Laminate Flooring Cleaning Tips

Laminate flooring may be made to look like other kinds of floors, but that doesn't mean it isn't unique in other ways. When it comes to cleaning laminate floors, for example, there are some definite do's and don'ts. True, when it comes to cleaning laminate isn't as demanding as, say, carpet or certain types of tile flooring. But it still needs thorough, periodic cleaning.

To begin with, the most important thing is to give your laminate floor a regular light sweeping. This prevents any dirt or grit from building up, detracting from your floor's appearance. It also reduces the dust that goes into the room's air.

If sweeping is not going to get the job done you can try damp mopping. Use water with a little vinegar in it and make sure to wring the mop out thoroughly before applying it to the floor. You don't want to use excessive water. In fact, any time you find standing water on your laminate floor, it should be soaked up immediately.

Sometimes a little extra elbow grease might be needed, in which case cleaning by hand with a cloth moistened with a cleaning solution should do the trick. Just make sure that the solution is one that the manufacturer of your laminate flooring has approved. Using the right cleaner will make the job easier and help remove sticky and stubborn substances. Once again, when the job is done, soak up any excess water.

Water and humidity are laminate flooring's enemies. For this reason you shouldn't even consider steam cleaning. Steam cleaning is fine for certain other floor types - like carpet and tile - but is highly likely to damage a laminate floor. If you're faced with cleaning challenges that the above methods just can't handle, you might try applying a little acetone or alcohol to the problem area and using a soft-bristled brush to scrub it. This method can often be used to successfully remove asphalt, paint, crayon and even cigarette burns.

And never let your laminate floor fool you: Even though it can be made to look just like real wood, it isn't - which means no sanding, refinishing or waxing. Also, avoid using cleaning products of an abrasive nature. And keep those harsh scouring pads and that steel wool away too. These will only cause scratching, and over time, more serious wear.

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