What cleaning solution is safe for laminate floors?

Use a ph-neutral cleaner designed for laminate. Alternatively, occasionally, use a mild vinegar and lukewarm water mix.

What’s the best way to prevent scratches on laminate floors?

Use felt pads under furniture, avoid walking with heels indoors, and keep pet nails trimmed. Mats at entrances also help trap dirt.

What should I avoid when cleaning laminate flooring?

Avoid using excessive water, steam cleaners, abrasive brushes, bleach, ammonia-based products, and wax-based polishes. These can damage the surface or seep into the joints, causing warping.

How to Clean Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is easy to maintain, making it a suitable alternative to hardwood flooring. However, that doesn’t mean that proper cleaning should be neglected. From fundamental techniques to some safe home methods, we’ll look at the best cleaning methods and tools to keep your laminate floors as beautiful and shiny as the day you first got them. Let’s see how to clean laminate flooring.

How Often Should I Clean Laminate Flooring?

Regular cleaning will keep your flooring looking shiny and will extend its lifespan. Daily sweeping will remove particles that may scratch the surface. In addition to daily maintenance, laminate flooring should be deep cleaned every two weeks or once a month (depending on how busy your home is).

The key to cleaning laminate flooring properly is to avoid using too much water. Because laminate flooring has a fibrous core that is very sensitive to moisture, if too much water seeps into the joints, it can cause the planks to swell, warp, or even entirely separate.

Essential Tools

Gather these essential tools before you start cleaning your laminate floors:

Soft-bristled broom or Microfibre Dust Mop
Vacuum cleaner with a hard floor setting (lightweight models are ideal)
Microfibre Mop or Spray Mop
Microfibre Cloths or Towels
A bucket of warm water
Laminate-safe, ph-neutral cleaning solution (store-bought)

Tip: Soft microfibre mops are perfect for laminate floors, trapping dust and debris without scratching the surface. Lightweight vacuums with a hard floor setting are great for reaching corners and along skirting boards.

How to Clean Laminate Floors – Daily & Quick Maintenance

Any stains or spills, especially dark liquids like coffee or wine, will be easier to remove from your flooring if you wipe them off immediately.

A soft-bristled broom or vacuum cleaner is ideal for quick and light daily cleaning. Start with a hard floor for light vacuuming. Always work towards the floorboards to avoid pushing dirt into the joints. Avoid vacuuming with a rotating brush attachment, which can scratch the laminate surface.

How to Remove Stains From Laminate Floors

Sometimes, Laminate Flooring needs more than a quick cleaning, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and living rooms. Use a slightly dampened microfiber mop with a laminate-safe cleaning solution for a deep clean. Wring out the mop thoroughly; your goal is only to dampen, not soak. Ventilate the room or turn on a fan to help the floor dry faster.

Homemade Cleaning Solution

While you shouldn’t rely on just any home remedy for cleaning laminate flooring, a mixture of lukewarm water and vinegar can be a natural and gentle alternative to store-bought cleaners. Apply the mixture to a small area and then wipe with a fine microfiber cloth.

For gum or sticky residues, place an ice pack over the spot to harden it, then gently lift it using a plastic scraper or knife.
Carefully remove oil stains with a small amount of acetone or nail polish remover. Always dry the area thoroughly afterwards.
For tough marks like ink, shoe polish, or permanent marker, use rubbing alcohol and apply it to a soft cloth. However, always test in an inconspicuous area first to check for discolouration.
As a last resort, a dot of silicone-based polish can remove stubborn scuffs, but clean the area thoroughly afterwards to remove any residue.

How to Maintain Laminate Flooring

Although laminate flooring is low maintenance and naturally stain-resistant, it will inevitably get dirty over time. The following tips will help you take the best care of your flooring.

Never use harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia to clean floors or remove stains.
Never use a vacuum with a rotating brush or beater bar, as these can scratch your laminate flooring.
Always vacuum before you mop your floor; otherwise, any residue can be pushed around and scratch the surface.
Test any homemade cleaner or solvent in a small, hidden area first to ensure no discolouration or damage occurs.
Avoid wearing shoes in the house, especially cleats and heels.
Place doormats at strategic points to collect dirt and felt pads for heavy furniture feet and dining chairs.
Ensure pets’ nails are kept short.
Place a tray under plant pots and a mat under pet bowls so residual water won’t reach the floors.
Read the cleaning manual from your manufacturer beforehand. They often provide specific instructions for that particular type or brand.
Direct sunlight can cause damage to laminate floors over time. Draw the shades or blinds during intense direct sunlight and when you are not home.

Conclusion

Following the simple yet powerful tips outlined here will help keep your laminate flooring looking flawless for longer.

Suppose you want to add laminate flooring to your home. In that case, we offer a wide range of laminate flooring in various colours and thicknesses at Flooring Surgeons.

For any flooring queries, drop us an email at info@flooringsurgeons.co.uk – or Visit our showrooms located in Birmingham & Wolverhampton!