How to Care for Laminate Flooring: A Complete Guide

There’s a reason homeowners in Arizona love laminate flooring. It offers the perfect blend of style and practicality, but keeping it looking its best requires proper care. 

At Baker Bros, we've helped countless Arizona homeowners maintain their laminate floors, and we're sharing our expert tips to help you protect your investment.

This guide covers everything you need to know about how to care for laminate flooring, from daily upkeep to tackling tough stains so your floors stay spotless and long-lasting.

Daily Care and Maintenance

Your laminate floor collects dirt and debris every day, but with simple routine care, you can keep it looking fresh. Here's how to maintain your laminate flooring without damaging its protective surface.

Regular Cleaning Essentials

Start with the right tools. A soft bristle broom or dust mop is your first line of defense against daily dirt. For the best results, use a microfiber cloth which effectively traps dust without scratching your floor's surface.

• Dust and Dirt Removal: Dirt and debris act like sandpaper, scratching your floor’s surface over time. To prevent this, sweep daily with a soft bristle broom or use a dust mop.
• Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment to avoid damaging the laminate’s protective layer.
• Area Rugs and Mats: Placing area rugs in high-traffic zones and near entryways can minimize the amount of dirt that collects on your floors.

Dealing with Spills

You need to act fast when it comes to spills. While modern laminate is more resistant to moisture than ever, standing water remains its biggest enemy. Wipe up spills immediately with a clean, slightly damp cloth, and always dry the area thoroughly afterward.

Deep Cleaning Your Laminate

Sometimes regular cleaning isn't enough, and your floors need a deeper clean. Here's how to deep clean effectively without damaging your laminate:

• Food and Drink Spills: Wipe up spills immediately using a damp microfiber cloth. For stubborn spots, a mild cleaning solution can help break down residue.
• Candle Wax or Chewing Gum: Gently scrape off hardened wax or gum using a plastic knife to avoid scratching the surface.

• Ink, Nail Polish, or Paint: Dampen a microfiber cloth with a small amount of nail polish remover (acetone-based) and gently blot the stain. Avoid scrubbing, as this can damage the protective layer.
• Scuff Marks: Use a soft sponge and a laminate-safe cleaner to buff out scuffs without harming the finish.

Preventive Care Tips

Taking care of your laminate flooring prevents damage before it happens. The proper preventive measures can significantly extend your floor's life and keep it looking beautiful for years to come. Let's explore some key strategies for protecting your laminate flooring.

Using Area Rugs Strategically

Place area rugs in high-traffic zones and entry points to catch dirt before it spreads across your laminate flooring. Focus on entryways, hallways, and areas near chairs that move frequently. 

When choosing rugs, choose ones with non-slip backing specifically designed for laminate floors. This prevents both dirt accumulation and potential scratching from rug movement.

Felt Pad Installation

Install felt pads under all furniture legs to prevent scratches when slight movements occur. Replace these pads every few months, as they can collect dirt and become less effective over time.

Proper Furniture Moving

Always lift furniture instead of dragging it across your laminate floor. Even with felt pads, dragging heavy pieces can cause deep scratches or damage to the flooring's protective wear layer.

What to Avoid for Long-Term Protection

Abrasive Materials

Never use steel wool or abrasive cleaners on your laminate floor. These materials can permanently scratch the protective wear layer, making your floor more susceptible to damage.

Water Management

Standing water is laminate flooring's worst enemy. Clean spills immediately and avoid wet mopping, which can cause swelling and warping of the boards.

Harmful Products

Skip the wax, polish, and oil-based cleaners. These products create buildup that dulls your floor's finish and can make future cleaning more difficult.

Improper Cleaning Tools

Steam mops and wet mops can force moisture between boards, leading to swelling and damage. Stick to damp mops with microfiber heads for safe cleaning.

Harsh Chemicals

Avoid bleach and ammonia-based products, which can break down your floor's protective layers and cause discoloration.

Signs You Need Professional Help

Board Separation

Gaps between boards often indicate moisture problems or improper installation that needs professional attention.

Floor Noises

Persistent squeaking might signal underlying issues with your subfloor or installation that require expert evaluation.

Moisture Concerns

Water damage signs, like swelling or discoloration, need an immediate professional assessment to prevent further damage.

Edge Problems

Lifting edges or corners can worsen quickly if not addressed by a professional, potentially leading to more extensive damage.

Visit Baker Bros for Expert Advice

Need specific guidance for your laminate floors? Visit our showroom to speak with our flooring experts. We can help you choose the right cleaning products and provide personalized maintenance tips for your specific flooring.