Your Ultimate Laminate Flooring Care Guide

Introduction to Laminate Flooring Care

Laminate flooring offers a beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance solution for many homes. To keep it looking its best, it’s important to follow specific care and maintenance practices designed to protect the finish and prevent damage. This guide will walk you through daily maintenance, deep cleaning, handling common issues, and ensuring your laminate floor’s longevity.

After You’re Fit

Noises And Expansion: Laminate takes a day or two to fully settle once fit, you might notice noises and creaking during the first few days. This is just down to the laminate expanding and contracting as it climatizes to the temperatures in your home. This is normal, and the expansion gaps around the edges of the room are there to allow this. 

Routine Maintenance and Cleaning

Dusting and Sweeping

Dust and debris can scratch laminate flooring over time. Regular dusting and sweeping are essential.

• Frequency: Sweep or dust daily or as needed, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Tools: Use a soft-bristle broom, a dry microfiber mop, or a vacuum with a hard floor setting to avoid scratching.

Regular Cleaning

Laminate is moisture-sensitive, so avoid excessive water and use gentle cleaning methods.

• Damp Mopping: Use a slightly damp microfiber mop—never a wet mop. Excess water can seep into seams, causing swelling.
• Laminate-Safe Cleaner: Choose a cleaner specifically designed for laminate or make a DIY cleaner with a few drops of mild dish soap in water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives.

Quick Spot Cleaning

• Immediate Clean-Up: Clean up spills as soon as they happen to prevent water from soaking into seams.
• Spot Cleaning: For sticky spills or dirt, use a lightly damp cloth and a laminate-safe cleaner.

Deep Cleaning

Frequency and Methods

Deep cleaning helps maintain the floor’s appearance and prolong its lifespan.

• Frequency: Deep clean every 3-6 months or as needed.
• Steam Cleaners: Avoid steam cleaners on laminate, as they can warp or damage the floor.
• DIY Solutions: Use a mixture of water and vinegar (one part vinegar to three parts water) for deep cleaning. Apply lightly and avoid leaving moisture on the floor.

Stain Removal

Common Stain Types and Solutions

Each stain requires a specific approach to avoid damage.

• Pet Stains: Use an enzyme-based cleaner designed for laminate.
• Grease or Oil: Wipe with a cloth dampened in a small amount of warm, soapy water, then dry immediately.
• Ink or Marker: Lightly dab with a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol. Avoid scrubbing to prevent damage.

Tips for Effective Stain Removal

• Blot, Don’t Rub: Blot stains gently with a soft cloth to avoid spreading or pushing the stain deeper.
• Use Mild Cleaners: Avoid abrasive cleaners or those with ammonia, bleach, or acetone, as they can damage the laminate’s finish.

Preventing Scratches and Wear

Using Floor Protectors and Rugs

Prevent wear in high-traffic areas and protect the floor from scratches by using:

• Furniture Pads: Attach felt pads to the legs of furniture to prevent scratches when moving items.
• Rugs and Mats: Place rugs in entryways and high-traffic areas to reduce wear and capture dirt.

Pet Care Tips

• Trim Nails: Keep pets’ nails trimmed to avoid scratching the floor.
• Pet Rugs: Place pet beds and rugs in areas where pets like to play or rest to protect the laminate.

Avoiding High Heels and Heavy Impact

• Avoid Sharp Heels: Stiletto heels can cause dents or scratches.
• Exercise Caution with Heavy Items: Be mindful when moving furniture or heavy objects, and consider lifting rather than dragging them.

Seasonal Care Tips

Winter Care

• Mud and Snow: Use mats at entrances to reduce the amount of mud, salt, and moisture brought in.
• Frequent Sweeping: Dirt and salt can act like sandpaper on laminate; sweep frequently.

Summer and Humidity Control

• Dehumidifiers: Laminate can warp with high humidity. Use dehumidifiers or air conditioning to control humidity levels (ideally 40-60%).
• Sunlight Protection: Use blinds or curtains to prevent fading caused by UV exposure.

Special Care Tips for Laminate

Avoid Excessive Water

Moisture is the leading cause of laminate damage, so always use the least amount of water possible during cleaning. Avoid steam mops, and always wipe up spills immediately.

Choose the Right Cleaning Products

• Laminate-Safe Cleaners: Use cleaners designed for laminate or a mild DIY solution (like vinegar and water).
• No Wax or Polish: Laminate floors have a protective layer that can be damaged by waxes or polishes. Stick to basic cleaners for best results.

Handle Minor Repairs

Laminate is resilient, but minor repairs may be needed over time.

• Repair Kits: Use laminate repair kits (available in different shades) for minor scratches and scuffs.
• Replacing Planks: In cases of serious damage, individual planks can often be replaced rather than redoing the entire floor.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Laminate Flooring

Extensive Water Damage

If your laminate floor has widespread swelling or warping, replacement may be necessary.

Persistent Scratches and Scuffs

When scratches become too visible or the protective layer is worn down, it might be time to replace.

Fading and Discoloration

If UV exposure has caused severe fading, consider replacing the affected areas to restore the floor’s appearance.