Laminate flooring is affordable and comes in many styles. It’s also durable, so it’s great for homes with kids and pets. However, it must be properly cared for once installed if you want to keep it looking nice long-term. Here’s how to clean laminate floors properly. Check out our laminate flooring guide for more tips on maintenance and best practices.
Tools for Cleaning Laminate Floors
To effectively clean your laminate floors, you’ll need the right tools. Some are essential for daily maintenance, while others are useful for deeper cleaning sessions.
Recommended Cleaning Tools
- Microfiber cloths
- Microfiber mop
- Soft-bristled broom or dust mop
- Spray mop
- Vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
When using a microfiber mop, keep the mop head moving in one continuous motion with the grain of the laminate pattern—not back and forth. Look for a microfiber mop head treated with a positive electric charge, which captures dust and pet hair more effectively. For sticky debris, attack it as soon as possible with a damp cloth and a small squirt of floor cleaner; if you don’t like to crouch, plant one foot on a rag and rub vigorously.
When vacuuming laminate, always use a soft floor nozzle—carpet beaters and brush rolls can damage the finish. If you prefer a hands-off approach, a robot vacuum can do the work for you; shop for one that will last at least an hour before stopping to recharge. For regular dustbusting, a HEPA-filter vacuum is ideal for capturing fine particles that would otherwise be launched back into the room.
Pro Tip: Brett Miller, a technical expert at the National Wood Flooring Association, warns against using “too much water, any amount of steam!” on floor surfaces. Steam mops may seem convenient, but the moisture and heat they generate can damage your laminate’s protective finish and cause the fiberboard core to swell.
Tools To Avoid
To protect your laminate floors, steer clear of these cleaning tools that can damage laminate:
- Abrasive scrubbers or steel wool
- Steam mops
- Vacuum cleaners with beater bars
- Wet mops or string mops
Daily Maintenance for Laminate Floors: Sweeping and Vacuuming
Regular sweeping and vacuuming remove dirt and debris that can discolor and scratch the surface over time.
Proper Sweeping Techniques
When sweeping laminate floors, use a soft-bristled broom or dust mop. Sweep in the direction of the planks to avoid pushing dirt into the seams. For corners and edges, use a small brush or dustpan to collect debris.
Safe Vacuuming Practices
When vacuuming laminate floors, always use the hardwood setting to prevent the beater brush from spinning. Use the vacuum’s soft brush attachment to avoid scratching the surface. Move the vacuum in the direction of the planks, just as you would when sweeping.
Mopping Laminate Floors
While laminate floors are not waterproof, you can mop them safely if you follow the proper techniques. The key is to use minimal moisture to avoid damaging the flooring.
Choosing the Right Mop
Select a microfiber mop or a spray mop designed for laminate floors. These mops allow you to control the amount of moisture applied to the floor, reducing the risk of water damage.
Proper Mopping Techniques
When mopping, use a damp—not wet—mop. Mop in the direction of the planks, using long strokes. Avoid using excessive water, as this can seep into the seams and cause swelling or warping.
Drying After Mopping
After mopping, dry the floor to prevent water damage. Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or towel to wipe up any excess moisture. Pay special attention to corners and edges where water might collect.
Cleaning Solutions for Laminate Floors
Using the right cleaning solution is essential for maintaining the beauty and integrity of your laminate floors. Some store-bought options are specifically designed for laminate, while do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions can be equally effective.
Store-Bought Laminate Floor Cleaners
Many manufacturers make cleaning solutions specifically for laminate floors. These products are formulated to clean effectively without leaving residue or damaging the protective layer of your flooring.
DIY Cleaning Solutions
You can create effective cleaning solutions at home using common household items. Here are two simple recipes:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of clear, unscented dish soap with 1 gallon of warm water.
- Combine 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water for a natural cleaning solution.
