Once you have your new laminate flooring installed, it should look great and form a fine centrepiece of your room. The product will come with a warranty that will last for a number of years or even for a lifetime. But even so, that pristine new floor will not remain so forever as dirt, spillages, impacts and all manner of unforeseen events will come along.
So the challenge is to ensure that the laminate floor stays looking as good as new even when it no longer actually is new. Dirt and dust can dull a once-shiny floor, with particles causing tiny scratches. The wrong chemicals can do likewise and getting the floor wet can spell trouble.
The good news is, there are many things the householder can do to keep a laminate floor in good shape. The important factor to remember is that while such a floor is relatively low-maintenance and simple to keep looking good, there are mistakes that should be avoided to prevent problems occurring.
Laminate Floor Cleaner
If your laminate floor needs cleaning, it may be a simple and quick process. Should you spill something, clean it up quickly. A dried-on substance may need a stronger cleaning chemical and it is important to only use the items that the manufacturer recommends. This is important because if the wrong products – which can include wax and polish - are used they may contain ingredients that damage the laminate.
Laminate Flooring Maintenance Products
The products to be used should not just be the chemical ones the manufacturer approves, but also items that can help with the day-to-day cleaning of the floor. For example, doormats can help by ensuring that dirt from outside is deposited where it should be, rather than walked into the house and onto the floor. Mats that can protect the floor from getting wet are another useful item.
Pads placed below table legs and chair castors are another practical item that can help prevent dents forming.
And when the floor does get dirty, a mop and a cloth are the main tools that can be used alongside a soft broom.
Cleaning Laminate Floors
When cleaning laminate floors, there are many dos and donts. One thing to remember is that these are not waterproof floors, so while any spills should be cleaned up quickly, nothing more than a damp cloth should be used – and this then dried off. Using a wet mop that will soak the material spells trouble, as this can seep into and under the laminate, causing it to warp and lose its shape. These should be merely damp and the surface dried off once it is cleaned.
Secondly, the floor can suffer abrasion from the use of harsh scouring devices, so keep the scrubbing pads and similar items in the cupboard. A daily brushing with a soft-bristled broom should help keep dirt off without damaging the surface.
Also, furniture should never be pushed or dragged across the floor as this is likely to cause damage. If a minor scratch does occur, this does not mean a plank needs to be replaced, with hardware stores offering repair kits.
Ultimately, the key is to take good care of your laminate floor. It is built to last and, if treated properly, it will.
