Laminate flooring is popular because it’s an attractive and cost-effective alternative to pricey hardwood floors, but when it comes to cleaning, you can’t rely on your old hardwood routines. Despite laminate’s convincing hardwood appearance, it requires a different set of maintenance procedures to keep its shine for years to come. Let’s talk about some handy ways you can clean and maintain your laminate flooring.

1. Use Laminate-Specific Cleaning Products – Cleaning products formulated for other types of flooring can leave sticky residues and cause swirling on laminate boards, so you’ll want to make sure your cleaning solution is approved for laminate surfaces.
2. Avoid Abrasives – Always use a soft-bristled brush or broom to remove visible dirt particles by hand. Scouring pads, steel wool, or a stiff brush can scratch laminate boards–and the only way to repair a scratched laminate board is to rip it up and install a new one. If vacuuming, use the “bare floor” setting and avoid attachments that could cause scratching.
3. Sweep Twice, Mop Once – The best way to keep your laminate floors clean is to maintain a healthy cleaning schedule and stick to it. If you sweep twice a week with a soft broom and mop once every two weeks your floors will stay neat and clean. Use a damp (not wet) microfiber mop with a small amount of cleaning product or a traditional mop that’s been rung almost completely dry to lift stubborn dirt and stains.
4. Beat The Clock – Stains happen all the time, but they don’t clean themselves. Spills left to dry on laminate floors can seep into the boards which causes splits, stains, swelling, air pockets, or fading. Since damaged boards can’t be repaired, your best defense against stains is a strong offense. You’ll only be penalized in the form of a dirty floor if you try to run out the clock.
5. Play Defense – A welcome mat at on both sides of your front door is your best defensive play against a dirty floor. Along those lines, placing furniture pads on couches, chairs, and tables prevents these furniture items from scraping your floor every time your guest scooches their chair.
6. Give Your Pets a Pedicure – We love our pets, but nobody likes a ruined floor. Keeping your pets’ nails neatly trimmed is not only good for their health, it keeps them from accidentally scratching the floor every time they come running happy to see you. If you have a dog and hear an audible clack with each step, it’s time to trim.

We’re big laminate fans because it’s a versatile and durable flooring solution that works great in living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, or just about anywhere. It’s an economical way to emulate the look of hardwood, tile, or stone that’s easy to install, effortless to clean, and always looks great no matter where you put it.

If you’re thinking about upgrading your floors, stop by any of our convenient Northeast Ohio locations or give us a call at (888) SHOP-123 to speak with one of our friendly flooring experts today.