Laminate Flooring Care & Maintenance Guide

To care for laminate flooring, clean regularly with a soft brush or vacuum fitted with a parquet attachment, followed by dry dust cloths. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp microfiber mop with a pH-neutral laminate cleaner—never wet mop or steam clean. Remove spills immediately, use acetone sparingly for stubborn stains like nail polish, and avoid waxes or abrasive cleaners. With the right routine, laminate floors will stay beautiful and durable for years.

First-Time Cleaning After Installation

When your laminate flooring is first installed, give it a thorough clean to remove dust and residues:

1. Sweep or vacuum with a soft parquet brush to remove dust and grit.
2. Wipe with a dry dust cloth.
3. Replace the cloth and wipe again for best results.
4. If dirt remains, use a pH-neutral laminate cleaner (such as Bona).
5. Finish by going over the floor with a slightly damp cloth. Repeat if needed.

Daily Care – Dry Cleaning

• Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment, or electrostatic dust cloths that attract dust and hair.
• Work lengthways along the panels, in a zigzag motion, with long overlapping strokes.
• Avoid traditional brooms with stiff bristles, which may scratch the surface.

Weekly or Intensive Cleaning – Slightly Damp Mop

Laminate flooring is not water-resistant—avoid wet mopping.

• Use a well-wrung microfiber cloth or mop.
• Clean lengthways along the panels in smooth zigzag strokes, without applying pressure.
• Immediately wipe away any puddles or excess water with a dry cloth.

Stain & Spot Cleaning Guide

• Grease stains: Mix 50 ml of methylated spirits in 5–8L of clean water, mop with a well-wrung cloth, and repeat if residue persists.
• Rubber marks, scuffs, pencil or crayon marks: Wipe with a dry cloth.
• Fruit, juice, milk, beer, wine, tea, soft drinks: Absorb immediately with a cloth; if dried, use a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
• Blood, urine: Remove quickly with a damp cloth, then clean with recommended laminate cleaner.
• Nail polish, shoe polish, varnish, ink, make-up, felt pen: Apply a drop of acetone on a clean cloth, treating only the stain. Always follow safety instructions.

Long-Term Laminate Care Tips

1. Avoid wet cleaning—excess moisture can swell or warp laminate.
2. Protect against scratches: Use felt pads under furniture and avoid dragging heavy objects.
3. Entry mats: Place mats at entrances to reduce dirt and grit.
4. Avoid waxes, oils, or polishes—laminate does not absorb these and they leave residue.
5. Tackle spills immediately to prevent staining.

Conclusion

Laminate flooring combines the beauty of wood with easy maintenance, but it needs the right care routine to stay in top condition. By cleaning regularly, using the right products, and preventing water damage, your laminate floors will stay stylish and durable for years to come.

For expert advice on maintaining your laminate flooring—or to explore new options—visit your local Flooring Design store.