How to Clean Laminate Flooring and Surfaces: 7 Pro Tips

You love how your laminate floors and surfaces look, but keeping them clean can feel tricky sometimes. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’ll share 7 pro tips to help you keep your laminate flooring spotless and shining without damaging it. Whether it’s dust, spills, or stubborn stains, these easy tricks will make cleaning a breeze. Keep reading to learn how to take care of your laminate floors and surfaces like a pro!

Sweep and Dust Regularly to Prevent Damage

Before you even think about mopping or scrubbing your laminate floor, the first step is to remove the dust, dirt, and debris that could cause scratches. Over time, small particles can accumulate on your laminate floor, and when you walk on them, they can grind into the surface, leading to unsightly scratches.

Sweeping your floor every day or at least a few times a week is the best way to avoid these types of damage. Use a microfiber dust mop or a soft-bristle broom to avoid pushing the dirt around or causing any harm to your laminate surface. Microfiber is fantastic because it traps dust and dirt, rather than just pushing it around like a regular broom.

Now, if you’re dealing with a lot of debris or dust, you might need a slightly more powerful tool. A vacuum cleaner with a soft floor setting can help remove dirt from the grooves of your laminate floor. Be sure to avoid using a vacuum with a rotating brush, as this can scratch the surface. Instead, stick with a gentle suction or use a vacuum attachment that’s specifically designed for hard floors.

Even though laminate flooring is known for its durability, the last thing you want is a buildup of grit that can cause damage over time. Keep your floors looking brand new with a regular sweeping routine, and don’t forget to sweep up corners and edges where dirt tends to accumulate.

Use the Right Mop and Cleaning Solution

Mopping laminate flooring can be a bit tricky if you don’t do it correctly. Laminate floors are water-resistant, but they’re not waterproof. Excessive moisture can seep into the seams between the planks, which could cause them to warp or swell. So, it’s essential to use the right tools when mopping.

Start by choosing a microfiber mop. Microfiber mops are super effective at cleaning without being too wet, which is perfect for laminate floors. These mops work by trapping dirt and liquid without leaving behind too much moisture. They’re gentle enough to avoid damaging the laminate surface but still get the job done.

When it comes to a cleaning solution, you don’t need anything fancy or expensive. You can make your own laminate floor cleaner by mixing a small amount of dish soap with warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as they can cause damage to the laminate over time. If you’re looking for a store-bought option, make sure it’s labeled safe for laminate floors.

Once you’ve got your mop and cleaning solution ready, start mopping in sections. Wet your mop in the cleaning solution, wring it out until it’s just damp, and then gently mop the floor. Work in small areas, moving your mop in a figure-eight motion. This helps ensure that the water doesn’t pool on your floor, which is the main culprit of warping.

After mopping, go over the floor with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any excess moisture. This ensures that the laminate is left clean and dry without soaking the seams or edges.

Handle Spills Immediately to Prevent Stains

Spills are inevitable, whether it’s a glass of wine, coffee, or a plate of spaghetti. The key is to act fast before the spill can stain or seep into your laminate flooring. Laminate is designed to resist stains to a degree, but if a spill isn’t cleaned up quickly, it can cause problems.

The first thing to do is blot the spill with a clean cloth or paper towel. Don’t rub it! Rubbing can spread the liquid around and push it into the seams of the laminate, which could cause water damage over time. Instead, gently blot the area to absorb as much liquid as possible.

For stubborn spills, you can use a gentle cleaning solution. A mixture of equal parts water and vinegar can do wonders for sticky messes like food spills or soda. Spray the solution onto the spill, let it sit for a minute, and then wipe it up with a clean microfiber cloth. This method works well for most common household liquids and leaves no residue behind.

For greasy or oily spills, you can try using a bit of dish soap in warm water to break down the oils. Again, make sure you use only a damp cloth to avoid excessive moisture.

Remember, the quicker you act on spills, the easier it is to clean them up. So, next time you spill something, don’t panic—just clean it up right away, and your laminate floor will stay in great shape.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasive Cleaners

One of the biggest mistakes people make when cleaning laminate flooring is using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Products like bleach, ammonia, or acidic cleaners can cause serious damage to laminate. They may strip the protective layer of the laminate, leaving it more vulnerable to scratches, fading, and stains.

So, what should you use? As mentioned earlier, a gentle cleaning solution of dish soap and warm water is your best bet for everyday cleaning. You can also use a store-bought laminate floor cleaner that’s specifically designed for this type of surface. These cleaners will clean effectively without risking damage to your floors.

Avoid using abrasive scrubbers like steel wool pads, scouring sponges, or rough brushes. These tools can scratch the surface of your laminate and leave it looking worn out. Stick with microfiber cloths, soft mop heads, or gentle sponges that won’t damage the finish of your laminate.

Additionally, make sure to avoid using vinegar or other acidic cleaners in large quantities. While vinegar can be useful for cleaning certain surfaces, it can break down the protective coating on laminate over time. Always dilute vinegar with water and use it sparingly.

