Laminate floors are a popular choice for many homeowners because they are affordable and easy to maintain. However, it is important to use the right cleaning products and methods to keep your floors looking their best. This article will discuss fourteen things that you should never use to clean your laminate floors.
1. Don’t Use A Vacuum Cleaner With A Beater Bar
When it comes to cleaning your laminate floors, there are some things that you should avoid. You should avoid using a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar.
The beater bar can damage the laminate flooring and cause many scratches on it. While vacuums with the beater bar are effective on carpets and rugs, it is not the best choice for laminate floors.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment instead. If you have to use a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar, make sure that you turn it off before you start cleaning.
If you’re interested, you can check out this vacuum, as it is specially made for laminate floors. It is made to clean laminate floors without damaging them and can perform other functions such as cleaning carpets and hardwood floors.
2. Never Use Steam Mops On Laminate Flooring
Another thing you should not use on your laminate flooring is a steam mop. The steam from the mop can damage the laminate and cause it to warp.
Laminate floors are made up of layers of different materials, and the steam from the mop can cause those layers to separate. In addition, using steam mops can ruin the overlay, which is the transparent layer on the top of the laminate.
The heat can also cause the decorative paper or the wood core fibers of the laminate underneath the overlay to expand and contract to cause the laminate to warp.
If you want to clean your laminate floors with a mop, use a damp mop instead of a steam mop. Ensure that the mop is not too wet, as this can damage the laminate flooring.
3. Don’t Use Waxes and Polishes On Laminate Floors
Another thing you must avoid at all costs when it comes to cleaning laminate floors is using waxes and polishes.
Laminate floors do not need to be waxed or polished. In fact, doing so can damage the flooring. In addition, the chemicals in the waxes and polishes can cause the laminate to be yellow or distort over time.
Waxes and polishes can also make the laminate flooring more slippery, which can be dangerous, especially for seniors and young children.
If you want to keep your laminate floors shining, use a cleaner that is specifically made for laminate floors. Many cleaners on the market will clean the floor and protect it from scratches and scuffs.
You should also avoid using any cleaners that contain waxes or polishes, as this can damage the laminate.
4. Don’t Use Pine Cleaners On Your Laminate Floors
Pine cleaners are cleaners that contain pine oil. Pine cleaners are not recommended for laminate floors as they can damage the flooring.
The pine oil can cause the laminate to warp and discolor. It can also leave a sticky residue on the floor, attracting dirt and dust.
If you want to clean your laminate floors, use a specifically designed cleaner for laminate floors.
5. Don’t Use Lemon Cleaners On Laminate Floors
Lemon cleaners are another type of cleaner that you should avoid using on your laminate floors. Lemon cleaners can also damage the flooring and leave a sticky residue.
In addition, lemon cleaners can make the flooring look dull and faded. So again, if you want to clean your laminate floors, use a cleaner that is specifically designed for laminate floors.
6. Don’t Use Oil Soap Cleaners On Laminate Floors
Oil soap cleaners are yet another type of cleaner that you should avoid using on your laminate floors. Oil soap cleaners can leave a film on the floor that is difficult to remove.
This film can attract dirt and dust, and it can also make the flooring look dull. Another thing that makes oil soap cleaners a lousy choice for laminate floors is that they can actually damage the flooring over time.
So, if you want to keep your laminate floors looking their best, be sure to steer clear of oil soap cleaners.
7. Never Use Bleach On Laminate Floors
While bleach is a powerful cleaning solution, it’s also one that you should avoid using on laminate floors. This is because bleach can damage the flooring and cause it to fade.
It can also cause the flooring to become brittle and breakable over time. So, if you’re looking to keep your laminate floors in good condition, be sure to avoid using bleach on them.
8. Don’t Use Ammonia-Based Cleaners On Laminate Floors
Ammonia-based cleaners are another type of cleaner that you should avoid using on laminate floors. These types of cleaners contain chemicals that can damage the flooring.
Ammonia-based cleaners can cause the laminate to become brittle and breakable. They can also cause the flooring to fade and discolor.
So, if you want to keep your laminate floors in good condition, be sure to avoid using these types of cleaners.
9. Don’t Use Too Much Moisture To Clean Your Laminate Flooring
While it’s essential to use a cleaner specifically designed for laminate floors, you also don’t want to use too much moisture.
Using too much moisture can damage the flooring. When cleaning your laminate floors, simply spritz your cleaning solution from a spray bottle and mop or wipe immediately.
If you’re the bucket type of girl or guy, make sure the mop or rag you’re using is completely damp, not dripping wet. You also want to always follow up your cleaning with a dry mop or rag to avoid any water spots.
Excess moisture can cause the laminate to warp and discolor. In extreme cases, it can even cause the laminate to come apart from the subfloor. So, if you want to keep your laminate floors in good condition, be sure to avoid using too much moisture when cleaning them.
10. Detergents With High pH Levels
pH is a scale that measures how acidic or basic a substance is. The lower the pH, the more acidic it is. The higher the pH, the more basic it is.
Detergents with high pH levels can damage laminate floors. They can cause the flooring to warp and discolor. In addition, they can make the flooring become weak over time.
So, if you want to keep your laminate floors in good condition, be sure to avoid using detergents with high pH levels when cleaning them.
11. Things That Leaves A Hazy Glaze On Your Laminate Flooring
While there are many cleaners that are safe to use on laminate floors, there are also some that you should avoid.
Any cleaner that leaves a hazy glaze on your laminate flooring is bad. These types of cleaners can build up, and they can be tough to remove over time.
In addition, these cleaners can make the flooring look dull and lifeless. So, if you want to keep your laminate floors looking their best, be sure to avoid using any cleaner that leaves a hazy glaze on the flooring.
