Due to laminate flooring being strong, cost-effective, and contemporary-looking, it has become a very popular option for homes in the UK. While laminate flooring is very tough and durable, it does still require the right care in order to keep it looking its best. Using the wrong method of cleaning can leave your laminate floor surface dull, streaky, or even cause damage that will affect it over time.
This guide will explain how to use the safest, easiest and most effective ways to clean laminate floors while maintaining their shine and avoiding common mistakes by using homeowner-friendly methods. This guide will assist you with how to clean laminate floors depending on whether you have a daily build-up of dust or want to perform a deeper clean.
Why Laminate Floors Need Special Care
Laminate flooring is different from solid wood in that laminate flooring has a surface layer of protection against stains and wear; however, laminate flooring can be damaged by too much moisture or by harsh chemicals. If too much water is used to clean the floor or if an inappropriate cleaning solution is used, the water may seep into the joints between the laminate planks, resulting in swelling or distortion of the laminate.
That’s why cleaning laminate floors involves using:
- Minimal moisture
- Gentle, non-abrasive tools
- pH-balanced or mild cleaning solutions
What You’ll Need to Clean Laminate Floors Safely
Gather these supplies before attempting to clean laminate:
- A soft bristle broom (or vacuum with hard-floor setting)
- A mop or cloth made from microfibre
- Spray bottle
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap or white vinegar (optional)
- Dry towel (or cloth made from microfibre)
Daily & Weekly Laminate Floor Cleaning Routine
1. Remove Dust and Grit First
Dust, sand, and small debris act like sandpaper on laminate floors.
Best practices:
- By sweeping your laminate floor every day with a soft bristle broom
- By vacuuming your laminate floor with a vacuum designed for hard floors
- By not using a vacuum with rotating beater bars
Taking this step alone will help maintain the look of your laminate flooring and keep it looking clean for longer.
2. Damp Mop (Not Wet Mop)
Don’t get laminate floors wet excessively.
How to do it right:
- Use a microfibre mop slightly damp (not wet)
- Use warm water or a mildcleaner
- Make sure you have wrung out your mop completely
If you see excess water on the floor, you need to wring out your mop more.
Top 5 Safe Cleaning Solutions for Laminate Floors
1. Warm Water (Yes, Really)
When you mop frequently, all you need is warm water, and a microfiber mop should remove any dirt without leaving behind any residue.
2. Mild Dish Soap Solution
Add some mild dish soap to warm water to clean up greasy footprints or in kitchen areas.
3. Vinegar & Water (Occasional Use)
1 cup of white vinegar mixed with 3-4 cups of warm water creates a solution to cut through dirt, but should be used with caution because it can make laminate floors shiny over time.
4. Manufacturer-Approved Laminate Cleaners
Commercial laminate floor cleaners clean better than other products and leave no moisture behind when used according to the label directions.
5. Spot Cleaning with a Microfibre Cloth
When cleaning up spills or spots, put a small amount of the cleaner on a microfiber cloth and wipe gently over the area instead of spraying the cleaner onto the floor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving a Lasting Shine
- Sweep or vacuum thoroughly
- Lightly damp mop using a safe cleaning solution
- Work in small sections
- After dust mopping, dry the area with a clean cloth right away.
- Let that area air dry completely.
Pro tip: For a streak-free finis,h always mop in the same direction as the boards of the floor.
Deep Cleaning Laminate Floors (When Needed)
Though laminate floors do not/need to be deep-cleaned often, it may be necessary to deep-clean them every 2-3 months for rejuvenation..
Deep-clean safely by:
- Removing all furniture and rugs
- Vacuum the edges & corners of the surface carefully.
- Using a slightly stronger (but still gentle) cleaner
- Immediately dry both after mopping.
Never use a steam cleaner, as steam will run and cause water leakage, damaging the laminate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Laminate Floors
To keep your floors in good condition, do not do these things:
- Steam mopping your floors
- Soaking or leaving the floor wet
- Waxing or polishing laminate surfaces
- Using abrasive pads or steel wool
- Ammonia- or bleach-based cleaners
Laminate floors will have a natural shine and do not need to be polished.
How to Remove Stubborn Stains Safely
- Scuff marks: Gently clean with a soft cloth dampened with a weak vinegar solution.
- Sticky residue: Apply warm water and gently wipe
- Grease stains: Gently rub with a damp sponge and mild dish soap.
- Crayon or ink: Using a cotton ball, wipe with rubbing alcohol (always do a test spot first).
Always make sure to completely dry the cleaned surface promptly after cleaning for best results.
Long-Term Maintenance Tips for Laminate Flooring
To keep your floors looking new for years:
- Use door mats at entrances
- Place felt pads under furniture items
- Clean spills immediately
- Don’t drag heavy objects
- Keep your pets’ nails trimmed.
These small habits make a big difference.
Final Thoughts: Clean Smarter, Not Harder
Cleaning laminate flooring doesn’t have to be hard. With the right tools, mild cleaning products, and smart cleaning habits, you can have beautiful, streak-free, and shiny laminate floors without causing damage.
Upgrade your flooring and get professional assistance for Laminate Floor Care at Q Flooring, with high-quality flooring options and quality flooring products to suit your home and lifestyle.
Contact us now for flooring options and expert advice, and let our specialists help you choose the perfect floor for your space.
