Laminate floors require a special kind of maintenance to keep them gleaming. To get yours to pass the Risky Business white-sock test, follow these easy tips.
Protect ‘Em
• Wipe up wet spills immediately. Water + Laminate = Disaster
• Place mats under your furry friend’s water bowl and consider a mat under your baby’s high chair.
• Don’t use anything that promotes a shine. These cause waxy buildup that is very difficult to remove.
• Avoid pine scented cleaners. These cleaners leave a dull, soapy residue.
• Steer clear of Murphy’s Oil. It leaves major streaks on laminate.
• Vinegar is widely debated. It’s acidic which isn’t the best for your laminate surface, but many people swear by a little bit of vinegar and a lot of hot water to cut pet grime. Used in abundance, though, it can remove the protective seal on your floors.
• Traditional wet mopping is a no-no!
• No stiletto heels on laminate. Pop those foxy shoes on at your front door on your way out!
• Trim pet nails. The mad dash to bark at the mailman can scrape off the protective layer on your laminate, allowing water to intrude at cleaning time.
• For the same reason, place furniture pads under all table and chair legs.
Maintenance Tips
• Sweep often. A soft-bristle broom can get up most of the pet hair, dust and dirt that collects on your floor.
• To grab the hard-to-reach dust in the corners of your rooms, use a soft-brush attachment on your vacuum.
• Use a damp mop: This means less water has the chance to seep in between your laminate seams. Use very hot water and a few drops of dish soap. Some products that work well are Bruce and Bona.
In A Pinch
• Use a steam mop occasionally for a very deep clean. Not daily, though, because the repeated use of steam can cause the laminate to buckle.
• You can use a window cleaner occasionally for spills but don’t over use ammonia, which can strip protective sealant.