How to Keep Laminate Floors Looking Their Best

When it comes to choosing flooring for your home, there are many options, all with their own pros and cons. Hardwood floors are a classic choice, but many homeowners are choosing laminate flooring as a more convenient and cost-efficient alternative. While a good laminate can look just as great as hardwood, their maintenance needs are very different. It’s important to know how to care for your flooring if you want to avoid costly replacements down the road. Laminate flooring can be fairly easy to clean, maintain, and keep them looking new and glossy – but before you start, make sure you check out the instructions provided by the manufacturer, as there could be some specific tips and tricks in there. Otherwise, here’s a great start when it comes to learning how to keep your laminate floors looking their best

Clean slate

Most importantly is prevention, so you want to act quickly when it comes to spills and messes. Placing a mat under your pets’ water and food bowl is a common step many homeowners forget, and come to regret later. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to put a mat under your high chairs, or even by the sink. When it comes to regular cleaning, you want to make sure you get all the loose dirt and debris up before following with a cleaning solution to avoid rubbing abrasive material into your floors.

Routine cleaning

Once you have all the dirt and debris cleaned off, laminate floors do really well with regular mopping. If you are using a store bought cleaner, make sure it is specially made for cleaning laminate flooring, and follow the package’s instructions. If you prefer a more DIY and natural house cleaner, you can mix a gallon of hot water and a teaspoon of clear, unscented dish soap. If you notice that your floor has some waxy build-up, you can mix a gallon of hot water and a cup of white vinegar to help remove it. With these methods, you want to make sure you’re using a microfiber mop and keeping it damp (not drenched) to avoid water pooling. Afterwards, you’ll want to dry the floors off with a soft, clean towel.

Maintenance

Between your bi-monthly deep cleaning, you’ll want to make sure you are maintaining your work to ensure your flooring continues to look great, as well as last a long time. In addition to prevention, there are a few other steps that can help with longevity. One uncommon tip is to keep your heels at the front door, as walking around on laminate flooring in stilettos can cause damage over time. Along with that, keep your pets’ nails trimmed, and add pads under your furniture to prevent scratching. Stay away from any floor product that is pine-scented as it will leave a soapy and dull residue.

Flooring is a huge part of your home’s aesthetic, and it can make your space look beautiful or get dirty very easily. Keeping your laminate flooring clean and glossy is key to keeping a kept home. Fortunately, these tips plus a simple and regular routine can help you keep your house looking its absolute best for you and all your loved ones to enjoy.