12. Things That Leaves Behind A Shine On Your Laminate Flooring
Last but not least, you should also avoid using anything that leaves behind a shine on your laminate flooring.
Shiny cleaners can leave the laminate flooring feeling very sticky or tacky. In addition, it can make the flooring look wet or slippery. If you want to avoid any of these problems, you should steer clear of any cleaner that makes your laminate floor look shiny.
Instead, opt for a cleaner that leaves behind a natural matte finish. This will help to keep your laminate flooring looking its best.
13. Never Use Scouring Powder On Laminate Floors
Scouring powder is a big no-no when it comes to cleaning laminate floors. This is because scouring powder is abrasive and can actually scratch the surface of your laminate flooring.
In addition, scouring powder can also leave behind a dull finish on your laminate floors. If you want to avoid these problems, then you should steer clear of scouring powder altogether.
There are plenty of other cleaners out there that can get your laminate floors clean without damaging them.
14. Do Not Use Steel Wool On Laminate Floors
Just like scouring powder, you should also avoid using steel wool on laminate floors. This is because steel wool is abrasive and can scratch the surface of your laminate flooring.
In addition, steel wool can also leave behind tiny pieces of metal that can rust and damage your laminate flooring over time. If you want to avoid these problems, then you should steer clear of steel wool altogether.
How To Clean Laminate Floors The Right Way
Now that you know what not to use to clean laminate floors, you may be wondering what the right way is to clean them. The best way to clean laminate floor is to use a good laminate floor cleaner and tools.
The good news is that there are plenty of safe and effective cleaners out there that can get your laminate floors looking their best. Here are a few of my favorite products that are safe to use on laminate floors:
Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner
Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner is a safe and effective cleaner that can be used on laminate floors. This cleaner is designed to quickly and easily remove dirt, dust, and grime.
In addition, Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner leaves behind a streak-free shine. This product is available in a 128-ounce refill bottle. You can check it out over here on Amazon!
Bona Hard-Surface Floor Premium Spray Mop
You can use Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner with the Bona Hard-Surface Floor Premium Spray Mop. This mop is designed to make cleaning laminate floors quick and easy.
The Bona Hard-Surface Floor Premium Spray Mop comes with a 34-ounce refillable cartridge that can be filled with Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner.
In addition, this mop features a microfiber cleaning pad that is designed to remove dirt, dust, and grime. You can check it out over here on Amazon!
Tips For Cleaning Laminate Flooring
In addition to using the right cleaner and tools, there are also a few tips that you should follow when cleaning laminate floors.
These tips will help to make sure that your laminate floors stay looking their best for years to come. Here are a few tips for cleaning laminate floors:
- Always vacuum or sweep your laminate floors before cleaning them.
- This will help to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that could potentially scratch your laminate floors.
- When cleaning your laminate floors, be sure to use a gentle back-and-forth motion.
- Scrubbing or rubbing the cleaner into the floor too harshly can damage the laminate.
- After you have finished cleaning your laminate floors, be sure to dry them with a soft cloth.
- Allowing your laminate floors to air dry can cause water spots.
- Always mop in the direction of the grains to avoid streaks.
- Clean your mops frequently but do not use fabric softener to clean your laminate flooring mops.
- Always use protection under your furniture.
- Clean spills immediately.
- Never use too much cleaner.
Final Thoughts
So as you can see, there are a lot of things you cannot use on laminate floors. However, by following the tips in this article, you can avoid damaging your laminate floors and keep them looking their best for years to come.
Thanks for reading! I hope this article was helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. I would love to hear from you. Cheers!
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to clean laminate floors?
A: The best way to clean laminate floors is by sweeping them with a soft broom or vacuuming with a soft brush attachment. You can also damp mop your laminate floors with a microfiber mop and diluted laminate cleaner or vinegar solution.
Q: How do I remove tough stains from my laminate floors?
A: You can use a laminate floor cleaner or diluted vinegar solution for tough stains. You can also make a paste out of baking soda and water to scrub the stain. Be sure to rinse the area well after cleaning.
Q: Can I use wax or polish on my laminate floors?
A: No, you should not use wax or polish on laminate floors. These products will build up over time and make your floors look dull. Plus, they can be difficult to remove.
Q: What should I do if my laminate floors start to look dull?
A: If your laminate floors start to look dull, you can try cleaning them with a diluted vinegar solution or laminate floor cleaner. You can also use a microfiber mop
Q: How often should I clean my laminate floors?
A: You should sweep or vacuum your laminate floors daily to remove dirt and debris. You can also damp mop your laminate floors every 1-2 months with a microfiber mop and diluted laminate cleaner or vinegar solution.
Q: Can I use carpet cleaner on my laminate floors?
A: No, you should not use carpet cleaner on laminate floors. Carpet cleaners are designed for use on carpet, not laminate. Plus, they can leave behind a soapy residue that will attract dirt and make your floors look dirty.
Q: Can I use bleach on my laminate floors?
A: No, you should not use bleach on laminate floors. Bleach is a harsh chemical that can damage the surface of your laminate floors. Plus, it can discolor your floors and leave behind a dangerous residue.
Q: Can I use vinegar on my laminate floors?
A: Yes, you can use vinegar on laminate floors. Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that will safely clean your laminate floors. Just be sure to dilute the vinegar with water before using it on your floors.
Q: Can I use dish soap on my laminate floors?
A: No, you should not use dish soap on laminate floors. Dish soap or any kind of soap can make your laminate floors look dull and can leave behind a soapy residue. Plus, it’s just not necessary – there are plenty of other cleaning products that will do the job just as well.