whats the best way to clean laminate wood floors

1. Start with hot water. Most of the time, pure hot water will be the best choice for cleaning your wood laminate floor.
2. Dilute vinegar. If you need something a little more powerful than plain water, try adding white vinegar to hot water.
3. Purchase wood laminate floor cleaner. Another option is to purchase the specific cleansing produce created for your floor.
4. Try baby shampoo. An inexpensive option for cleaning your laminate floors is to use baby shampoo. ...

Full Answer

What's the best cleaner for laminate flooring?

Top 5 Best Laminate Floor Cleaners for Shine Black Diamond Stoneworks Wood & Laminate Floor Cleaner. These floors are very easily bruised, so you need something gentle yet powerful to clean it thoroughly. Zep ZPEZUHLF128 ZUHLF128 Hardwood and Laminate Cleaner. This is another simple cleaner that works very effectively on your floors. ... New Mohawk Hardwood and Laminate Floor Cleaner Spray. ... More items...

How to clean laminate floors correctly?

• Avoid sliding furniture or heavy items across your floor
• Place pads or fabric underneath the legs of chairs and tables
• Don’t use rugs with a rough underside
• Make use of mats at the doors of your house to reduce mud and oils
• If you have pets, keep their claws, talons, or nails clipped
• Avoid wearing shoes with points, such as heels

How to naturally clean laminate floors without streaking?

How to Clean Laminate Wood Floors Without Streaking

• Method 1 Method 1 of 3: Selecting a Streak-Free Cleaning Product. Create a vinegar solution. Mix together a 50-50 white vinegar and distilled water mixture inside a spray bottle.
• Method 2 Method 2 of 3: Performing a General Cleaning. Complete a spot test. ...
• Method 3 Method 3 of 3: Maintaining Your Floors. Wipe up any spills immediately. ...

How to make homemade laminate floor cleaner?

Ingredients for DIY Laminate Floor Cleaner:

• Glass spray bottle
• 5 ounces of white vinegar
• 5 ounces of 70% rubbing alcohol
• 5 ounces of water
• 6 drops of essential oils (optional)

How do I clean a really dirty laminate floor?

4:0911:343 Ways to easily clean dirty laminate flooring - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThings you'll need microfiber mop cleaning solution you can use any hardwood floor cleaner warmMoreThings you'll need microfiber mop cleaning solution you can use any hardwood floor cleaner warm water step one use your microfiber mop to dry mop your laminate floors and remove unwanted particles.

Can you wet mop laminate flooring?

Cleaning Laminate Floors: Do not use steam cleaners or wet mops, which may cause irreparable damage to your floor. Use a damp cloth to blot up spills as soon as they happen.

What to avoid on laminate floors?

Don't use abrasive tools. Laminate floors can scratch, so steer clear of anything abrasive (steel wool, for example). You'll want to use a soft-bristle broom or dust mop to sweep up debris. If you're vacuuming, be careful to use an attachment without a beater bar or rotating brush, which could scratch the surface.

What ruins laminate flooring?

Here are more common mistakes to avoid when cleaning laminate so you can keep your floor looking new longer.01 of 09. Too Much Water. heshphoto / Getty Images. ... 02 of 09. Wrong Cleaners. ... 03 of 09. Vacuuming and Sweeping. ... 04 of 09. Type of Mop. ... 05 of 09. Furniture Damage. ... 06 of 09. Streaks. ... 07 of 09. Plants. ... 08 of 09. Pet Food.More items...•

Are Swiffer wet mopping cloths safe for laminate floors?

Can you use a wet Swiffer on laminate floors? Yes, you can use a wet Swiffer or Swiffer WetJet on laminate floors.

Can you clean laminate floors with Swiffer wet?

The best way to clean laminate floors is with a small amount of moisture and the right detergent. A Swiffer Sweeper wet mop can provide the right amount of detergent spray without letting the water sit too long on the surface of the laminate and causing damage.

Can you mop laminate floors with Pine Sol?

Pine-Sol® Multi-Surface Cleaner is safe for use on laminate floors. Just choose your favorite scent — we like using Original Pine on laminate floors.

