Caring for laminate flooring at home. Laminate floor care: proper cleaning and washing

Caring for laminate flooring has its own characteristics, and this should not be forgotten. If everything is done correctly, the laminate floor will look like new even several years after repair. On the other hand, a small mistake can lead to swelling of the coating, deformation, and disruption of texture, pattern and color.

Caring for laminate flooring in an apartment or house consists of three main procedures:

daily removal of dust and dirt;
weekly wet cleaning with special detergents;
restoration measures as necessary or every six months.

It is better to use professional products for high-quality and safe care of laminate flooring, but in extreme cases, homemade, homemade ones will do. Read more about the intricacies of cleaning laminate floors below.

Caring for a laminate floor will be easier if you understand what and how it is made. It's not natural wood like parquet, but it's not completely natural either. artificial material, laminate has its own characteristics. Professional builders This material is sometimes called layer cake for its structure:

The bottom layer is stabilizing. This is reinforced cardboard that is impregnated with melamine. Melamine enhances its strength and moisture resistance; sometimes kraft cardboard is additionally covered with a layer of sound-proofing material.
The load-bearing layer is the body of the laminate, in budget options it is represented by dense chipboard, made of premium materials - natural wood. It is in this layer that grooves and locks are cut for a strong connection of the lamellas.
The outer layer is decorative. It is always made from thick paper with impregnation and a laminated coating, but the design can be anything - natural stone, brick, wood, etc. The wear resistance and durability of the laminate depend on the quality of the laminated coating.

Recently, they have also begun to produce laminate with increased moisture resistance. Its body is not wood or chipboard, but a very durable polymer with air chambers.

Caring for this type of laminate is extremely simple, but this type of coating also costs several times more. Therefore, if you chose the classic option when renovating an apartment or house, be sure to read on; the advice of experienced users will definitely be useful to you.

Most consumers with average incomes prefer to install economy-class laminated floors in their apartments - that is, with a chipboard base. Chipboard is quite durable, economical, but at the same time very hygroscopic.

The moisture resistance of this material is not very high; if it gets very wet, the chipboard will swell, increase in volume and become deformed. Therefore, such floors cannot be flooded with water - they will deteriorate, despite the laminated coating.

But this does not mean that wet cleaning is excluded. Laminate floors can and should be washed, following certain rules.

You can use warm or cold water and liquid products designed specifically for the care of laminate floors - for example, Mr. Muscle or Propper.
Do not wash laminate flooring with hard brushes or use abrasive pastes and powders - only liquid gels and mops with a soft attachment or rag.
It is important to wring out the brush or rag well. Excessive moistening of the laminate will not only lead to its swelling - unsightly stains will remain on the surface after drying.
After treatment with a solution with detergent, be sure to wipe the floor clean water, again using a well-wrung out rag or a special mop.
Finally, the floor is either wiped dry or left to dry naturally. It is not recommended to turn on heaters and walk on a washed wet floor.

Do not forget that before wet cleaning, dry cleaning must be done - using a soft broom or vacuum cleaner with a special attachment, remove all dust from the surface of the laminate and baseboards. By the way, you cannot use a washing vacuum cleaner to clean laminate flooring. The only exceptions are the most advanced units, in which the manufacturer provides a similar function.

Alternative detergents for laminate floors

Some housewives, in order to save money or for other reasons, prefer not to use household chemicals to clean the house. Products from the supermarket are in most cases hypoallergenic and do not affect the well-being of small children or pets. But in some cases, precaution will not hurt. What home remedies can you use to care for laminate flooring?

pH neutral baby shampoo. For a five-liter bucket, just add two spoons of baby mild shampoo and foam the water. Then it is necessary to wipe the laminate with a clean damp cloth;
table vinegar. You can use it in two ways. in the first case, add half a glass of vinegar directly to a bucket of warm or hot water and quickly wash the laminate. In the second case, first prepare a solution for treating particularly dirty areas: dissolve a quarter cup of vinegar in a liter of water, pour the liquid into a container with a spray bottle. First, the resulting product is applied to dirty areas and wiped with a wet cloth, then the entire floor is washed completely. Vinegar effectively removes heavy stains, destroys bacteria and restores the shine of dull laminate flooring.

It is not recommended to use soda or citric acid to clean laminate flooring - crystals of these substances can damage the integrity of the top floor covering.

Restoration measures for damaged laminate

Laminate, like any floor covering, suffers during use. The main damages to which it is susceptible:

various stains - juice, coffee, tea, grease, etc.;
chips and scratches - shoes, animal claws, fragments of dropped dishes or other objects can easily damage the top protective film on laminate floors;
swelling - caused by spilled liquid, improper cleaning, high humidity in the room;
drawings with marker, felt-tip pen, paints - glossy floor, especially if it light shades, is very attractive to young artists in the family.

If you discover one of them, do not be upset - for every problem there is a solution. You can remove abrasions, scratches and cracks using a special wax pencil or paste, which can be purchased at a hardware store.

First, the damaged area of the laminate must be thoroughly cleaned of dust, and then treated with paste and pencil - the product is applied until the recess is completely filled. Then the laminate needs to be polished with a dry, soft, lint-free cloth.

A pencil is more suitable for removing scuffs and shallow scratches. if the damage is severe, it is better to use paste or mastic. Please note: you can walk on the treated lamella only after a couple of hours; until this moment it is better to cover it with a napkin or dry cloth.

Pick up desired shade You can mix several different ones. Then the restored laminate will look perfect again.

Chips on laminate flooring appear if a heavy object is dropped on the floor - a stool, pan, book, etc. The chip can only be removed using a special putty. First you need to warm it up, then quickly apply it with a spatula, smooth it out and remove the residue. After drying, the treated area is rubbed, sanded and polished.

