As much as laminate flooring has the same look as a hardwood floor, it doesn’t mean that they need to be cleaned in a similar way. The most suitable way of cleaning the laminate flooring is very different. This type of floor needs to be cared for in a special way. This is because, unlike hardwood, you can’t just refinish the surface when it’s damaged or stained. It can be very costly having to replace even a portion of your laminate flooring. So, it’s critical that you treat and care for your floors with a lot of care. Here’s how to clean and care for both new and older laminate floors:
1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
The very first thing to do during the process of cleaning your laminate floor is to read the manufacturer’s instructions with a lot of care. Depending on the material used for your specific brand, there may be specific recommendations. Manufacturers mostly provide product guides which are rather detailed on their websites and give instructions on how to go about cleaning the laminate floors.
2. Deal with spills the moment they happen
Stains on laminate flooring result from spills that are left to stay too long on the floor and therefore become difficult to clean. To avoid your floor developing stains as a result of spills, ensure you tackle them as soon as they occur. Do this by wiping the spills immediately. Laminate floors don’t really do well with liquids and it’s necessary to minimize how much they’re exposed to the liquids.
3. Clean with soft tools
Laminate flooring can get scratched as a result of cleaning if enough care isn’t taken. To avoid scratching your floor, sweep debris up using a dust mop or a soft-bristle broom. When vacuuming the floor ensure you use an attachment without a rotating brush or beater to avoid inflicting scratches.
4. Never use too much water
Laminate floors should never be mopped the traditional way because of the use of too much water. The water can damage the floors by seeping into the seams. However, by using a microfibre that has been slightly dampened, you can clean the floors.
5. Avoid using regular cleaning products
Avoid using regular cleaning products as they can leave residue and streaks on the floor and can also cause damage to the floor’s protective sealant. You may use a laminate cleaner but do it sparingly. Also, don’t apply the cleaner directly to the floor but rather to the microfibre cloth or mop. Polishes or wax should also never be used on these floors.
6. Use common household items for cleaning tough stains
Right in the house, you’ll be able to find the solution to removing tough stains on the laminate flooring. These stains include candle wax or ink. To the candle wax or chewing gum, apply a plastic bag containing ice. Then, use a plastic knife, credit card or scrapper once the stains have hardened. Rubbing alcohol can also be helpful for dealing with ink, tackle paint, crayon and nail polish.
7. Protect the floor surface
The laminate flooring surface should be protected from developing scratches and other forms of damage using appropriate means. It’s a great idea to add furniture pads under table and chair legs. This is very necessary if you frequently move the furniture. A great wear to prevent wear and tear, floor rugs and mats can be placed on the floor, especially at the entrances.
