How to clean laminate flooring

Although laminate flooring doesn’t always last as long as other flooring types, its main benefit is that it is easier to clean and maintain. In this guide we share some simple how tos on the best way to clean laminate flooring. Firstly, ensure that your laminate has a water-resistant coating as this will ascertain what type of cleaning it requires. All our laminate flooring is classed as water resistant and can be used in bathrooms and kitchens, therefore you can wet clean them.

Never use a steam cleaner or mop on laminate flooring, the heat can cause the individual layers to peel back, causing lumps in the surface layer and damaging your flooring.

If fitted correctly, then a quick vacuum and mop is all your laminate flooring will need. Don’t use any abrasive cleaners, scouring powders or products that contain wax or oil as these will damage the layers of the product. You should never use wax, polish or soap on the laminate surface as it can damage the wear layer, creating smudges and a slippery surface.

Typically, laminate flooring has a wear layer over its printed layer, so the texture of laminate flooring is minimal in comparison to other flooring types such as LVT or porcelain. However, if your chosen flooring is slightly more textured then the type of mop you use to clean it is key. We’d recommend vacuuming first then sweeping it with a dry dust mop, then when you wet clean your floor, try using a dampened microfibre mop head to ensure it picks up the dirt. Alternatively, if you have some stubborn areas, you’ll need to use a spray and a microfibre cloth in that particular area and remove problematic dirt by hand.

If you spill paint on your laminate floor, then it’s best to wipe it up with a damp cloth immediately to avoid it drying down. However, if that moment has past then we’d recommend some dish soap and warm water, dampened your cloth and let it sit in the painted area for a couple of minutes to remoisten the paint and then wipe it away. If you’re very careful you can also try to scrape the top layer of paint off before applying the damp cloth but be careful not to scratch the surface. If the painted patch is particularly stubborn then you could use an acidic based product such as acetone or white vinegar but apply it very carefully and to just the paint splash, after a minute wipe it thoroughly with a clean cloth. If you’re using oil-based paint then rubbing alcohol will most likely be required.