One of the major reasons many consumers choose laminate flooring for their homes is for the ease of maintenance. Although the maintenance is relatively simple cleaning laminate flooring needs to be done on a regular basis to keep them looking their best. To keep your floors in good shape some preventive maintenance should be put in place to protect your floors.
How to Clean Laminate Flooring
-For general daily maintenance use a dust mop, broom or vacuum with a hard floor attachment to prevent any possible scratching to remove dirt and debris.
-When there is more than loose dirt a damp mop can be used for cleaning laminate wood floors. Care should be taken not to saturate the floor as standing fluids should be avoided on the floor and wiped up immediately. Warm water can be used for faster evaporation.
-For a dirtier floor some manufacturers recommend their laminate floor cleaner. Some manufacturers say that besides their laminate floor cleaner you can use household vinegar (1 cup) and water (1 gallon warm) or else household ammonia & water (1/3 cup ammonia to 1 gallon warm water). Always check with your manufacturer as you do not want to void your warranty.
-Do not use soap-based cleaners, citrus oil products as they will leave a film on your floor leaving it dull looking. Avoid scouring powder and steel wool as they can damage your floor.
-Floor polish or wax products should never be used as this would cause a film that just attracts dirt.
How to Clean Laminate Flooring When Spots are Involved
To clean up juice, wine, chocolate warm water should be all that is needed or a non-abrasive cleaner (ammonia & water) or some manufacturers will recommend their laminate floor cleaner.
To clean-up more severe spots such as permanent marker, tar, paint, heel marks and paint use alcohol or nail polish remover that contains acetone.
To clean up gum or candle wax harden with ice first then gently scrape with a blunt object.
Laminate wood flooring is very durable but it is not indestructible so some preventative maintenance should be taken to protect your floors.
Preventative Maintenance
-Use felt pads under chair and table legs to prevent scratching. Do not drag heavy objects across the floor.
-Place floor mats at entrances to prevent dirt and debris from being tracked in.
If damage does occur many manufacturers have a touch-up kit that can include putty, wax pencils or crayons and is for small damage. Damage that is larger than a ¼ of an inch will probably need the entire plank to be replaced. By keeping a good routine of daily and preventative maintenance you'll get years of enjoyment out of your floors.
Carol Coutts is a successful author who provides information regarding flooring via http://www.hardwoodlaminateflooringguide.com/laminate-flooring.html For more information on bamboo flooring, hardwood flooring, laminate floors, wood flooring, and cork flooring then check out http://www.hardwoodlaminateflooringguide.com/Articles-PG-1.html
Cleaning Laminate Flooring - Do You Really Need a Laminate Floor Cleaner?
