Laminate floors are a top choice for households thanks to their durability and ease of maintenance. Here's everything you need to know to keep them looking their best.
Laminate floors are easy to maintain when you know the right approach. Here's what to keep in mind before you start.
Always start by sweeping or vacuuming before you mop. This removes loose dirt and debris so you're not pushing it around or scratching the surface when you move on to the next step. Sweep in several directions to pick up as much as possible.
If you're using a vacuum, make sure the beater bar is turned off before you run it over your laminate. The beater bar is designed for carpet and can scratch or scuff a hard floor surface.
Once the loose debris is cleared, damp mop using an approved laminate floor cleaner. Be sure that the mop isn't too wet. Laminate is made from wood, and excess moisture can cause warping or damage, especially if water seeps into the seams.
Use only as much cleaner as needed to coat the floor, and start at the back of the room so you can work your way toward the exit without stepping on the clean surface. Your floors should dry within one to two minutes. If they're taking longer, you're likely using too much liquid.
With so many options available, choosing the right cleaning tools can feel overwhelming. Here's the best ones for the job.
A broom and a vacuum are two tools that will help keep your laminate floors fresh and clean. Most brooms and vacuums will work well with laminate floors to remove dust, dander, and loose debris.
A microfiber mop is also an excellent tool that can be used to make laminate floors look their best. This type of mop is ideal because it doesn't spread excess water over the floors, which can cause them to become damaged.
The best cleaner for your laminate is whatever your flooring manufacturer recommends. Following those guidelines ensures you're not using anything that could dull the finish or void your warranty.
The best way to keep your laminate floors looking their best is by preventing damage before it happens. A few simple habits can go a long way toward protecting your investment.
Place doormats inside and outside your home to give everyone a place to wipe their feet. By removing mud and dirt from shoes, there will be less dirt tracked through your home.
After wiping off your shoes, consider leaving them near the door. If you feel comfortable, ask your guests to do the same. High heels in particular can dent or scratch laminate, so put them on right before you leave and take them off as soon as you get home.
Always place furniture pads or protectors under the legs of large furniture. If you need to move something, pick it up rather than sliding it. Sliding heavy furniture across laminate is one of the fastest ways to cause scratches or gouges that are difficult to fix.
Wipe up spills as soon as they happen. Laminate and standing liquid are not a good combination. The longer moisture sits on the surface or works its way into the seams, the greater the risk of warping or damage.
If you have pets, keep their nails trimmed. Long nails can scratch and scuff laminate over time, especially in high-traffic areas where pets tend to run or turn quickly.
Maintain laminate flooring by sweeping or vacuuming frequently, damp mopping as needed with a manufacturer-recommended cleaner, and staying ahead of spills and surface scratches. Use doormats at entryways, keep pet nails trimmed, place furniture pads under heavy pieces, and wipe up spills right away. Laminate flooring is durable, but consistent habits are the best way to protect it long term.
It's best to avoid Clorox wipes on laminate floors. While they're convenient for quick cleanups, the disinfecting chemicals in Clorox wipes can strip the finish on laminate over time, leaving the surface looking dull or worn. For everyday cleaning, stick to a damp microfiber mop and a cleaner recommended by your flooring manufacturer.
The best option is a cleaner recommended by your flooring manufacturer, applied with a damp microfiber mop. If you don't have a manufacturer recommendation, look for a pH-neutral cleaner formulated specifically for laminate. Avoid anything with wax, oil soap, or abrasive ingredients, as these can dull the finish or leave residue behind.
Avoid steam mops, soaking wet mops, wax-based cleaners, oil soap, and abrasive scrubbers. Steam and excess water are particularly damaging because they can work their way into the seams and cause the planks to warp or swell. Stick to products specifically formulated for laminate and always wring out your mop thoroughly before it touches the floor.
As your trusted flooring partner, we're here to help you find laminate flooring that looks great and holds up to real life. Whether you're outfitting a busy family room, a high-traffic hallway, or a space that needs something durable and easy to maintain, there's a laminate option built for it. Don't wait to browse styles, compare options, and find the perfect fit for your home.
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