The Ultimate DIY Guide: How to Clean Laminate Flooring

Maintaining the shine and beauty of laminate floors requires special care and cleaning methods. Regular sweeping, vacuuming, and occasional damp mopping can extend the life of these surfaces, but it’s crucial to use laminate floor cleaner and avoid excessive water, which can cause damage. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how to clean laminate flooring as they may have specific recommendations.

DIY cleaners like vinegar and water or mild dish soap can work well for laminate floors, but tough stains may require household hacks such as rubbing alcohol. This ultimate guide covers the best way to clean laminate flooring, including step-by-step processes, stain removal tips, and essential maintenance to protect your investment and keep laminate floors shining naturally.

Materials Needed

For cleaning laminate floors, consider using products specifically formulated for this surface. Some recommended options include:

• Zep Neutral pH Floor Cleaner (128 fl oz)
• Swiffer WetJet Lavender Vanilla Liquid Floor Cleaner (42.2 fl oz, 2-pack)
• Mr. Clean Professional Liquid Floor Cleaner (1 gallon)
• Bona Unscented Liquid Floor Cleaner (128 fl oz)
• Zep Hardwood and Laminate Liquid Floor Cleaner (128 fl oz)
• O-Cedar PACS Lavender Packet Floor Cleaner (10-count)

Alternatively, you can make a DIY cleaner by mixing:

• 1 teaspoon of dish soap per gallon of hot water
• Or a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 10 parts water

For tough stains like candle wax, ink, or stubborn marks, consider using:

• Ice to harden the stain, then scraping it off
• Rubbing alcohol
• Acetone nail polish remover or other mild solvent containing alcohol
• A teaspoon of unscented dish soap or baby shampoo in a gallon of water

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Maintaining the cleanliness and shine of laminate floors requires a systematic approach. Follow these step-by-step instructions for effective cleaning and long-lasting protection of your laminate flooring.

1. Daily Maintenance: Regularly sweep or vacuum the floors to remove dirt, dust, and debris that could potentially scratch the surface. Use a soft-bristle broom or vacuum with a hard floor setting and soft brush attachment.
2. Spot Cleaning: Clean up spills immediately by blotting the area with a dense microfiber cloth or sponge. Avoid rubbing or spreading the spill. For stubborn stains, use a mild laminate floor cleaner or DIY solution of water and vinegar.
3. Deep Cleaning: Every 2-3 months, damp mop the floors using a microfiber mop and laminate floor cleaner. Wring out the mop thoroughly to prevent excess water from seeping into the laminate planks.

• Avoid using too much water, as laminate floors are susceptible to moisture damage.
• Use cleaning products specifically formulated for laminate floors, steering clear of oil-based cleaners or harsh chemicals.
• For a DIY cleaner, mix 1 teaspoon of dish soap or a few drops of lemon juice per gallon of hot water.

4. Stain Removal: For tough stains like wax, ink, or scuffs, try using a small amount of rubbing alcohol, acetone nail polish remover, or a specialized laminate floor stain remover. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
5. Maintenance and Protection: Place felt pads under furniture legs and use area rugs in high-traffic zones to minimize scratches and dents. Trim pet nails regularly to prevent scratches from their claws.

Stain Removal Tips

Maintaining the cleanliness and shine of laminate floors requires a systematic approach to stain removal. Here are some effective tips for tackling tough stains on your laminate flooring:

• Wax or Crayon Stains: Place an ice cube or a plastic bag filled with ice on the stain to harden the wax or crayon. Once hardened, gently scrape off the excess using a plastic putty knife or credit card. Avoid using sharp metal objects that could scratch the surface.
• Ink or Permanent Marker Stains: Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol or acetone nail polish remover to a clean cloth and gently rub the stain. Be cautious, as these solvents can potentially damage the laminate finish if used excessively.
• Scuff Marks or Heel Marks: Make a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste onto the scuff mark using a soft-bristle brush or cloth, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
• Grease or Oil Stains: Sprinkle some cornstarch or baking soda over the stain and let it sit for several hours or overnight. The powder will absorb the grease or oil, making it easier to sweep or vacuum up.
• Sticky Spills: For sticky messes like soda, juice, or syrup, first blot up as much of the spill as possible with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towels. Then, make a solution of warm water and a few drops of dish soap or vinegar, and gently scrub the area with a soft-bristle brush or sponge.

Remember, always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor the laminate flooring. Prompt attention to spills and stains can prevent them from setting and becoming more difficult to remove.

Maintenance and Protection

Maintaining the cleanliness and shine of laminate floors requires a proactive approach to protection and care. Here are some essential tips to keep your laminate flooring looking its best:

• Use soft-bristle brooms, dust mops, and vacuum attachments without beater bars to clean laminate floors. Avoid using abrasive tools like steel wool, as they can scratch the surface.
• Place doormats at entrances to collect dirt from shoes, and use floor protectors under furniture legs to prevent scratches. Felt pads under furniture legs can also help prevent dents and scratches.
• Mop laminate floors every 2 months using a damp (not wet) microfiber mop to avoid excessive water damage. Skip harsh cleaning products not labeled for laminate use, as they can damage the protective sealant. Use mild dish soap and water or a solution of white vinegar and water instead of harsh cleaners.
• Place rugs in high-traffic areas to protect the floor. Trim pet’s nails regularly to avoid scratching the floor, and regularly sweep/vacuum if you have pets to remove excess hair and dirt.
• Laminate flooring is made up of 3 layers: a core layer, a decorative layer, and a wear layer. While more scratch-resistant than hardwood floors, the surface cannot be refinished if damaged. Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain mats at entrances to help prevent dirt from being tracked onto the floor, avoid wearing outdoor shoes (especially high heels) on the laminate floor, and never use a steam mop, as the moisture can damage the laminate.

Proactive protection and gentle cleaning are key to maintaining the beauty and longevity of laminate floors. By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your laminate flooring looking like new for years to come.