The type of materials used for your flooring choice can vary greatly. One of the reasons laminate flooring has become so popular is because it is rather easy to maintain and clean. Keeping that in mind, there are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to cleaning laminate floors, which will also allow them to stay looking newer for longer.
Like most floorings options, the more you clean them, the longer they will last in the long run. In terms of regular upkeep, laminate flooring requires minimal cleaning products, which is not only good for your household but also a benefit to the environment.
Understanding your laminate floor
Laminate flooring is tested by abrasion resistance and is measured by Abrasion Coefficient, which determines different levels of ratings. The higher the rating, the more resistant your laminate flooring will be to scratches and dents.
The ratings are as follows:
AC1 – Light Residential Use (Best used for low-traffic areas)
AC2 – Moderate Residential Use (Best used for low to medium-traffic areas)
AC3 – Heavy Residential Use (Best used for medium to high traffic areas)
AC4 – Light Commercial Use (Best used for commercial properties with low traffic areas)
AC5 – Moderate Commercial Use (Best used for commercial properties with medium traffic areas)
AC6 – Heavy Commercial Use (Best used for properties that have high traffic, however, AC6 Laminate flooring is uncommon)
Clean laminate floors regularly
Keep on top of your floors by regular vacuuming. For some people, this may be daily if you’ve got a large family and heavy foot traffic and for others, it may be every second or third day.
It’s important that you don’t use brooms that have bristles as these can scratch the surface and ruin the finish that is on your laminate floors.
How your AC Rating affects how you clean laminate flooring
Depending on what rating your flooring is, will determine how you best maintain your floor. For most residential properties, you are most likely to have an AC1 or AC2 rating. Both of these flooring types are best maintained with regular vacuuming and light moping. Floorings
that are rated AC3 and above can withstand non-abrasive cleaning tools. It is important to research the best option for your floors thoroughly.
Cleaning Products
If you do not want to use store-bought cleaning products, a simple cleaning solution of water and baking soda or a mild soap is sufficient for laminate floors.
Floors that have been neglected for a while may need a little more work to bring them up to standard. Before vacuuming, start by removing any dirt or debris that is likely going to scratch the surface during the cleaning process.
If you have stubborn stains, you may need to purchase a specialised laminate flooring cleanser as too much elbow grease can damage your floor. No one wants to see swirl marks from where you’ve been scrubbing!
Best way to mop laminate floors
When you’re mopping your floors, it doesn’t need to be a super wet mop, less is best. Moisture can damage your floors if left sitting for too long. Your floors can swell, especially around the joins, and once this happens, it is difficult to repair.
It’s common to mop your floors and be left with unfavourable streak marks, especially if you’ve used too much cleaner in your water-to-product ratio. An alternative to a floor cleaner is hot water and vinegar. It will clean your floor and not leave any marks.
Preventative Care
Cleaning aside, there are other ways that you can care for your flooring, which can minimise grime as well as scratches. The use of doormats, especially at entryways will prevent excess dirt from entering your home, which may also prevent damage to your floors.
Sunlight
If you notice the morning or afternoon sun beaming through one particular window and directly hitting your flooring, you should consider closing your window coverings during that time. Over time, sunlight can cause bleaching of your flooring, and your flooring will become dull and lifeless.
Furniture Pads
Furniture pads are a cost-effective way to protect your flooring from large scratches or dents when furniture is moved. They are perfect for the underneath of chair legs and larger furniture items such as lounges and tables.
As you can see, laminate flooring is quite easy to maintain compared to other floor types, such as bamboo. Keep up regular cleaning on your floors, and they will look newer for longer!
With all our ‘How to Blogs’, we recommend that you use this as a guide only and do further research by visiting the HIA website. The HIA Website provides expert knowledge in all areas of building and home renovation.
How Can Houspect Help?
If you are looking at new property in New South Wales, you may benefit from a pre-purchase building inspection.
Houspect also offers renovation inspections and new home inspections.