How do you mop laminate floors without streaks?

Use a microfiber flat mop pad to mop your floor. Not only do microfiber mop pads clean well with just water, they also prevent your floors from getting too wet which can cause streaks. Microfiber mops don't even require a bucket to get the job done, and are easy to rinse and wring out in the sink.

How to avoid spills on laminate floors?

Tackle spills as they happen. The best way to avoid stains is to wipe up spills immediately. Liquids can damage laminate floors, so it’s critical to minimize exposure to them.

Why do laminate floors need special care?

Laminate floors need special care because unlike hardwood, the surface can’t just be refinished in the case of stains or damage. To avoid pricey replacements, it’s critical to maintain your floors and treat them with care. (That means no stilettos!)

How to prevent scratches on furniture?

To avoid future scratches, add furniture pads under the legs of chairs and tables, especially if they get moved frequently. Floor mats and rugs—particularly by entrances—will also help prevent wear and tear.

Can you clean laminate floors the same way?

Wondering how to clean laminate floors and keep them looking great for years? While your laminate floors may look as good as hardwood floors, that doesn’t mean you should clean them the same way. The best way to clean laminate floors is not the same method you would use to make those oak planks shine.

Can you mop laminate floors?

Traditional mopping is a no-no for laminate floors since the water can seep into the seams and cause damage (like swelling or floor bubbling). Pools of water can also cause staining or fading.

Can dirt damage laminate floors?

Dirt that gets tracked in from outside not only makes your floor dirty, but it can also damage the floor. The grit, for example, from a dirty shoe bottom can be one of the biggest enemies your laminate floor faces, as it dirties, dulls, and can even scratch. Stop dirt in its tracks with a welcome mat that offers visitors the opportunity to give their shoes a good wipe.

Can laminate floors scratch?

Laminate floors can scratch, so steer clear of anything abrasive (steel wool, for example). You’ll want to use a soft-bristle broom or dust mop to sweep up debris. If you’re vacuuming, be careful to use an attachment without a beater bar or rotating brush, which could scratch the surface.

How to keep laminate floors from scratching?

A nylon broom can get up most of the pet hair, dust, and dirt that collects on your floors. For hard-to-reach dust in the corners, use the soft-brush attachment on your vacuum and make sure the vacuum cleaner wheels are clean so they don’t scratch the floor.

How to avoid spills on laminate floors?

Tackle spills as they happen. The best way to avoid stains is to wipe up spills immediately. Liquids can damage laminate floors, so it’s critical to minimize exposure to them.

Why do laminate floors get warped?

Traditional mopping can ruin laminate floors because water can seep into the seams and cause swelling and warping. Pools of water can also cause staining or fading, and using excessive amounts of cleaning solutions can break down the composition of some synthetic materials.

What to use to buff a dust mop?

If you don’t mind getting on your hands and knees, you can use microfiber cloths and put a little more muscle behind your buffing. Work in circles with your buffing tool of choice and buff each section of the floor for a nice shine.

Why do laminate floors need special care?

Laminate floors need special care because the surface can’t be refinished or easily repaired. To avoid shelling out for costly replacements, it’s critical to maintain your laminate floors the right way. The good news is we’re here to show you how.

What causes scratches on laminate floors?

Your cat or dog’s nails can cause tiny scratches on your laminate floor that you might not notice until it’s too late. Keep your pet’s nails trimmed and use mats under their food and water bowls.

Can you use a steam mop on laminate floors?

If you use a regular mop, wring it out until it’s nearly dry. You can use a steam mop occasionally for deep cleaning. Be aware that steam can cause laminate flooring to buckle, so dry your floors after steam cleaning.

Why do you need to clean laminate floors?

This article has been viewed 1,862,746 times. Laminate floors need to be cleaned regularly in order to prevent them from getting scratched or warped, but using harsh cleansers can create streaks or damage the laminate.

How to clean laminated wood with vinegar?

2. Spray the solution onto the laminate a little a time.

What does it mean to sweep laminate flooring?

