While the quality of your laminate flooring is essential to keeping it in good condition, the way you clean it plays an equally important role. Cleaning laminate floors can be a challenge for many people.
Here at Flooring Surgeons, we are here to guide you through the process of homemade laminate floor cleaning. If you are one of those who find it difficult to maintain their laminate flooring, be with us and learn safe, effective DIY recipes to keep your floors in their greatest condition.
Why Choose Homemade Cleaners for Laminate Floors
When it comes to cleaning your laminate floors, you have two main options: hiring professional cleaners or doing it yourself. Each choice has its own advantages and disadvantages. In this guide provided by our experts at Flooring Surgeons, we count the benefits of homemade cleaning solutions and the reasons why you should choose them for cleaning laminate floors. Here are some benefits of DIY solutions:
Cost-effectiveness and environmental considerations
Choosing to clean your laminate floors with homemade cleaners is a way more affordable option compared to buying commercial products or hiring professional services. In addition, when you use natural materials for cleaning, you’re making an eco-friendly decision that helps reduce your environmental footprint. Homemade solutions are not only simple, but also they are non-toxic ingredients that are safer for your home, your family, and the planet.
Essential Ingredients for DIY Laminate Floor Cleaners
There are some essential ingredients for DIY laminate floor cleaning. Most of these materials are natural ingredients that have an amazing cleaning effect on your laminate flooring. Just keep in mind that these solutions are not absolute cleaners, and to achieve spotless laminate flooring, you may need to seek professional help. However, these solutions are effective for minor cleaning tasks.
White vinegar
One of the easiest ways to clean your laminate flooring is to use white vinegar. White vinegar is a natural disinfectant that helps break down grime and dirt without leaving residue. It’s gentle enough for laminate surfaces. To use white vinegar, you need to dilute it beforehand. Add 2 quarts water with ¼ vinager to have a perfect amount of natural cleaner.
Rubbing alcohol
Sometimes stains remain in place and are not removed by regular mopping. That’s when rubbing alcohol becomes helpful. Apply a sufficient amount of rubbing alcohol directly to the stain and let it sit for a few moments. Then, clean the stain with a mop or a napkin.
Distilled water
Many experts recommend mixing white vinegar with distilled water in equal amounts to create a perfect homemade laminate floor cleaner. As we mentioned before, homemade solutions can be helpful when the stains and spots are not too stubborn.
If you are looking to clean your laminate floor quickly and with no effort, you need to seek professional help.
Essential oils (e.g., lemon, peppermint)
If you have tried everything and still the stain remains, essential oils are the other option you have. The best essential oils for floor cleanings are lemons, peppermint, eucalyptus oil, lavender oil and many other natural oils. To use this homemade cleaner, you only need 2-5 drops of essential oils added to other introduced options like distilled water, white vinegar or rubbing alcohol and spray the mixture on the stain.
Step-by-Step Recipes
To clean laminate floors perfectly, you need effective ingredients along with following the correct steps. If you want to remove stains on your laminate flooring, follow the instructions below.
Basic vinegar and water solution
First, prepare a bucket and fill it with a gallon (approx 3.5 litres) of hot water. Then, add 1 cup of white vinegar. If you want to create the best laminate floor cleaning solution, add a few drops of dishwashing soap. Mix the ingredients thoroughly and mop the floor with the solution. To achieve a shining laminate floor, finally mop the surface again using a clean, dry mop.
Vinegar, alcohol, and water mixture
There are other options to create an amazing solution and mop the laminate floor. To create the solution, follow the steps below:
- Prepare a spray bottle.
- Pour 1 cup of distilled water into the bottle.
- Add half a cup of white vinegar.
- To have the best laminate cleaner at home, add a ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol.
- You can add a few drops of dishwashing soap to strengthen the cleaning effect. This step is optional.
- Mix all the ingredients and spray it on the surface. Then mop it with a high-quality mop suitable for laminate flooring.
Optional additions for fragrance and enhanced cleaning
The best option for adding fragrance to a homemade cleaner is essential oil. Some essential oils, like lavender, can enhance the cleaning power by adding just a few drops to the mixture. Also, do not forget to add rubbing alcohol for even better cleaning results.
Application Tips
To have the best homemade laminate floor cleaners that are safe and effective, you need to keep a balance while adding ingredients and produce a safe mixture. There are some suggestions below:
Proper dilution ratios
Always ensure you dilute strong ingredients like vinegar and rubbing alcohol properly. A common ratio is one part vinegar to one gallon of water, with only a few drops of dishwashing soap if desired.
Best practices for applications to avoid streaks or damage
If you want to avoid damage, always keep in mind:
- To use a damp microfiber mop, not a wet one.
- To work in small sections and immediately dry the surface.
- Always seek professional help if the stain is resistant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use essential oils in my cleaner?
Definitely! Using essential oils enhances the cleaning. It also adds fragrance to it and makes the result pleasant.
How long can I store homemade cleaning solutions?
As long as your laminate flooring remains unharmed and there are no scratches, the solution will remain intact. Always check for any changes in smell, colour, or texture before using an older solution.
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