If you’re unsure about a cleaning product, it’s always a good idea to test it in a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t cause any damage.

Keep Furniture and Objects Off the Floor

While laminate flooring is known for its durability, it’s still essential to protect it from heavy furniture and objects. Over time, the weight of furniture can cause indentations or marks on the surface. To avoid this, consider using furniture pads or felt protectors under the legs of your tables, chairs, and couches.

Furniture pads come in different sizes and materials, such as felt or rubber. These pads provide a cushion between the floor and the furniture, preventing any damage from occurring. You can easily find furniture pads at your local hardware or home goods store, and they are typically inexpensive.

When moving furniture, always lift it instead of dragging it across the floor. Dragging heavy objects can create scratches and marks that can be difficult to remove. If you must move furniture, use furniture sliders to make the process easier and safer for your laminate floors.

By taking a few simple precautions, you can prevent damage and keep your laminate flooring looking pristine for years to come.

Maintain the Shine of Your Laminate Flooring

One of the best things about laminate flooring is how shiny and glossy it can look when properly cleaned. But over time, the shine may start to fade, especially if your floor sees a lot of foot traffic. To maintain that shine, follow these simple tips.

Regular sweeping and mopping will help maintain the overall appearance of your floor, but you can also boost its shine by using a laminate floor polish. Laminate floor polishes are specifically designed to add a layer of shine and protection without leaving behind streaks or residue. You can usually find them at home improvement stores or online.

When applying floor polish, make sure the floor is thoroughly cleaned and dry first. Once applied, let the polish sit for a few minutes and then buff it out with a clean microfiber cloth. This helps restore that shiny, glossy look and provides a layer of protection that makes it easier to clean next time.

Additionally, always ensure that you avoid over-waxing or over-polishing your laminate. Too much wax buildup can make your floors look dull and sticky. Stick to the manufacturer’s instructions for how often to apply the polish, and you’ll maintain a beautiful, shiny floor.

Deep Clean Periodically for a Fresh Start

No matter how often you clean your floors, there will come a time when a deeper cleaning is needed. Deep cleaning involves tackling dirt and grime that regular sweeping and mopping just can’t reach. To give your laminate floors a fresh start, try deep cleaning them every few months.

Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove any surface dirt. Then, mix a solution of warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Use a microfiber mop to scrub the floor, paying extra attention to areas with heavy dirt buildup. If you need to tackle stubborn spots, use a soft-bristled brush or a sponge.

After deep cleaning, follow up with a dry microfiber cloth to ensure your floor doesn’t get too wet. You can also apply a laminate floor cleaner to restore any lost shine. Deep cleaning every couple of months will keep your laminate flooring looking fresh and free from any grime buildup.

Are These Questions in Your Mind?

Is it safe to use vinegar to clean laminate flooring?

While vinegar can be used for cleaning laminate flooring, it should always be diluted with water to avoid damaging the surface. Vinegar is acidic and can break down the protective layer of laminate if used in high concentrations or over time. Always test in a small area before applying it broadly.

Can you steam clean laminate floors?

Steam cleaning is not recommended for laminate flooring. The heat and moisture from the steam can seep into the seams of the laminate, potentially causing swelling or warping. Stick to methods that use minimal water, such as mopping with a damp microfiber mop.

Do I need to apply polish to laminate flooring?

Applying polish to laminate flooring is optional. It can help restore the shine and add a protective layer. However, be careful not to over-polish your floors, as this can lead to a sticky residue buildup. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for frequency.

Is it okay to use a wet mop on laminate floors?

Using a wet mop on laminate floors is not recommended, as excess water can seep into the seams and cause damage. Instead, use a damp mop and ensure that it’s not too wet.

Can I clean laminate flooring with a broom?

Yes! You can clean laminate floors with a broom, but be sure to use a soft-bristle broom. Harsh bristles can scratch the surface of the laminate, leaving visible marks.

Do I need to clean spills immediately on laminate flooring?

Yes, it’s best to clean up spills on laminate floors immediately to prevent them from staining or soaking into the seams, which could cause warping.

Is it okay to use bleach to clean laminate flooring?

No, bleach should be avoided when cleaning laminate floors. It’s too harsh and can break down the protective coating, leading to discoloration and damage over time.

Can I use a vacuum on laminate floors?

Yes, you can use a vacuum on laminate floors, but make sure to use a vacuum with a hard floor setting and avoid using a vacuum with a rotating brush, as this can cause scratches.

Do I need to protect laminate floors from furniture?

Yes, using furniture pads or felt protectors under furniture can help prevent scratches and dents caused by heavy items being moved or placed on the floor.

Is it okay to use soap and water on laminate flooring?

Yes, a mild dish soap mixed with water is safe for cleaning laminate floors. Just be sure to avoid excess moisture, and dry the floor immediately after mopping.