How to Keep Laminate Floors Clean and Shiny

Do your laminate floors needs some maintenance? Check out these tips to get a clean and shiny look to your floors!

Wipe up wet spills immediately. Water + Laminate = Disaster.
Place mats under your furry friend’s water bowl and consider a mat under your baby’s high chair.
Don’t use anything that promotes a shine. These cause waxy buildup that is very difficult to remove.
Avoid pine scented cleaners. These cleaners leave a dull, soapy residue.
Steer clear of Murphy’s Oil. It leaves major streaks on laminate.
Vinegar is widely debated. It’s acidic which isn’t the best for your laminate surface, but many people swear by a little bit of vinegar and a lot of hot water to cut pet grime. Used in abundance, though, it can remove the protective seal on your floors.
Traditional wet mopping is a no-no!
No stiletto heels on laminate. Pop those foxy shoes on at your front door on your way out!
Trim pet nails. The mad dash to bark at the mailman can scrape off the protective layer on your laminate, allowing water to intrude at cleaning time.
For the same reason, place furniture pads under all table and chair legs.

Sweep often. A soft-bristle broom can get up most of the pet hair, dust and dirt that collects on your floor.
To grab the hard-to-reach dust in the corners of your rooms, use a soft-brush attachment on your vacuum.
Use a damp mop: This means less water has the chance to seep in between your laminate seams.
Use very hot water and a few drops of dish soap. Some products that work well are Bruce and Bona.

Use a steam mop occasionally for a very deep clean. Not daily, though, because the repeated use of steam can cause the laminate to buckle.
You can use a window cleaner occasionally for spills but don’t over use ammonia, which can strip protective sealant.

This article was originally written by Laurie March and published on DIY Network.