The Do’s And Don’ts Of Laminated Floor Cleaning

Few things ruin the look of a beautiful home faster than dull, streaky laminated floors. You had invested in that smooth polished look that laminated floors offer for a reason, but if you don’t take proper care of them, they won’t last for long. Cleaning these kinds of floors isn’t tough; you just need to know exactly what you should do and what you should avoid to keep it looking its best. Often you’re well meaning cleaning routines end up using the wrong tools or products. Laminate reacts very differently to things like heat, moisture and abrasion in comparison to let’s say hardwood floors. So, we need to understand the properties of laminate floorings first.

Let’s break down the do’s and don’ts of laminated floor cleaning, so that they can shine for a long time to come. This blog will go over things like choosing the right cleaning products, avoiding excess moisture, the proper cleaning techniques, etc., and help you make a real difference in preserving your floor’s finish. Whether it is routine maintenance that you’re trying to take care of or are preparing to receive expert bond cleaners Sunshine Coast, the golden rules we emphasise here will help you regardless. Let’s take a deeper look into this.

1. Do Use a Microfiber Mop for Daily Cleaning

In the case of laminated floors, you can think of things like dust and dirt as sandpaper on their smooth finishes. Every time you walk across a gritty surface, you risk scratching the top layers. A quick daily sweep or a pass with a dry microfiber mop keeps particles from building up and causing long term damage. Microfiber cloths are ideal because it traps dust instead of just pushing it around on the surface, and it’s gentle enough that it doesn’t end up scratching the protective layer.

For the best results, avoid tools like stiff brooms or vacuums with beater bars, as these can leave behind marks on the floor. A soft bristled broom or vacuum designed for hard floors will help maintain the smooth, polished look of your laminate.

2. Don’t Use Too Much Water To Clean

One of the most common mistakes people do when cleaning laminate floors is using too much water. A little dampness is fine, but too much of it will mean that the water seeps into the material making the planks swell or warp over time. Unlike hardwood, laminate cannot be sanded back and refinished, so once water damage occurs, the only way to fix is by replacing the entire thing.

So, stick to a slightly damp mop or spray bottle filled with a safe laminate cleaner. And if you spill liquid on your floors, wipe it up immediately to prevent it from soaking into the material.

3. Do Choose the Right Cleaning Products

Not all cleaning products that you find in the market are laminate friendly. Harsh chemicals, abrasive powders, and oil based cleansers can all damage laminate flooring’s protective covering, leaving behind difficult to remove streaks. So, use cleansers that are specifically designed for laminate, or make a gentle DIY solution with warm water and a sprinkle of mild dishwashing solutions.

If you’re not sure what products to use, remember that professional cleaners, such as the experts at trustworthy bond cleaning Sunshine Coast, recommend pH neutral solutions that are excellent for both laminate and other hard floor surfaces. These choices clean effectively without leaving residue or removing the finish.

4. Don’t Drag Heavy Furniture Across The Floor

Dragging your heavy furniture across the laminate floors is one of the fastest ways to get it damaged. If you’re not careful, pulling your furniture like couches, chairs and tables can cause the floors to get deep scratches or even chip the edges of the planks. Always lift your furniture when you’re moving it, or if that is not feasible, use felt pads underneath the legs to prevent friction.

If you frequently rearrange your furniture or you have a very active household, investing in protective mats for the high traffic areas can help keep your floor looking pristine and without scratches for longer.

5. Do Protect Your Floor From Sun Damage

Laminate floors, like many surfaces, can fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight. UV rays, can cause some areas of the laminate floor to lose their vibrant colours, resulting in uneven blotches. To protect your flooring from prolonged sun exposure, use curtains, blinds, or UV blocking window coverings. For rooms that receive a lot of natural light, consider changing your rugs and furniture on a regular basis so that any fading occurs uniformly over the floor.

6. Don’t Ignore Doing Small Repairs

Tiny chips, scratches, or lifted edges might seem insignificant to you now, but over time they can get worse and become harder to fix. Small issues may even allow moisture or dirt to seep underneath much faster, which compromises the flooring’s integrity.

Laminate repair kits are widely available and can help you take care of minor damages before it spreads. But if the damage is more extensive, it may be worth consulting a professional cleaning and restoration service, and this is often something professional bond cleaning Sunshine Coast providers will check for when ensuring a property meets end of lease standards.

7. Do Follow a Regular Maintenance Schedule

Laminate floors last longest when they have been maintained properly and constantly. Setting a consistent cleaning routine (daily dusting, weekly mopping, and monthly deep cleaning) helps you stay on top of the dirt and potential damage. Regular maintenance also reduces the likelihood of tenacious stains and built up filth. A calendar reminder or checklist can help you stay organised, especially if you have a busy family with children or animals.

8. Don’t Use Steam Cleaners

Steam cleaners may perform great on tile or sealed hardwood, but they are not appropriate for laminate floors. Heat and moisture can degrade adhesive layers, causing boards to lift or deform. Even if a steam cleaner promises that it is “laminate safe,” the long term risk it poses is not worth it. Instead, use the traditional approach of a gently damp mop and a gentle cleanser.

Steam Cleaning Tips & Tricks Infographic

Wrapping Up

There is no question that laminate flooring is practical and stylish, but it must be properly cared for to retain its beauty, and longevity. You can accomplish this by remembering the ideas mentioned above. A little attention and the appropriate procedures will ensure that your laminate remains a striking feature in your home for many years to come. Happy Cleaning folks!