The challenge with floors is keeping them looking fresh for as long as possible. The good news is that many things can be done to keep a laminate floor in good shape. Laminate flooring is relatively low-maintenance and simple to keep looking good, which is what makes it a favourite for any room from your bedroom to the living room. We've put this guide together to avoid the care mistakes that could lead you to problems down the line.
Get the right stuff
You will want to make sure you have the right tools for the job when it comes to cleaning. In addition to any manufacturer-recommended chemicals, it can be useful to shop for products that aid in the day-to-day cleaning of the floor. As obvious as it sounds, make sure you have mats placed at any exterior exits - these will help stop the dirt and wet from being walked through the house.
When the floor does get marked and stained, a well rung mop, a cloth, and even a soft broom are the perfect tools to set things right again. To prevent dents from forming over time remember to place felt pads below table legs and chair castors, especially in areas like the dining room where your furniture will be frequently moved and more likely to scratch your floor.
Cleaning and maintenance
When it comes to the day-to-day maintenance of laminate, your floor only needs vacuuming, dusting with a dry cloth, and occasional brushing when dirt gets in. When it comes to the full clean, there are a few things to consider. First, these floors are not waterproof so all spills should be cleaned up quickly. Don't use anything wetter than a damp cloth - a wet mop will soak the material which can seep into and under the floor, causing it to warp and lose shape. This applies even when it comes to water-resistant laminate, such as our Audacity and Aqualock ranges.
Secondly, the surface of the floor can easily suffer from abrasion if you use harsh scouring devices to clean it, so avoid using scrubbing pads and similar items no matter how stubborn the stain. Brushing with a soft-bristled broom will help shift the dirt without damaging your lovely floor. Similarly, never push or drag furniture over the floor as this is likely to cause damage. In the unfortunate event that a minor scratch does occur, you can purchase repair kits to save you from having to replace the plank.
Restore the shine on your laminate floor
As laminate flooring gathers dirt over time it will lose its original shine. Instead of leaving the floor looking dull and dirty, homeowners should spend a little time and effort to restore the shine on their laminate flooring.
Start by performing your usual day-to-day cleaning, then mop the floor with a rung-out cloth-strip mop, wetted just by water and some vinegar to prevent water spots from forming. If this is not enough, the shine is likely buried beneath residue built up from cleaning products over time. Wipe at a small area of the floor with undiluted vinegar until a shiny spot is revealed, then set to work on the rest of the floor.
If removing the residue fails to make the laminate floor shine again, then the surface of the floor is probably worn out from age and not much can be done to restore it. In this case, using a floor shiner or applying a coat or two of floor polish can be effective in adding in the shine.
Ultimately, the key is to take good care of your laminate floor as regular cleaning will help maintain the shine. Checking out our recommended after care range will ensure you have all the tools to do this. It is built to last and, if treated properly, it will.
