little john kin

If you've had experience with laminate flooring in the past, you know that the care and cleaning up these kinds of floors requires specific techniques in order to avoid damage. Laminates are not as durable and long-lasting as hard woods or ceramic, but with the right care and cleaning they can last a fairly long time. The following three tips should enable you to clean your laminate floor properly and extend its life as long as possible.

Prepare Your Surface

Large dirt particles or other abrasive substances are the number one enemy of laminate flooring. The top layer of the laminate is not strong enough to withstand heavy particles that might cause scratches and abrasions in the surface, so cleaning your floor without removing these particles first could cause a problem. Prepare your floor by sweeping with a soft broom or a dry dust mop. Don't use a stiff-bristled broom or vacuums because they can easily leave scratches. If you have a soft-bristled brush attachment for your vacuum, you can use it as long as you're very careful.

Choose the Right Cleaning Agents

Harsh cleaning agents such as bleach or ammonia can damage the finish on your laminate flooring. A floor which has been cleaned with such harmful chemicals often develops a cloudy finish and a dull colour. Be sure to use a gentle soap such as liquid dish washing detergent or an all-purpose cleaner which is specifically deemed as laminate floor safe. Resist the temptation to use a stronger chemical on stained areas of the floor as well. Rather, continue using the gentle soap with an alternating soak and wipe cycle.

Avoid Standing Water

Standing water on laminate flooring can seep between the joints and cause swelling. Avoid standing water at all costs by using a lint free cloth or mop that is merely damp. Start in one corner of the floor, working your way along the edge and out toward the other end. As you go, use a soft, dry cloth to buff dry the area you just cleaned.

It's also a good idea not to place the water bucket directly on the laminate. Instead, place it on the floor in the adjacent room or underneath a thick towel in the room where you're working. Use a plastic bucket instead of a metal one to decrease the risk of leaving water marks on the floor.

Once your laminate floor is clean, consider applying a coat of specially designed finish. Such finishes can be purchased at your DIY store and can be used as often as the instructions permit. Applying a finish coat when appropriate will make your floor look factory new and increase its longevity.