Surface cleaning
How to clean laminate floor
Are your laminate floors losing their shine, longing for a touch of brilliance? Fear not, for we are about to reveal the secrets of achieving flawlessly clean and radiant laminate surface. Prepare to embark on a transformative journey that will leave your surfaces gleaming and your living spaces exuding timeless beauty.
Continue reading to unveil the enchanting process that will make your laminate floors shine like never before!
What are laminate floors
Laminate flooring is composed of many layers of synthetic materials and comes in a variety of types. It can be installed over almost any type of existing floor, and requires minimal maintenance.
During installation, the flooring is cut to fit the room, and then the pieces are snapped together, or glued down, depending on the type of laminate chosen.
Other surface types
Do you have a different surface? Read our blog posts on how to clean granite surface, cement tiles, glass tiles, vinyl floor, laminate floor, hardwood floor, terracotta, cork surface, metal tiles, porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles, limestone, grout, soapstone, marble, travertine, slate or quartz.
Benefits of having laminate floors
Cost: Laminate flooring is much more cost effective than traditional hardwood flooring. You can get a similar look to hardwood, but at a fraction of the price. Plus, the installation process is much simpler and takes less time.
Style: Laminate flooring comes in a variety of stylish designs and colors to match any home’s decor.
Durability: The surface of laminate flooring is much more durable than hardwood, making it more resistant to scratches, stains, fading, and wear and tear.
Maintenance: The maintenance of laminate floors is much easier than hardwood and requires only regular vacuuming and occasional damp mopping.
Disadvantages to having laminate floor
Potential for damage from water and other liquids can be an issue, as laminate flooring is not entirely waterproof.
Additionally, some laminate flooring is made with chemical-based glues and adhesives, as well as heat-sensitive materials, which can be challenging to clean and maintain.
How to clean laminate floor
- Remove loose dirt: Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the floor. Avoid using a beater bar attachment as it may damage the laminate surface.
- Damp mop with water and vinegar solution: Mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle or bucket. Lightly mist or dampen a microfiber mop or cloth with the solution (avoid excessive moisture). Then, mop the floor in sections, working your way across the room. Make sure not to saturate the floor with excessive water.
- Spot clean tough stains: For stubborn stains or spills, you can use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for laminate floors. Apply a small amount of the cleaner directly to the stain and gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge. Wipe away any residue with a damp cloth.
- Dry the floor: After mopping, use a dry microfiber mop or cloth to remove any remaining moisture from the floor. This step is important to prevent water from seeping into the laminate and causing damage.
- Buff to shine: If you’re craving that extra touch of brilliance for your laminate floors, you can consider using a laminate floor polish. Many laminate floor manufacturers have their own special polishes designed just for this purpose. If you decide to go for it, remember to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. They’ll provide you with the best guidance on how to apply the polish and achieve that desired lustrous shine.
What to avoid when cleaning laminate floors
Chemicals
- Abrasive cleaners: Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch or dull the laminate surface.
- Bleach: Avoid using bleach or any bleach-based products, as they can discolor or damage the laminate.
- Ammonia: Stay away from ammonia-based cleaners, as they can cause the laminate to fade or become discolored.
- Wax or polish: Do not use wax or polish on laminate floors, as they can leave a residue or make the surface slippery.
Tools
- Scrub brushes or scouring pads: Avoid using rough or abrasive tools that can scratch the laminate surface.
- Steam cleaners: Do not use steam cleaners on laminate floors, as excessive moisture can cause the planks to warp or delaminate.
- Excess water: Avoid using excessive amounts of water, as standing water can seep into the seams and damage the floor.
- Wire brushes or steel wool: Stay away from tools that have metal bristles or fibers, as they can scratch or damage the laminate.
How to maintain laminate floors
Maintaining your surfaces is essential to keeping them looking new and lasting longer.
Use eco-friendly, specialized cleaners for laminate flooring to avoid any damage to the surface. These cleaners are designed specifically for this type of flooring and can be found in most stores.
Clean spills as soon as they happen.
Use felt pads on the bottom of furniture to prevent scratches and dents. Use rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to protect the floor from dirt and debris. Refrain from dragging furniture or heavy objects across laminate flooring.
Use a non-abrasive cleaner to mop the floors. Don’t damp your mop too much to prevent water damage. Try to avoid using wax-based cleaning products.
Keep pet nails trimmed to avoid scratches. Sweep and mop regularly to remove dirt and dust. Vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove dirt and dust from hard-to-reach places.
Replace any planks as soon as possible. Apply a durable finish. This will help protect the floor from scratches and other damage.
How to remove scuffs from laminate floors
Now that you know how to maintain your laminate floors, it’s time to learn how to remove scuffs from them.
Use a mild dishwashing soap and a vinegar mixture to make a cleaning solution.
Mix 4 parts warm water to 1 part dishwashing soap and 1 part white vinegar.
Dip a cloth into the solution and lightly scrub the scuff until it begins to fade away. Gently wipe away the soap mixture with a dry cloth. Use a soft brush or a microfiber mop to further clean the area. Dry the area with a few drying cloths and the scuff should be gone.
Conclusion
Congratulations on mastering the art of cleaning laminate floors! We hope this article has equipped you with valuable tips and tricks. If you ever need professional assistance or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact us today and let’s make your laminate floors shine like new!
