remember that water-resistant means not damaged by spills and puddles – no natural fiber flooring can withstand a flood or standing water.

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