How To Clean Laminate Flooring
Kris Eastwood • September 25, 2021
How To Clean Laminate Flooring
Floors for Less
has great flooring options for your home. As options like laminate
are becoming more popular, we thought we would help you with ideas on how to clean it and make it last. Just like every other flooring there are do’s and don’ts to help make your floors look great. Unlike other flooring options like hardwood, laminate
cannot be refinished if damaged. Most of the time, it is recommended that cleaning every two months will be beneficial. That’s why it is important to make sure you are cleaning the proper way.
Keep damage down to a minimum:
By keeping damage to a minimum, cleaning can be made easy. You can manage this by wearing nonabrasive shoes, unlike high heels, trimming your animals paws and using protective furniture pads. Along with these, try accenting your flooring with welcome mats or area rugs to help reduce dirt buildup and reduce damage. This will help prevent any damage and help make your laminate last and look great for years to come as well as help with cleaning.
Along with physical damage, water damage can be a problem. When mopping, letting too much water on your floor can cause damage. When mopping, make sure to wring extra moisture from the mop or pad to make sure that it is only damp and not soaking. There are special tools like microfiber mops and Swiffer's that also work well.
Cleaners:
Always make sure to double check any instructions that are provided with your flooring. They have insights for how to clean and what chemicals to use or what to avoid. After that, there might be some great cleaners to keep on hand for your flooring. There are certain products to avoid to limit damage like oil based cleaners and polishes used for real wood flooring.
Household products:
When cleaning your floors, you might consider a homemade solution like dish soap and water or vinegar and water to reduce buildup. When stains or spills occur, you can spot treat as needed with other ideas, like using ice to freeze anything sticky like gum to remove it with less damage. As for crayons or wax, it would be beneficial to scrape the residue off first without scrubbing. Gently removing with a butter knife would be a good example of how to do this. For other stains like paint or pen ink, try using rubbing alcohol to gently remove.
Floors For Less Can Help With All Flooring Needs:
Floors For Less
is here for you to find the perfect flooring fit and help you with cleaning products as well. We are flooring experts so you will be in the right place when asking us any question about your floors. We want to know what your favorite laminate flooring cleaner is. Let us know!
Upgrade your flooring today with engineered hardwood and enjoy a stylish, long-lasting solution tailored for Madison’s climate!
Stay ahead of the trends this winter by upgrading your flooring with stylish and practical options that suit Madison’s climate.
Madison, WI, experiences a challenging freeze-thaw cycle during the winter months, which can take a toll on your flooring. Fluctuating temperatures and moisture can cause floors to expand, contract, and even warp if not properly prepared. Here’s how to protect your floors and ensure they withstand Madison’s winter conditions.  Understand the Freeze-Thaw Cycle’s Impact on Flooring The freeze-thaw cycle refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture in and around your home. This cycle can: Cause hardwood floors to expand and contract, leading to gaps or buckling. Lead to moisture seeping into tile grout, causing cracks or loosening tiles. Result in water damage to carpets and other porous flooring materials. Steps to Prepare Your Floors 1. Seal Hardwood Floors Sealing hardwood floors helps prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. A high-quality sealant acts as a barrier, reducing the risk of warping or swelling during temperature changes. 2. Use Floor Mats and Rugs Place floor mats at entryways to trap snow, salt, and moisture brought in from outside. Adding rugs in high-traffic areas can provide an extra layer of protection for your floors. 3. Maintain Humidity Levels Use a humidifier to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This prevents hardwood floors from drying out or expanding due to excess moisture. 4. Clean Regularly Dust and debris can scratch floors and make them more susceptible to damage. Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors regularly with appropriate cleaning solutions to maintain their integrity. 5. Inspect and Repair Grout For tiled floors, check the grout for cracks or signs of wear. Repairing damaged grout prevents water from seeping beneath the tiles, which can cause lifting or cracking during freeze-thaw cycles . 6. Apply Waterproofing Solutions For areas prone to moisture, such as basements or mudrooms, consider applying a waterproofing solution to your floors. This added protection minimizes water-related damage. 7. Use Non-Slip Rugs and Pads Winter can make floors slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Use non-slip rugs and pads to enhance safety while protecting your floors. Benefits of Preparing Your Floors Longevity : Proper preparation extends the lifespan of your flooring. Cost Savings : Avoid costly repairs or replacements caused by winter damage. Enhanced Comfort : Well-maintained floors contribute to a warm and inviting home environment. To explore durable and winter-ready flooring options, visit Floors for Less. Let us help you find the perfect solution for Madison’s challenging winters. FAQs About Protecting Floors During Freeze-Thaw Cycles What is the freeze-thaw cycle? It refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture during winter months. How does the freeze-thaw cycle affect hardwood floors? It can cause expansion, contraction, and warping if floors are not properly prepared. What type of flooring is best for freeze-thaw conditions? Hardwood with proper sealing, waterproof tiles, and moisture-resistant materials work best. How can I prevent moisture damage to my floors? Use sealants, waterproofing solutions, and maintain proper humidity levels indoors. Should I use rugs during winter? Yes, rugs protect floors from scratches, moisture, and salt brought in from outside. How often should I inspect my floors in winter? Regularly check for signs of damage, especially after extreme weather changes. Are waterproof flooring solutions worth it? Yes, they provide added protection against water damage and are ideal for high-moisture areas. Preparing your hardwood floors for Madison freeze-thaw cycle is essential to protect your investment and ensure your home remains cozy and safe throughout the winter. Contact Floors for Less today for expert advice and premium flooring solutions!