Solutions To Avoid
Avoid these cleaning agents to protect your laminate floors:
- Ammonia-based cleaners
- Abrasive cleaners
- Wax or oil-based products
- Bleach or chlorine
Dealing With Stubborn Stains and Spills on Laminate Floors
Accidents happen, but quick action and the right techniques can prevent permanent damage to your laminate floors.
Quick-Response Cleaning
When spills occur, wipe them up immediately with a soft, absorbent cloth. For sticky spills, use a slightly damp cloth to remove the residue, then dry the area thoroughly.
Stain Removal Techniques
For tough stains, try these methods:
- Chewing gum or wax: Allow the substance to harden, then gently scrape it off with a plastic scraper.
- Ink or marker: Dab the area with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol.
- Oil-based stains: Use a small amount of acetone-based nail polish remover on a cloth, then wipe the area clean.
Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the laminate.
Protecting Your Laminate Floors
Prevention is key to maintaining your laminate floors’ beauty. By taking a few simple precautions, you can significantly reduce wear and tear.
Preventive Measures
- Use doormats at entrances to trap dirt and moisture.
- Remove shoes before walking on laminate floors.
- Trim pet nails regularly to prevent scratches.
- Clean spills immediately to prevent staining.
Pro Tip: Jeff Hosking, a floor expert featured in TOH Magazine, warns that laminate is more scratch-resistant than any wood floor—but once it does scratch, the damage is permanent. “I expect plastic laminate floors to last 8 to 15 years,” he says. “By then the homeowner gets tired of looking at the scratches and replaces the floor.” Since laminate can’t be sanded and refinished, prevention is your only real defense.
Why Doormats Matter: According to research cited by TOH Magazine, about 60 percent of dust particles travel indoors on shoes. The editors recommend laying down a runway of protection: a mat outside to scrape off dirt, one inside to grab grit and moisture, and a hard, moppable floor beyond that. Or simply take off your shoes at the door.
Vacuuming the Right Way: Not all vacuum settings are safe for laminate. As TOH Magazine advises, always vacuum with a soft floor nozzle—carpet beaters and brush rolls can damage the finish. Robot vacuums can handle routine upkeep, but look for one that will run at least an hour before recharging. For sticky debris, attack it as soon as possible with a damp cloth, a tiny squirt of floor cleaner, and a vigorous rub.
Using Furniture Pads
Attach felt pads to the legs of furniture to prevent scratches when moving items. Replace these pads regularly, as they can wear down over time.
Common Mistakes To Avoid With Laminate Floors
To keep your laminate floors in top condition, avoid these common cleaning mistakes:
- Allowing water to pool on the floor
- Letting spills sit for a long time
- Using abrasive cleaning tools or solutions
- Using steam mops or wet mops
- Using too much water when mopping
Maintaining Laminate in High-Traffic Areas
High-traffic areas require extra attention to maintain their appearance.
- Place area rugs in frequently used spaces to reduce wear.
- Sweep or vacuum these areas more frequently.
- Use chair mats under rolling office chairs.
- Rotate furniture periodically to distribute wear evenly.
Grit Is the Enemy: Pat Hunt, a flooring contractor who has worked on a number of This Old House projects, warns that tracked-in grit is one of the biggest threats to any floor finish: “When you walk into the house from outdoors, particularly in the winter, the bottoms of your shoes are like sandpaper.” He strongly suggests putting down nonslip mats at every entry point to catch debris before it reaches your laminate.
Seasonal Cleaning Tips for Laminate Floors
Different seasons bring challenges for laminate floor maintenance. Adjust your cleaning routine accordingly to keep your floors in top shape year-round.
Spring and Summer Cleaning
- Clean air conditioning vents to reduce dust circulation.
- Increase cleaning frequency to address pollen and dust.
- Use dehumidifiers to control moisture levels.
Fall and Winter Maintenance
- Maintain indoor humidity levels to prevent gaps between planks.
- Place mats near entrances to catch snow and salt.
- Use a slightly damp mop to remove salt residue.
