January 27, 2025
Wondering how to keep your laminate floors shiny & spotless? Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal. However, maintaining that pristine, shiny look can be a bit of a challenge. At Superior Housekeeping Service, LLC in Bellevue, we’re here to help you keep your laminate floors looking their best with our expert cleaning and maintenance tips.
Understanding Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is a synthetic product designed to mimic the look of hardwood or tile. It’s composed of multiple layers, including a wear layer that protects the floor from scratches and stains. While laminate is relatively low maintenance, it does require proper care to maintain its shine and longevity.
Types of Vinyl Flooring:
- Plank: Vinyl planks are engineered to mimic the realistic looks of wood, but only for a pretty penny. They are scratch & water resistant, so you don’t have to spend much time and effort on the upkeep.
- Tile: Cost-effective, durable, and available in plenty of designs. Vinyl tiles are ranked only after their plank counterparts. Instead of long strips, they are cut into squares in diverse sizes and can be installed and removed without needing professional help.
- Sheet vinyl flooring comes in large & flexible rolls. And there are options throughout for no-wax or enhanced (urethane)
Daily Maintenance Tips
- Sweep or Vacuum Regularly: Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum with a hard floor attachment to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using a vacuum with a beater bar, as it can scratch the surface.
- Damp Mopping: Clean your floors with a damp mop, not a wet one. Excess water can seep into the seams and cause damage. Use a microfiber mop for best results.
- Spot Cleaning: Address spills and stains immediately to prevent them from becoming permanent. Use a cloth dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution.
Deep Cleaning Solutions
For a deeper clean, consider using the following products:
- Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner: This cleaner is specially formulated for laminate floors and helps maintain their shine without leaving a residue.
- Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner: Another excellent option, this cleaner is gentle on laminate floors and provides a streak-free shine.
- Better Life Dirt-Destroying Floor Cleaner: A natural cleaner that effectively removes dirt and grime without harsh chemicals.
- WD-40: Grease, grime, or other heavy-duty stains won’t go away? If that’s the issue, it’s time to bring out the big guns: WD-40! Rub the stains thoroughly with the lubricant and rinse with water once done.
Products That Act Like Wax
To give your laminate floors a nice shiny surface without causing wax buildup, consider using a floor restorer or polish designed for laminate:
- Rejuvenate All Floors Restorer: This product cleans, shines, and protects laminate floors. It’s easy to apply and provides a long-lasting finish1.
- Pro Shot Floor Restorer: Another great option, this product can be applied with a mop or cloth and leaves a beautiful shine.
- Lamanator Plus: This cleaner not only shines your floors but also protects them from future damage.
- Urethane: This long lasting solution will leave your floors a lustrous shine AND protect the floor from unwanted wear & tear. You’ll find a large variety of this in all shapes & sizes at Home Depot. The key here is not to over-apply the product
Application Tips
- Clean the Floor Thoroughly: Before applying any restorer or polish, make sure the floor is clean and dry.
- Use a Damp Applicator Pad: Work in small sections, using a circular motion.
- Let It Dry: Allow the product to dry completely before walking on the floor or replacing furniture. This usually takes about 2 hours, but it’s best to wait 24 hours before moving heavy items.
Preventing Wax Buildup
To avoid wax buildup, follow these tips:
- Strip the Floor Periodically: Every 3-6 months, strip the floor of any polish or restorer to prevent buildup. Use a laminate floor stripper or a gentle chemical stripper designed for laminate.
- Avoid Over-Applying: Use the recommended amount of product and avoid over-applying. Too much product can lead to a sticky residue.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep up with daily and weekly cleaning routines to prevent dirt and grime from accumulating.
By following these tips and using the right products, you can keep your laminate floors looking shiny and new for years to come. At Superior Housekeeping Service, LLC, we’re committed to helping you achieve the best results for your home. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a cleaning service
ROB LEBECK, Owner
SUPERIOR HOUSEKEEPING SERVICE, LLC
“Where Exceptional Service & Affordability Meet!”
206-200-9536
