Caring for timber laminate flooring involves regular cleaning and preventative measures to maintain its appearance and longevity. The key is to keep it clean and dry.
Daily & Weekly Maintenance
Consistent daily and weekly routines help prevent dirt and grit from scratching the surface, which is crucial for maintaining the floor's look.
- Daily/Weekly Sweeping: Use a soft broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hard floor attachment to remove dust, dirt, and debris regularly. This stops small particles from acting like sandpaper underfoot.
Monthly Washing
While regular sweeping handles most dirt, a monthly wash-down can tackle more stubborn grime. However, laminate floors are sensitive to water, so technique is critical.
- Wash with Plain Hot Water: A monthly wash-down is usually sufficient if you're also following a weekly sweeping routine.
- Use a Damp Mop: As laminate floors are sensitive to water, it's important though to wring your mop out until it is just damp, not wet, when you apply it to the floor. Excess water can seep into the seams and cause damage like swelling or warping.
Protecting Your Laminate Floor
Preventative steps are vital to avoid damage and reduce the need for intensive cleaning.
- Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Liquids are the biggest enemy of laminate. Clean up spills as soon as they happen using a clean cloth.
- Use Furniture Pads: Place felt or rubber pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents when furniture is moved.
- Use Mats: Place mats at entryways to trap dirt and moisture before it reaches the laminate. Avoid rubber-backed mats directly on the floor, as they can sometimes cause discoloration – check the mat manufacturer's advice.
What to Avoid
Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.
- Excessive Water: Never flood the floor or use a soaking wet mop. Steam cleaners are generally not recommended for laminate flooring due to the risk of moisture damage.
- Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive cleaning powders that can scratch the surface layer.
- Wax or Polish: Laminate floors have a protective wear layer and do not require waxing or polishing. These products can cause build-up and dull the finish.
- Harsh Chemicals: Stick to cleaners specifically designed for laminate flooring or plain hot water as mentioned in the reference. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners or strong solvents.
Quick Care Summary
Here is a simple overview of a typical care schedule:
| Frequency | Task | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Daily | Sweep/Vacuum | Remove loose dirt and debris. |
| As Needed | Wipe Up Spills | Immediately with a clean cloth. |
| Monthly | Damp Mop Wash | Use plain hot water, wring mop well. |
| Ongoing | Use Protective Measures | Furniture pads, entry mats. |
By following these steps, particularly the critical advice about using a damp mop wrung out well when washing with plain hot water, you can keep your timber laminate flooring looking great for years.
