Vinyl: A budget-friendly choice that's perfect for busy cooks and homes with kids prone to spills, vinyl is easy to clean, waterproof, and stain-proof. Felt or foam back also gives vinyl cushion to make it more comfortable in rooms where you'll do a lot of standing, like the kitchen. Even more, the softer surface can protect glasses and dishes from breaking when dropped. Choosing a top-quality sheet vinyl (rather than peel-and-stick tiles) will reduce seams where water can seep under. Experienced DIYers can tackle vinyl installation, but professional help is advised for large kitchens that will require piecing seams. Also, vinyl emits volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can affect indoor air quality.

Tile: When it comes to giving your kitchen a clean and classic look that's also extremely durable, you can't beat tile floors. Ceramic tile is stain-resistant and sealed tile and grout are also water-resistant, making it a great choice for the kitchen. To avoid slip-and-fall accidents in the kitchen, especially in a home with children or older adults, it's smart to choose a tile that is certified slip-resistant. On the downside, tile is cold underfoot, provides a hard walking surface, and dropped glasses or dishes are unlikely to survive. Also, tile can be tricky to install for even seasoned DIYers.