How to Care For Laminate Floors

The great news is that laminate flooring is very easy to clean and care for. Laminate floor is built to stand up to abrasion and it also boasts the refinement and shine of hardwood flooring, without the condition of regular waxing and polishing. You only need a vacuum cleaner, a dry mop, and a damp towel for taking care of your laminate flooring.

The Basics

The primary enemy of laminate flooring is dirt. This component leads to fine scratches which can make the floor look dull and used. Ammonia and water, or vinegar or any other window cleaning product are the best ways to clean your laminate floors. You firstly need to sweep or vacuum up loose dirt, and after mist the floor with your cleaner and a mop. Later you need to buff it up using a terry cloth towel. Quite effective are also microfiber pads. Check the manufacturer’s recommendation for cleaning procedures.

We prepared a list of helpful tips and tricks to keep your laminate flooring as good as new:

• In order to remove dirt, grit and debris, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft flooring attachment, a broom, a slightly damp cloth or mop.
• To prevent possible scratching, add glides or cushion protectors under chairs and table legs.
• You can also keep away dirt by putting floor mats and foot brushes at all outside doorway entrances.
• For a better evaporation rate, damp mop using warm water.
• When mopping, change water as necessary to keep clean.
• Avoid any standing fluids on the floor while damp mopping.
• Do not saturate the floor and wipe up spills immediately.
• Do not use floor polish or wax products because this process leaves a film on the floor and causes it to attract more dirt and leave streaks and footprints.
• Try to avoid soap-based and abrasive cleaners, scouring powder, citrus oil products and steel wool because they tend to affect the floor’s décor layer and damage the finish.
• Never sand, lacquer, or refinish your laminate flooring surfaces.

Advanced Tips

Cleaning spots on laminate flooring can be a bit tricky so here are some tips on spot cleaning:

• Use a neutral cleaner on a clean light colored cloth in order to remove oil, paint, permanent marker, tar and rubber heel marks.
• Alcohol or a nail polish remover containing acetone can also be used.
• Warm water could be used in order to remove blood, juice, wine, beer, soda pop and pasta sauce stains.
• Use a neutral cleaner with a light colored cloth if needed.

Harden with ice and then scrape very gently if you wish to remove candle wax or chewing gum. Wipe the rest with warm water and a clean cloth.