Laminate floors shouldn't be cleaned like regular floors. Any stains on your laminate floors won't be fixed by refinishing; you have to clean your floors in a specific way.
It is absolutely essential to clean your laminate floors in the right way. If you don't, you run the risk of having to deal with costly replacements. Continue reading to learn about these tips on cleaning laminate flooring, whether you have brand-new floors or simply want your current surface to look as good as the day it was installed.
Follow Cleaning Instructions
Consult the manufacturer's instructions for your floors before you start cleaning. If your instructions say you shouldn't use a certain product or tool, definitely listen to the advice.When you do begin to clean with an appropriate laminate floor cleaner, use the liquid sparingly. Only apply a small amount to a rag or mop before proceeding to clean the floors.
Don't use cleaners with oil in them because they may damage the flooring. They may also cause streaks.
Don't Use Abrasive Cleaners or Tools
Don't use abrasive cleaners on laminate floors. Abrasive cleaners have the potential to scratch or damage your flooring. If you need to sweep dust and debris, only use a dust mop or a broom with bristles that are soft. Only use a vacuum attachment without a rotating brush to avoid damaging the laminate when vacuuming.The best cleaning techniques are readily available for challenging stains like candle wax or ink. To remove chewing gum and candle wax after it has hardened, use a plastic knife, scraper, or credit card.
Apply a plastic bag of ice to the substances. Rubbing alcohol can be used to remove crayon marks, paint, ink, and nail polish.
Make a DIY Laminate Floor Cleaner
Did you know that you can make your own DIY laminate floor cleaner right at home? All you have to do is mix dish soap with hot water.Want another option? Mix a gallon of hot water with a cup of white vinegar if your floor has a light film or waxy buildup on it. The film will be broken down by vinegar, a natural cleaning agent, without harming the laminate surface.
When using DIY laminate floor cleaner, never let water pool on the floor and keep your mop just slightly damp
Mop Frequently
Mop your laminate floors every two months to keep them looking new. Microfiber damp mops are gentle enough to be used on laminate floors. Simply wring out a regular mop until it is nearly dry if you intend to use one.Use a teaspoon of clear, unscented dish soap in a gallon of water as a substitute for laminate floor cleaner if you don't have any on hand. It also works with a teaspoon of baby shampoo in a gallon of water.
Once you have your cleaning solution, it's time to mop your laminate floors! Dip your mop into the solution and then strain the excess liquid before mopping. Use a circular motion on your floors to reduce the streaking, and make sure to re-dip the mop and strain out the filth.
Use the Damp Mopping Method
Damp mopping is the best method for mopping floors that are laminate.Avoid overly wet mopping because this can cause water to seep behind baseboards. Use two buckets of water when mopping: one for clean water and one for dirty water.
Streaks on your floors are typically caused by using a dirty mop head to clean them. Instead of sweeping, vacuum first before mopping because vacuuming is much better at gathering debris.
Just make sure to change your vacuum to a soft brush setting. A laminate floor can be scratched by standard brushes' rotating bristles.
Protect the Surface
Use shielding products to guard against scratches and wear on laminate flooring.Add furniture pads under the legs of chairs and tables to prevent future scratches, especially if they are moved frequently. Rugs and floor mats, especially near entrances, will help stop wear and tear as well.
Additionally, trim your pet's nails regularly! The nails on your dog or cat could damage your laminate floor. Trimming your pet's nails will stop them from scratching your floor as they roam around.
Use a Welcome Mat
Naturally, encouraging your family and guests to wipe their feet and preventing mud and dirt from being tracked into your home is one of the most obvious advantages of installing entrance mats at each door in your house.Outside dirt that is tracked inside not only makes your floor dirty but also has the potential to harm the floor. Grit, such as that found on a dirty shoe sole, is one of your laminate floor's biggest enemies because it dulls, scratches, and causes other harm.
A welcome mat that allows guests to thoroughly wipe their shoes off will stop dirt in its tracks.
Use These Tips for Cleaning Laminate Flooring
Despite having a hardwood-like appearance, laminate floors cannot be refinished and are challenging to clean at times. Maintaining your laminate flooring is worth your time and effort because if it becomes worn down, it will need to be replaced. These tips for cleaning laminate flooring will help prolong the life and appearance of your floors!Are you thinking of getting laminate flooring installed? Click here to get a free in-home estimate on new flooring for your home.
