Laminate floors can add a sleek and modern touch to a home, and keeping them clean requires a little care. Honestly, it’s not hard to learn how to clean laminate floors.
Unlike hardwood, laminate wood floors are really sensitive to excess moisture (avoid steam cleaners!) and harsh cleaning tools (steel wool), so using the right methods is key to maintaining their shine and not causing damage.
Follow these steps to clean your floors safely and effectively.
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Start by using a vacuum cleaner with a hard floor setting or a dry dust mop to remove loose dirt. This prevents debris from scratching the laminate surface while mopping.
If using a broom, opt for one with soft bristles to avoid damage.
Step 2: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
If you prefer a store-bought option, choose a cleaning solution specifically designed for laminate floors.
Alternatively, you can mix a homemade laminate floor cleaner by combining water and distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle. Dilute 1 cup (235 mL) of vinegar with about 1 gallon (3.8 L) of hot water. Again, avoid excessive liquid, as too much moisture can seep into the seams and cause swelling.
Step 3: Mop with a Microfiber Mop
Spray a small amount of the cleaning solution onto the floor and use a microfiber mop to wipe it clean. A slightly damp mop is best to prevent excess moisture from damaging the laminate floors.
Work in small sections and dry with a microfiber cloth as you go.
Step 4: Spot Clean Stubborn Stains
It’s very important to always test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area before applying it to a larger section.
For sticky spills, warm water and a mild detergent often work best. For grease stains, a little dish soap can be added to the water. For really tough stains, such as paint or ink, you can try dabbing a small amount of nail polish remover onto a dry cloth and gently rubbing the spot.
Avoid using steel wool or abrasive pads, as they can scratch the laminate surface.
Step 5: Dry the Floors Thoroughly
After mopping, use a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Keeping the floors as dry as possible helps prevent water damage and maintains their appearance.
Weekly Maintenance
Repeat once a week to avoid having to deep-clean your floors more regularly. For daily upkeep, you can use a dry dust mop or vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and debris.
Additionally, you can use mats at entrances to trap dirt and grit. Be sure to also put felt pads on furniture legs to prevent scratches.
Ada Tseng, HowStuffWorks