Sweep in the direction that the laminate floor tiles were laid. Doing so allows you to pick up any debris that falls in between the grooves of the laminate flooring pieces.

How to get mud off laminate floor?

Pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) white vinegar into a 30 to 32 oz (940 to 1000 ml) spray bottle. Fill the rest of the bottle with plain water and shake well to combine. Diluted vinegar is especially useful when your laminate floor has caked on mud or other stains that have caused it to become faded or dull.

What to use to clean cloths?

Dampen the cloth with mineral spirits for best results.

Does laminate flooring scratch?

Even though laminate flooring is fairly scratch-re sistant, excess dirt, hair, and debris can cause scratches to develop if allowed to build up over time. Regular sweeping prevents such scratches from forming.

Can you put water on laminate flooring?

Do not allow any liquid, even water, to sit on the floor for prolonged periods. Liquid can stain or damage the protective wear layer of the laminate flooring. Soak up excess liquid with a dry cloth. Dampen the cloth or sponge before spot-cleaning the location of the spill to remove any remaining residue.

What is the best way to clean laminate flooring?

A microfiber mop: These tools are lightweight, quiet, relatively inexpensive and designed with laminate flooring in mind. They can be used dry to broom away the majority of the dirt, but going over the flooring with laminate floor cleaner is the best way to eliminate fine dirt. Here are the best microfiber mops for laminate flooring:

How to get rid of streaks on laminate floors?

1 cup rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) 1 cup white vinegar. 4-6 drops liquid dish detergent. The vinegar smell does linger, and many laminate floor owners still get streaks with this recipe because they spray it on too heavily (see FAQs below).

How much does Bruce Laminate cleaner cost?

Bruce Laminate and Hardwood Floor Cleaner, $6-$8 for 32oz spray, made in the USA by one of the leading laminate manufacturers for safe, hassle-free cleaning. Black Diamond Wood and Laminate Floor Cleaner, $9-$10 for 32oz spray, made in the USA with a polymer additive to fight dirt adhesion.

What causes laminate floors to warp?

Gritty dirt that acts like sandpaper on the wear layer as it is walked on. Liquid spills that seep into flooring joints and cause warping. Excessive moisture from cleaning that can damage like a spill. Cleaning laminate floors properly will help you defeat these enemies and enjoy durable beauty for many years.

How much does it cost to polish laminate floors?

Most often, polish is the technique of last resort to bring back the shine on worn laminate. Top laminate floor polishes are: Bona: $18-$22 for 32oz.

How to clean tough stains?

For spot cleaning tougher stains: either use hot water or use the cleaning products recommended by the manufacturer.

Can you use a sponge mops on laminate flooring?

Sponge mops and string-type wet mops are not recommended for laminate flooring because the risk of using excess water is and harming the floor is too great. Laminate floor cleaner for use with microfiber mops: Laminate cleaner, used sparingly, helps pick up dirt without risk. The best laminate floor spray choices are:

Why do laminate floors need to be dry cleaned?

A laminate wood floor needs to be dry cleaned regularly to remove dust, sand, and dirt particles to prevent tiny scratches from accumulating on the hard floor. At first, these faint scratches are not apparent, but over time they result in a laminate floor that has lost its ability to shine.

How to get rid of vinegar smell on laminate floor?

The oil not only helps eliminate the vinegar smell but makes the room smell fresh and clean. Use either a Swiffer mop or microfiber mop to clean the laminate floor. Before wet mopping, make sure that the floor has been dry mopped to remove any dust and dirt.

What is laminate wood flooring?

Laminate wood floors are a synthetic flooring product that is designed to mimic wood beneath a clear protective layer. This type of flooring comes in various color shades and wood grain styles. While it is relatively easy to maintain, laminate flooring can become dull and unattractive over time if it is not cared for and cleaned correctly using ...

How to make a floor cleaner with essential oil?

To make this simple and effective essential oil floor cleaner, combine the water and vinegar in a spray bottle and add a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil. A citrus scent like lemon or orange works well. The oil not only helps eliminate the vinegar smell but makes the room smell fresh and clean.

Can laminate flooring be mopped?

