Can You Use Cork Flooring in a Kitchen?

Cork flooring is becoming more and more popular every day. And for good reason: it’s unique, it’s practical, it’s eco-friendly, and it’s pretty to look at. 

Yet, people often feel unsure whether using cork for their kitchen flooring is a good idea.  

Not to mention all the spills, and grease, and catastrophes caused by trying to balance an unlikely number of plates filled with snacks after a quick assault on the fridge. Will a cork flooring be able to handle the storms?

In this article, we’ll take a look at the positives and negatives of a cork kitchen flooring, as well as the most important tips for cleaning and maintenance that you should know.

Is cork flooring good for kitchens?

In a word: yes! The characteristics of cork make it an excellent option for your kitchen flooring.

Firstly, cork is naturally resistant to liquids. This is not hard to prove: we only need to look at a wine bottle. Impermeability should be one of the first considerations in our mind when it comes to the kitchen floor. 

The fact that you can wipe away all the spills and stains easily and without long-term damage is crucial, and it makes cork a very practical and low-maintenance option for busy kitchens.

Another important point is that cork is fantastic when it comes to insulating from noise and absorbing the shock of impacts. This is because it is composed of cells that are filled with air, acting as a muffler that absorbs both shock waves and sound waves. 

You will be able to cook in peace and quiet, and not disturb anyone else either. This cushioning effect also makes cork more comfortable than a more rigid material to stand on for extended periods, reducing fatigue and strain on the legs and feet.

Those little air-filled cells are really useful in keeping a pleasant temperature in your kitchen as well! They work like minute air-traps, creating a barrier against temperature transfer and helping to keep your kitchen warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

No more stepping on a cold, cruel tile floor on winter mornings. And on summer days, cork will be your ally in keeping everything nice and cool.

Those who worry about having their beautiful kitchen invaded by hordes of ugly microbes and fungi full of bad intentions – as they should – will be pleased to know that cork has, in fact, natural anti-microbial properties. 

Chemically, this is due to a substance called suberin, which combats bacteria, mould, and allergens, ensuring that these floorings are very hygienic and helping to keep your kitchen clean and healthy.

Last, but not least, cork is an environmentally conscious choice. It comes from solely the bark of the cork oak tree, which regenerates over time, like a sheep’s wool. Since its harvest does not harm the tree, cork is a renewable and sustainable resource.

The Cons of Cork Flooring

Regarding durability and resistance, these floors last for decades, when properly cared for. Mainly, always be careful to follow these two general rules:

• Avoid dragging heavy furniture or appliances across the floor, as this can result in scuffs and dents.
• It is also important to promptly clean up spills, as exposure to liquid for too long can damage cork. 

Regular maintenance, in the meantime, is very basic, as explained below.

How to Care for Cork Flooring in a Kitchen

These simple steps will keep your flooring beautiful and in good shape:

Cleaning and Maintenance

To clean cork flooring, you should simply sweep or vacuum regularly, to remove dirt and debris. 

We also recommend an occasional damp mopping with a mild detergent appropriate for cork. However, avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface. 

Finally, as mentioned above, wipe up any spills as soon as possible, to prevent them from seeping into the cork. 

Preventing and Repairing Damage

A useful precaution is placing protective pads under furniture legs. Also, place rugs in highly trafficked areas to minimise wear and tear, and near the sink, to absorb spills. 

Ideally, you should avoid walking in high heels and pressure from sharp objects on the surface of the floor, as that can cause scratches or dents.

If there is damage to your flooring, nonetheless, you can repair it by treating the affected area with a cork filler and sanding it down until smooth.

Conclusion

Looking for something that’s durable and stylish, not to mention eco-friendly? We have the perfect choice! 

A cork flooring’s insulating qualities make it a natural fit for a kitchen. Besides, cork is gentle on your legs and feet while you cook. A quality hard to beat in a cooking partner.

In return, be gentle with it by not forgetting our recommendations. As with any other material, follow proper installation practices, do regular maintenance, and take precautions against accidents.