Laminate flooring has been a popular choice for homeowners for many years, because of its known durability. However, to ensure your laminate flooring retains its beauty and functionality for years to come, proper maintenance is essential.
In this blog post, we will provide you with simple things you can do to maintain your laminate flooring and make sure it stays looking good for a long time!
Have a regular cleaning routine
The first thing that will benefit you is to have a regular cleaning routine.
You should start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove loose dirt and debris. (Avoid using a vacuum with a beater bar attachment as it can scratch the surface, instead, opt for a vacuum with a hard floor setting or use a soft-bristle broom).
Next, damp mop the floor using a microfiber mop or a well-wrung mop. Avoid using excessive water, as laminate flooring is susceptible to moisture damage. Instead, lightly dampen the mop with a solution of warm water and a mild, pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for laminate floors.
Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or steam mops, as they can cause irreparable damage.
Try to prevent spills and stains
Preventing spills and stains is essential to maintain the pristine appearance of your laminate flooring.
Clean up spills immediately using a dry or slightly damp cloth, as liquids left standing on the floor can seep into the seams and cause the laminate to swell or warp, which is something you do not want.
Place mats or rugs in high-traffic areas, near entryways, and in front of sinks to catch dirt, moisture, and debris. This helps protect the laminate from scratches and reduces the likelihood of stains.
Please be a bit cautious when using furniture or appliances with casters or wheels on laminate flooring. It would be best to attach soft felt pads to the bottom of these items to prevent scratches and indentations.
Also, when moving heavy furniture, use furniture sliders or lift it rather than dragging it across the floor.
Protect your floor from scratches
While laminate flooring is generally scratch-resistant, taking precautions can help preserve its appearance.
If you can, avoid walking on the floor with shoes that have sharp or spiked heels, as they can leave marks.
Use doormats at all entry points to trap dirt and grit from shoes, as small particles can act like sandpaper and cause scratches over time. (Remember to regularly shake out or vacuum the doormats to remove accumulated debris).
If you have pets, trim your pets’ nails regularly to prevent them from scratching the laminate surface. If accidents occur, clean them up promptly to prevent staining or damage.
Deal with common issues
Over time, laminate flooring may face common issues such as minor scratches, scuffs, or dullness, do not worry about these as there are simple solutions!
For minor scratches or scuffs, use a laminate repair kit that matches the colour of your flooring. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fill in the scratch or scuff.
For dullness, use a laminate floor cleaner specifically formulated to restore shine. Follow the product instructions to rejuvenate the laminate surface.
We hope that these tips will help you maintain your laminate flooring so that you can continue to enjoy the way your flooring looks and feels.