Cleaning and Care of Laminate Flooring
Oct 18, 2025
Cleaning and Care of Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is a popular choice, but its sensitivity to water and susceptibility to scratches require careful cleaning and maintenance.
What is Laminate?
Lamination involves bonding multiple layers together. Laminate flooring typically consists of compressed fiberboards made from wood remnants, topped with a decorative layer. This decor can mimic wood or tile. The decorative paper is protected by a synthetic resin layer. Caution is advised during cleaning, as excessive moisture can cause the flooring to swell.
Vacuuming or Sweeping?
Laminate’s electrostatic charge naturally attracts dust. Therefore, sweeping is less ideal as it tends to stir up dust, which then resettles elsewhere. For removing coarser dirt from smaller areas, a soft broom should be used. When vacuuming, it is crucial to use the brush attachment instead of the standard nozzle. The normal nozzle can cause scratches, especially if small stones or dirt particles rub between the nozzle and the floor.
What is Meant by “Damp Wiping”?
“Damp wiping” signifies that the cleaning cloth is only minimally moist. To achieve this, thoroughly wring out a wet cloth, then wrap it in a dry cloth and wring both together again. Alternatively, a spray bottle can be used to apply a minimal amount of water directly. The floor should appear dry within three minutes at the latest to ensure proper moisture levels.
Suitable Cleaning Agents for Laminate
For light soiling, lukewarm water without additional cleaning agents is sufficient. If the floor is heavily soiled or has stains, specific laminate cleaners are available. These cleaners not only provide shine but are also designed to seal the joints. Use them sparingly, as overuse can lead to streaks and smears. Streaks can also occur if special parquet cleaners that form a protective film are used on laminate, or if cleaning is done with water that is too hot.
Targeted Laminate Stain Treatment
The European Producers of Laminate (EPLF) provides guidance on how to manage specific stains:
| Stain Type | Treatment Method |
|---|---|
| Rubber abrasion, heel marks, street dirt, crayons, oil pastels | Brush off dry, e.g., with a white nylon sponge (pad). |
| Fruit, berries, milk, beer, wine, tea, lemonade | Immediately blot with an absorbent cloth. For dried stains, wipe with laminate or neutral cleaner, then dry rub. |
| Urine, blood | Immediately wipe with a damp cloth. For dried stains, brush off dry. For stubbornly adhering stains, wipe with laminate or neutral cleaner, then dry rub. |
| Felt-tip pens, ink, Indian ink, lipstick, carbon paper, nail polish, shoe polish, varnish, oil, tar, grease | Carefully wipe with a solvent-soaked cloth (little acetone, vinegar essence, universal thinner), only in the stained area. Observe safety regulations! |
| Chocolate, greasy films, cooking oil | Laminate or neutral cleaner. |
Source: EPLF, European Producers of Laminate
