Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because there is a wide variety of styles and it’s relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Laminate tends to be installed as a floating system, with planks that connect to each other but aren’t secured to the subfloor. For this reason, extra care is needed to prevent the planks from swelling and warping.
Regular Care for Your Laminate Floors
-
Laminate floors should be regularly swept or dust mopped. You can use a fluffy, textured microfiber dust mop with a washable mop head. You can also use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner (not the beater bar). Spills and muddy footprints or paw prints should be wiped up immediately. Do not let water sit on your floor to prevent possible damage.
Mopping Laminate Floors
-
We do NOT recommend wet mopping. Instead it is recommended to dry (dust) mop and occasionally spray mop. Before dry (dust) and spray mopping your laminate floors, vacuum or sweep thoroughly. Use a well wrung out damp microfiber, cotton, or terrycloth mop and one of the recommended products below. Start in the furthest corner of the room and work towards your exit. Spray the solution onto the mop pad, and then mop using long, even strokes with your mop. Change or rinse and wring out your microfiber mop head as necessary. Allow your floors to dry thoroughly before you use them.
Laminate Floor Precautions
-
Steam cleaners will cause laminate planks to swell, warp, or gap. They should be avoided.
-
Do not use soap or oil based detergents or “mop and shine” products as they can leave a dull film on your laminate.
-
Do not use scouring products as they can scratch your floors.
-
Use protector pads on furniture legs so that they will not scratch the laminate.
-
Put high quality mats both inside and outside entrance doors to reduce dirt, debris, and moisture being brought inside.
Troubleshooting
-
Acetone based nail polish remover can be used on stubborn stains (paint, oil, markers, etc). Wipe with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
-
Wax or gummy substances should be hardened with ice and then very gently scraped off with a plastic scraper or even a credit card.
Recommended Products
-
DuraSeal Hardwood Floor Cleaner
-
Bruce Hardwood and Laminate Floor Cleaner Spray
-
Bella Hardwood Floor Cleaner
Useful Tools
-
O-Cedar Dual Action Microfiber Flip Mop Damp/Dry All Surface Mop
-
O-Cedar Easy Wring Spin Mop & Bucket System
-
Handy Home Products SKrAPr Surface Scraper – 2 pcs
Sources
By Laura Reznicki and Jadina Summerfield