A wet vacuum, like the Shark HydroVac, can also do the trick. These can often pick up everything from dust to crumbs while mopping the surface. Wiping down the floors will remove micro dust particles that can be harder to lift with a dry mop or vacuum. Depending on the intensity of your floor messes, this step can be done every few weeks.
What are some do’s and don’ts for cleaning laminate flooring?
1. Don’t let stains sit on the floor
“If something spills, clean it up immediately,” says Steve Evans, cleaning expert at Memphis Maids. “Use a dense microfiber cloth or a sponge and gently blot until you absorb whatever has spilled.” Tackle stains pronto. Even if your laminate flooring is water-resistant, if you leave liquids for too long, they can potentially damage or discolor the surface.
2. Do use water sparingly
“The number one factor to keep in mind is that laminate floors do not get along with water,” Evans says. “At least, with excessive water. Keep water and liquids to a minimum whenever you’re cleaning these floors.” Even if the flooring material is water-resistant, you don’t want the water to pool or seep through the top layer, which could potentially lead to extra installation costs that come with replacing the laminate planks. That said, a traditional mop bucket is a no-no for laminate floors. If you forget to pick up all the water it can also cause staining or fading.
A spray mop like Bona Spray Mop Air could come in handy because sprays limit the amount of liquid you’re using. Dry the floors immediately.
3. Don’t use abrasive tools
Technology has made a lot of recent laminate flooring materials scratch-resistant, but that doesn’t mean you should reach for abrasive items, like steel wood. You’ll want to use a soft-bristle broom or dust mop to sweep up debris. If you’re vacuuming, be careful to use an attachment without a beater bar or rotating brush, which could scratch the surface.
4. Do skip store-bought cleaning products not labeled for laminate flooring use
Oil-based cleaning products can leave streaks and residue, or damage the protective sealant of the floors. If you use laminate cleaner, do so sparingly and apply it to the mop or microfiber cloth rather than directly to the floor. Never use wax or polishes on laminate floors.
5. Don’t forget about DIY laminate floor cleaners
Make your own DIY floor cleaner. For regular cleaning, combine a teaspoon of clear and unscented dish soap with a gallon of hot water.
Evans recommends a solution of white vinegar and hot water because it doesn’t leave a sticky residue, which is often an issue with hard floors. He suggests one part vinegar to 10 parts water. “It’s effective yet not that aggressive to your floors,” he notes.
This is also helpful if your floor has developed a slight film or waxy buildup on it (which happens over time when the wrong cleaning products are used). Vinegar, which is a natural cleaning agent, will break down the film without hurting the laminate surface. (Note: The same rules about water apply to either of these DIY solutions. Make sure to wring the mop so it is only slightly damp. Never let water pool on the floor.)
6. Do protect the surface from future damage
To avoid future scratches, add furniture pads under the legs of chairs and tables, especially if they get moved frequently. For spots that are likely to get dents or withstand heavy foot traffic, invest in rugs to help prevent wear and tear. Placing a rug under a dining room table or under a desk chair not only saves your floors but also enhances your interior decor.
7. Don’t forget a doormat
Dirt that gets tracked in from outside not only makes your floor dirty, but can also damage the floor. The grit, for example, from a dirty shoe bottom can be one of the biggest enemies your laminate floor faces because it can scratch, dull, and even dent. Stop dirt in its tracks with a welcome mat that is as fashionable as it is functional. Something this low-maintenance can make all the difference.
8. Do trim your pet’s nails
Keep your pet’s nails trimmed to prevent abrasion on the decorative layer. Your cat or dog’s nails can scuff up the laminate floor, though this can also help keep all home surfaces in good condition.
What are some household hacks for stubborn stains on laminate floors?
No one is perfect, and even if you’re on top of your cleaning routine, accidents happen—and so do stubborn stains. Here are some common messes and how to clean them. Regardless of which method you choose, always look at the flooring’s specification information online to inform the cleaning solutions you use, because using certain products might void the warranty, says Kiril Ratia, general contractor and founder at Ratia Construction.
How to clean general dirt stains on laminate floors
