Your Ultimate Guide to Maintaining Laminate Flooring
At Frank’s, we understand that choosing your new laminate flooring is just the start of your journey. Maintaining its appearance is crucial to ensure it continues to complement your home beautifully for years to come.
Laminate flooring is known for its durability and ease of maintenance, making it a popular choice for busy households. However, keeping it in tip-top shape requires some know-how. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to maintain and care for your laminate flooring effectively.
Daily Care and Routine Cleaning
Sweep Regularly: Laminate floors tend to show dust and dirt more than some other types of flooring, especially in areas with high foot traffic. Use a soft-bristle broom or a dust mop daily to remove surface dirt, dust, and debris. This prevents particles from scratching the floor when they are walked on or when the floor is cleaned with a mop.
Vacuum Without a Beater Bar: For a deeper clean, you can vacuum your laminate flooring once a week. Ensure your vacuum is set to the hard floor setting or does not have a beater bar, as this can scratch the laminate.
Mop Sparingly: When it comes to mopping, less is more with laminate floors. Excessive water can cause the boards to swell and warp over time. Use a damp mop rather than a wet one, and wring it out thoroughly before mopping. Alternatively, use a microfibre mop and a spray bottle to lightly mist the floor before wiping – this minimises the amount of water used.
Spot Cleaning and Stain Removal
Immediate Action: Spills should be wiped up immediately to prevent water from seeping into the seams. Use a clean, dry cloth to blot spills gently.
Appropriate Cleaners: Use a cleaner specifically designed for laminate flooring for more stubborn stains or sticky spots. Do not use wax, polish, or any abrasive cleaners as these can damage the protective coating of the laminate.
DIY Cleaning Solution: For a homemade cleaning solution, you can mix a teaspoon of clear, unscented dish soap with a gallon of hot water. Dampen a microfiber cloth in the solution and wipe the area clean. Make sure to dry the floor afterward with a clean, dry cloth to remove any residual moisture.
Preventative Measures
Use Entry Mats: Place mats both outside and inside exterior doors to reduce the amount of dirt and moisture brought onto the laminate floors. Encourage family members and guests to wipe their feet or remove their shoes upon entering.
Felt Pads: Attach felt pads to the bottom of furniture legs to prevent scratches when pieces are moved or shifted. Check and replace these pads regularly as dirt and debris can become embedded in them and scratch the floor.
Avoid Sharp Objects: High heels and pet claws can potentially scratch laminate flooring. Keep pet nails trimmed, and avoid walking on laminate floors in heels.
Protect from Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade laminate flooring over time. Use curtains or blinds to control the amount of sunlight hitting the floor, especially during peak sunlight hours.
Periodic Deep Cleaning
Even with regular cleaning, your laminate flooring will benefit from a more thorough clean occasionally. This can be done every few months, depending on the level of foot traffic. Use a cleaning product recommended by the flooring manufacturer and follow the instructions carefully. Some homeowners opt for professional cleaning once a year to ensure their flooring remains in pristine condition.
Repairing Damages
Laminate flooring is quite resilient, but it can still suffer from chips or deep scratches. Most manufacturers offer repair kits that match the flooring, which can be used to fill in small chips and scratches. For more significant damage, it might be necessary to replace the affected planks. Laminate flooring is designed for relatively easy plank replacement, which is another reason it’s such a practical choice for busy homes.
With these tips, your laminate floors should continue to look welcoming for years to come. Remember, the key to prolonging the life and beauty of your flooring lies in regular maintenance and care. If you ever need more advice or assistance, pop into your local Frank’s – we’re always here to help!