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Although laminate flooring can resemble hardwood, it’s actually quite different. Laminate is less expensive than hardwood, easier to install, more durable, and requires less upkeep. However, laminate and moisture don’t mix well. Exposure to excess moisture causes the high-density composite wood to swell and warp. We spoke with a cleaning expert who shared the proper cleaning techniques to help your laminate floors stay pristine for years to come.
How Frequently Should You Clean Laminate Floors?
The frequency of cleaning your laminate floors largely depends on your lifestyle. Wipe up spills and muddy footprints right away, and make sure to remove dust, crumbs, and dirt at least once a week. If you have pets, children, or high foot traffic, it’s advisable to vacuum or dry-mop more often to avoid scratches that could dull the surface. If your home is relatively low-traffic, deep cleaning every two to three months is sufficient.
ProCreators/Getty ImagesWhat You'll Need to Get Started
Required Equipment and Tools
- Vacuum without a beater bar, dry dust mop
- Microfiber mop or cloths (such as Swiffer)
- Spray bottle
Necessary Materials
- Commercial laminate floor cleaner (such as Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner or Rejuvenate All-Floors Cleaner)
- Distilled white vinegar or isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Clean Laminate Floors Using a Cleaning Solution
Laminate wood flooring is made from several layers: compressed composite wood, a printed design layer, and a top wear layer that is scratch-resistant. This construction provides a slight bounce, making it comfortable to walk on. Laminate floors require less cleaner and liquid compared to other floor types. Here’s the best way to clean them.
Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
To capture dirt, dust, and debris on laminate floors, use a dry dust mop, electrostatic disposable cloth, or a vacuum. If you vacuum, ensure it’s a vacuum designed for hard floors and that the beater bar is turned off. A traditional broom may leave dirt in the seams between the laminate planks. Also, remember to lift any rugs or mats and clean underneath them.
Laminate floors are susceptible to scuff marks. To remove scuffs from shoes or furniture, buff the area with a slightly abrasive microfiber cloth or even a clean tennis ball. Alternatively, use a pink school eraser or art gum. Dampen the scuff and simply rub it away.
Choose a Cleaning Solution or Create One Yourself
There are numerous commercial laminate floor cleaners available, so check the labels to ensure the product is suitable for laminate. Avoid using hardwood floor cleaners or wax on laminate unless it’s a product like Zep, which is formulated for both hardwood and laminate surfaces.
To save on costs and still achieve a streak-free shine, make your own laminate floor cleaner by mixing 2 quarts of water with either 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar or 1/2 cup isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and label it for easy access.
Mop the Floor with a Damp Cloth
Lightly mist a small section of the freshly vacuumed floor with the cleaner you’ve selected, being cautious not to soak the surface. (If the floor doesn’t dry in about a minute, you’ve applied too much liquid).
Using a microfiber mop, work in a grid pattern starting from one corner of the room to ensure no spots are missed. If the floor is heavily soiled, rinse the mop head as necessary and wring it out until it’s only slightly damp.
Buff to Achieve a Glossy Finish
To bring out a shine once your floor is cleaned, buff it using a microfiber cloth in one of these three methods:
- Use a fresh, dry microfiber mop
- Place a microfiber cloth beneath the mop head
- Clean on your hands and knees with a microfiber cloth for better reach.
No matter which method you use, work in small circular motions and buff the floor to achieve a glossy finish.
As per Maker, polishing laminate wood floors isn’t necessary. In fact, using polish or wax can actually damage laminate surfaces and create streaks that are impossible to remove.
How to Maintain a Cleaner Laminate Floor for a Longer Time
Regular sweeping and vacuuming of your laminate floors will help them stay cleaner for a longer period. Spot-cleaning stains right when they happen with a microfiber cloth will also keep your floors looking pristine.
The best way to maintain a clean floor is by addressing spills immediately and taking steps to prevent future messes. "You might want to wear socks, slippers, or indoor shoes to avoid transferring oil and sweat from your feet onto the floor—yes, this is a thing," says Maker.
To ensure the longevity of your flooring, avoid using aggressive beater bars on vacuums. While effective on carpets, they can dent or scratch laminate surfaces. Additionally, avoid excess moisture—dripping mop buckets and steam cleaners can introduce too much water, which may seep into the joints and cause warping.
How to Tackle Stains on Laminate Floors
Removing stains from laminate requires careful attention to avoid damaging the surface. Here’s how Maker suggests handling an oil stain:
- Blot the area with a paper towel to remove as much residue as possible.
- Apply a small amount of dish soap to the stain, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush to lift the stain without scratching.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
- If the stain persists, use a small amount of rubbing alcohol to cover it, then let it sit briefly.
- Brush the area again, blot up any excess, and clean with soapy water.
How to Eliminate Streaks on Laminate Floors
To avoid streaks or a hazy film on your laminate floors, selecting the right cleaner and using the proper amount is key:
- If using a commercial cleaner, make sure it’s specifically formulated for laminate floors.
- If making a DIY cleaner with vinegar or rubbing alcohol, don’t worry about streaking since these ingredients won’t leave any residue.
- Avoid using all-purpose cleaners, dishwashing liquid, or floor waxes that promise extra shine.
- Use only a small amount of cleaning product, ensuring the floor doesn’t stay wet for longer than two minutes.
- Buff the floor with a dry microfiber mop or cloth to prevent streaks. One of our favorite mops is Swiffer.
