Experts reveal how to properly clean laminate flooring and why water is its biggest enemy
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
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- Laminate flooring is popular for its durability and aesthetic appeal, mimicking wood or stone, but its protective layer is not invincible.
- Immediate action is crucial for spills; absorb liquids without rubbing to prevent spreading or damage to the seams, which are the laminate's weakest point.
- Water is the primary enemy of laminate's core, so avoid excessive moisture; use a damp, not wet, cloth with mild detergent or vinegar solution for cleaning, and always dry with a microfiber cloth.
Laminate flooring has become a favored choice for its ability to convincingly replicate the look of wood or stone while offering robust resistance to daily wear and tear. Its top protective layer is designed to withstand the rigors of modern life, but it is not impervious to accidents.
The most important rule with any spilled liquid... is to act immediately.
The most critical rule when dealing with any liquid spill, be it wine, juice, or coffee, is to act immediately. The longer a stain sits, the deeper it penetrates the protective layer, making it harder to remove. The key is to absorb the liquid, not to rub it. Using a soft cloth or paper towel, gently blot the spill to prevent it from spreading or seeping into the seams between the planks, which represent the laminate's most vulnerable area.
Water poses the greatest threat to the laminate's core, making it essential to avoid over-wetting the floor. Before resorting to harsh chemicals, it's important to know what is safe and what is not. For regular cleaning and sticky residue removal, a simple solution of warm water with a few drops of mild, clear dish soap or a bit of white vinegar is often sufficient. The cloth used for cleaning should be damp, never wet. Always follow up by wiping the surface with a dry microfiber cloth.
Water is the biggest enemy of the laminate core, so it is crucial to avoid over-wetting the floor.
A range of products should be strictly avoided. Abrasive powders, steel wool, or coarse scrubbing pads will permanently scratch and damage the protective layer. Similarly, waxes or polishes intended for wooden floors create a dull, sticky film on laminate that attracts dirt and is extremely difficult to remove. Laminate is designed to shine without additional polishing. Different types of stains require a targeted approach. For everyday food, tea, or wine stains, after absorbing excess liquid, wipe the area with a damp cloth and a mild detergent solution. For greasy stains, a paste of baking soda and water can be effective. Always start with the mildest solution and test any cleaning product on an inconspicuous area first.
Abrasive powders, steel wool, or coarse scrubbing pads will permanently scratch and damage the protective layer.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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