Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and stylish appearance. In order to keep your laminate floors looking their best, you should follow some simple Clean & Maintenance Dos and Don’ts. In this ultimate guide, we will provide you with essential tips on proper care and maintenance.
By following these guidelines, you can easily prevent damage to your laminate floors and ensure they remain in excellent condition for years to come. So, let’s dive into the dos and don’ts of laminate floor care and maintenance, providing you with the knowledge you need to keep your floors looking great.
Contents
Dos for Laminate Floor Cleaning and Maintenance
Sweeping and Vacuuming
To keep your laminate floors looking their best, regularly sweep or vacuum them using a soft brush attachment or a microfiber mop. This will help remove dirt and debris which can cause scratches and dullness. Vacuum dust and other particles daily or at least 2-3 times a week, depending on the foot traffic in your home.
Using the Right Cleaning Products
When cleaning your laminate floors, always use a laminate-specific cleaner. Avoid using steam cleaners, hard-bristle brooms, or abrasive cleaning products, as these can damage the surface of your flooring. Mix two cups of water with one teaspoon of mild dish soap to create a simple and effective cleaning solution. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning products when maintaining your floor.
Spot Cleaning and Stain Removal
For spot cleaning and stain removal, use a damp cloth or sponge to blot spills immediately. For stubborn stains, follow these guidelines:
- Oil, paint, lipstick, or tar: Use a gentle plastic scraper followed by a damp cloth and laminate-specific cleaner.
- Heel marks, crayon, or pencil: A simple eraser can remove these marks.
- Chewing gum or candle wax: Harden the substance using ice and gently remove with a plastic scraper.
Properly Drying the Floor
Maintaining a dry surface is crucial for laminate floors, as excess moisture can lead to warping and damage. After cleaning, always make sure to thoroughly dry the floor using a soft, clean towel or a microfiber mop. Do not allow standing water, as it can seep into the seams and cause swelling.
Routine Maintenance Practices
For the long-term care of your laminate flooring, consider these routine maintenance practices:
| Activity | Frequency |
| Daily Sweeping or Vacuuming | Every Day or 2-3 Times a Week |
| Cleaning with Laminate-Specific Cleaner | Once a Week |
| Avoiding High-Humidity Environments | Continuously |
| Using Furniture Pads to Protect the Floor | As Required |
By following these dos, you will effectively preserve the beauty and lifespan of your laminate flooring.
Don’ts for Laminate Floor Cleaning and Maintenance
Avoid Excessive Water
Using too much water while cleaning your laminate floors can lead to the swelling and damage of the material. To keep your floors in excellent condition, make sure to:
- Use a damp cloth or mop, not a wet one.
- Immediately wipe up spills to prevent moisture from seeping into the seams.
Steer Clear of Abrasive Cleaners
Abrasive cleaners can scratch and dull the surface of your laminate floors. To avoid damaging the finish, it is important to:
- Choose gentle cleansers specifically designed for laminate flooring.
- Avoid the use of steel wool or abrasive scrubbing pads.
Never Wax or Polish
Unlike hardwood floors, laminate flooring doesn’t require waxing or polishing. Applying these products can leave a filmy residue on the surface, which can be difficult to remove. To maintain the shine of your laminate floor:
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper cleaning and maintenance.
- Use a microfiber mop with a gentle cleaner for regular cleaning.
Beware of Damage from Furniture
Heavy furniture or improperly placed items can cause scratches, dents, or gouges in your laminate floor. To protect your flooring from damage:
- Place felt pads or furniture coasters under furniture legs to distribute weight and reduce the risk of scratches.
- Reposition furniture carefully, lifting rather than dragging it across the floor.
Preventing Scratches and Scuff Marks
To maintain the appearance and longevity of your laminate flooring, it is essential to take preventive measures against scratches and scuff marks. By following these tips, you can protect your floor and ensure it stays looking good for years.
First and foremost, you should invest in high-quality floor mats or rugs for the high-traffic areas in your home. Place them near entryways, hallways, and around furniture to catch dirt and debris that could scratch the floor. Additionally, regularly clean the mats to prevent dirt buildup that can be harmful to the laminate surface.
Another essential preventative measure is to attach felt or rubber pads to the bottom of your furniture legs. This will help reduce the friction between the furniture and the floor, preventing scratches when moving or rearranging your furnishings.
Be mindful of the footwear you and your guests wear indoors. Avoid walking on laminate floors with high heels, cleats, or damaged shoes, as these can cause significant damage to the surface. Implement a no-shoes policy in your home or have a designated area for shoe removal to reduce the risk of scratches from footwear.
Regularly sweeping or vacuuming your floor is necessary to remove dust, dirt, and debris that can lead to scuff marks and scratches. Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hard floor attachment to avoid causing damage to the laminate surface.
When moving heavy furniture or appliances, refrain from dragging them across the floor. Instead, use furniture sliders or lift the items to prevent scratches and scuff marks. If you need to use a wheeled dolly, ensure that its wheels are clean and free from gravel or dirt that might damage the floor.
Repairing Minor Damage
Even with the best care, your laminate flooring might experience some minor damage over time. In this section, you will learn some quick and effective methods to repair minor damages and keep your floor looking great.
First, let’s discuss scratches on your laminate floor. Small scratches can be hidden with the help of laminate repair kits available in most hardware stores. The kit usually includes a wax pencil or putty that matches your floor color. Here’s how to fix a scratch:
- Clean the scratched area thoroughly.
- Apply the wax pencil or putty, filling the scratch.
- Wipe off any excess material.
- Allow the repair to dry and blend into the surrounding area.
If you have minor chips or dents, you can use a color-matched wood filler. Simply follow these steps:
- Clean the chipped or dented area.
- Apply the wood filler using a putty knife, filling the damaged area.
- Allow the filler to dry for the recommended time.
- Gently sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface.
- Wipe off any dust and apply a thin layer of clear sealer to protect the repair.
If your laminate floor has a damaged plank, you might need to replace it. Most laminate flooring systems are designed to make this process relatively simple. Here’s how you can replace a plank:
- Remove the baseboard or molding around the damaged plank.
- Disassemble the floor planks, starting from the edge closest to the damaged plank.
- Remove the damaged plank and replace it with a new one.
- Reassemble the flooring, ensuring that all planks and joints are properly connected.
- Reinstall the baseboard or molding to finish the repair.
By addressing minor damages promptly, you can maintain your laminate floor’s beauty and prolong its life. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and use the proper techniques and tools to ensure the best results.