How To Clean Laminate Floors

Laminate floors are built to stand up to abrasion and wear and are easy to clean and care for. You only need to have a damp towel, dry mop and vacuum cleaner. Learn the basics in this video from BuildDirect:

Dirt can lead to fine scratches which can make your laminate floors look dull and used. The best way to clean is by using an ammonia and water mixture, vinegar, or any other window cleaning product. You should first sweep or vacuum the floor and then mist it with your cleaner and a mop. Buff the floor later with a terry cloth rowel. If you want to minimize the use of cleaning fluids, you can use micro-fiber pads that are quite effective. Some manufacturers make their own laminate floor cleaners. Be sure to check out the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations.

You can keep your laminate floors looking just like new by following these tips:

• Use a broom, a slightly damp cloth or mop, or a vacuum cleaner with a soft flooring attachment to remove debris, dirt and grit.
• To prevent scratching, add cushion protectors or glides under table and chair legs.
• Have floor mats and foot brushes readily available at all outside doorway areas to keep dirt away.
• Damp mop using warm water as it will evaporate more quickly. Change the water as necessary to keep it clean.
• Avoid any standing fluids and do not saturate the floor while damp mopping. Wipe up any spills immediately.
• Floor polish or wax products should never be used. They will leave a film on the floor, causing it to leave footprints and streaks and attract more dirt.
• Other products to avoid are citrus oil products, scouring powder, soap-based cleaners and steel wool as they will damage the floor’s decor layer and the finish.
• Laminate flooring surfaces should never be lacquered, refinished or sanded.

Here are some additional spot cleaning tips for common stains:

• Blood, juice, wine, beer, soda, and pasta sauce: Use warm water or a neutral cleaner with a light colored cloth.
• Candle wax or chewing gum: Harden the stain with ice and then scrape gently. Wipe the remainder with warm water and a clean cloth.
• Oil, paint, permanent marker, rubber heel marks, tar: Use a neutral cleaner on a clean light colored cloth. You can also use alcohol or a nail polish remover containing acetone.