While a laminate wood floor does need to be wet mopped regularly, do not get the flooring overly wet. Laminate flooring can warp over time if you apply too much liquid to its surface.

Can you use wet cleaning solution on hardwood floors?

This also applies to a hard wood floor cleaning solution. We recommend using a dry cleaning method for regular maintenance and wet cleaning with mild ingredients for cleaning soiled laminate flooring or hardwood floors.

Is it bad to clean laminate floors?

Steer clear of cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals when cleaning your laminate floors. These products are not only bad for the environment but may damage your flooring. This recipe shows you what to use to clean laminate floors to protect their clear coat surface and how to make a homemade floor cleaner.

How to remove dirt from laminate floor?

Get yourself a dust mop or a vacuum cleaner to remove surface dirt instead of a wet mop. A wet mop will pick up gritty particles and spread them around the floor. At best, this will contribute to streaks and residue. At worst, the grit will scratch and pit the surface of your floor. If you use a vacuum cleaner, choose a machine with a setting for hard floors, as vacuums with rolling brushes can scratch and damage laminate over time.

How to get dirt off of a floor?

Get yourself a dust mop or a vacuum cleaner to remove surface dirt. These gritty particles will be picked up by the wet mop and get spread around the floor. At best, they'll contribute to streaks and residue. At worst, this grit will scratch and pit the surface of your floor.

What is the best way to clean a dust mop?

An absorbent cleaning cloth attached to a dust mop works well, as does a dry, microfiber mop head. Cloth diapers make a great DIY option and microfiber cleaning cloths work well for an ultimate hands-and-knees job. Work in circles with your tool of choice and gently buff each section of the floor for a nice shine.

How long does it take for a floor to dry after mopping?

If an excess of water or liquid is left behind to dry, you're using too much: the floor should dry within one to two minutes of mopping. The Spruce / Danielle Holstein.

Can you use vinegar to clean laminate floors?

An expensive laminate floor cleaner is not always the best answer. Choose a cleaner that is designed to work with your floor type and also fits your budget or, better yet, make your own solution using vinegar or even a little rubbing alcohol. And whatever solution you choose, don't overdo it.

Do you have to pry up laminate flooring?

There is no need to pry up your laminate floor just because it's functioning like a plywood subfloor. Understanding laminate flooring, and the best way to clean and shine it is the key to making your faux wood floor look like its hardwood counterpart.

Can water seep into laminate flooring?

Damp Mop Floors. Water and other liquids can seep in between the laminate boards and cause swelling, ultimately damaging your floor. When cleaning, keep water use to a minimum and only spray as much cleaner onto the floor as you need for a given section.

What about vinyl flooring?

An alternative to laminate, vinyl flooring is enjoying something of a moment in interior design. For everyday cleaning, treat it as you would treat laminate – a good vacuum and a mop with water should be enough to keep it looking its best. In general, you should be able to remove scuff marks from vinyl flooring using a cloth dipped in neat washing up liquid or white spirit, then rinsing.

How to remove shoe polish marks?

To remove tricky marks such as those made by shoe polish, try an acetone-based nail polish remover or WD-40.

What is the best cleaner for an oven?

For deep cleaning your oven, you’ll need a powerful cleaner such as Oven Mate. This gel formula is easy to apply using the supplied brush and gloves and then simply wipe away.

Can you wash a microfiber laminate floor?

It has a wide head that’s great for taking on large expanses of flooring. As it’s made from microfibre, you can use it with just a little water – and it's machine washable, too. Take care not to over-wet the floor as there’s a risk the moisture can get underneath the laminate and warp it.

Can you add soap to a floor?

GHI TIP: If you’re going to add a small amount of detergent to the cleaning water, avoid soap-based products as these can leave a film, which will dull the surface of your freshly cleaned floor.

Can you deep clean vinyl flooring?

However, some manufacturers of vinyl flooring, such as Amtico and Karndean, have their own cleaning products for everyday maintenance, as well as products that can be used to deep-clean your flooring by stripping and refinishing it. If your flooring is covered by a warranty, check the terms first and make sure you follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions to the letter to ensure you don’t invalidate it.