Various stains on laminate flooring can be removed using the following means:

felt-tip pens and markers - toothpaste or nail polish remover;
blood - glass cleaner;
drinks and food - alcohol or lemon.

And one last tip: colored mastic based on natural wax, which is used to mask scratches and abrasions on laminate flooring, should be applied once every six months, even if the coating is not damaged. Such products will restore the color and gloss of the floor, protect it from mechanical stress and moisture, and extend its service life.

But you should not be too zealous: Excess mastic will lead to the formation of unsightly stains on the surface and dulling of the laminate.

Laminate is widely used for finishing floors in apartments, houses and offices. The choice of laminate textures is quite large, from imitation floorboards to natural stone, and in terms of characteristics it often surpasses expensive finishing materials - this explains its popularity. In this article we will tell you how to properly care for laminate flooring in order to extend its service life and maintain its original appearance.

The decorative laminated covering consists of individual lamellas, which are connected using end locks. This creates a smooth surface with high decorative properties. The design of the laminate largely determines the rules for its operation and maintenance.

The basis of the laminate is a high-strength fiberboard board with a stabilizing layer on the bottom and a decorative layer on top. The stabilizing layer consists of multi-layer kraft paper or melamine resin; it protects the base from deformation and increases sound insulation properties.

To the top decorative coating a layer of melamine or acrylic resin with textured embossing. The protective layer provides wear resistance and protects against damage. The locking connection, depending on the class of the laminate, can be treated with moisture-resistant impregnation.

Prices for Tarkett laminate

Tarquette laminate

Wear resistance and moisture resistance classes

The laminate class is regulated by Standard EN 13329 and can be determined by digital markings.

Laminate classes 21-23 economy class has been discontinued, but can be found in some apartments. It does not have high wear resistance and is afraid of water. Laminate class 21-23 can only be used in rooms without high load - bedrooms, pantries, dressing rooms.
Laminate class 31 with a wear resistance rating (AC3) is intended for residential premises with low traffic; it is usually used in the decoration of a bedroom, nursery or living room. Not moisture resistant, subject to abrasion in walkable places: doorways, corridors, so it is better to protect it with rugs.
Laminate class 32(AC4) is resistant to abrasion, it can be used in rooms with heavy foot traffic: kitchen, hallway, children's room. It is also not moisture resistant; excessive wetting of the coating when washing should be avoided.
Laminate class 33(AC5-AC6) refers to commercial coatings, it is abrasion and moisture resistant, withstands frequent washing and high humidity air. It can be used in any room.

Note! The frequency of wet cleaning and recommended methods of protecting it depend on the class of the laminate!

Daily care of laminate flooring

Laminate has antistatic properties, it does not attract dust and remains clean for a long time. Thanks to the top protective layer, dirt is not absorbed into the coating and is easy to clean when cleaning. However, even with the most careful attitude it needs regular cleaning.

Laminate flooring care can be divided into three types:

dry cleaning;
wet cleaning;
cleaning of special contaminants.

Improper use of laminate can lead not only to its premature abrasion, but also to destruction of the coating.

Operating laminate flooring - what not to do?

Excessive humidity is the enemy of laminate. When wet, the fiberboard base gets wet, swells, and the floor covering swells. The moisture-resistant coating only protects the laminate from splashes of water; in case of serious leaks, the coating will inevitably suffer. If you have unreliable plumbing or small children, it is better to avoid using laminate flooring in the bathroom and kitchen.
Water is laminate flooring's worst enemy
Sand and other abrasive contaminants cause abrasion and minor scratches. Make it a rule to regularly sweep or vacuum the laminate flooring in the hallway, and place a special shoe mat near the door.
Rearrangement of furniture - main reason deep scratches. Use for furniture legs special felt pads, and place rugs under office chairs on wheels.
Heels and claws - away! Hairpins, spikes and pet paws can leave scratches and chips on the floor. Change your shoes to soft slippers, trim your pet's nails or lay down a laminate flooring with increased wear resistance.
Hard brushes and abrasive cleaners are harmful to laminate flooring, they leave small scratches over time protective covering loses shine and resistance to stains.
Aggressive detergents are a sure way to destroy the protective coating. Leave bleach, alkaline or acidic solutions for washing the tiles. It is better to wash laminate flooring with clean water or use special compounds with neutral pH.
Parquet wax will not improve the appearance of laminate flooring– it is not absorbed into protective layer, but leaves stains and streaks on it. In addition, waxed laminate becomes slippery and dangerous.

Dry cleaning of laminate flooring

For dry cleaning, use a broom, a soft broom or a vacuum cleaner with a special long-haired nozzle. Timely removal of dust and sand is enough to ensure that the laminate looks clean and fresh. Dry cleaning can be done daily, but thanks to the antistatic coating, 2-3 times a week is usually sufficient.

Note! The washing vacuum cleaner can only be used for cleaning class 33 laminate flooring!

With timely dry cleaning, laminate floors remain clean for a long time, so wet cleaning is carried out as needed, usually 1-2 times a week. Class 33 laminate can be washed daily - it is designed for constant cleaning and has sufficient moisture resistance.

Basic rules for wet cleaning of laminate flooring.

Used for cleaning floors clean water, change it as it gets dirty. The optimal water temperature is 35-45 degrees when washing warm water There are fewer divorces.
For severe stains, use special care products; you can also add a spoonful of 9% vinegar or lemon juice to the water - this will refresh the color and add shine to the surface.
Wring out the rag or sponge for cleaning the floor thoroughly to avoid over-wetting the laminate. It is better to use special wringer mops and microfiber cloths.
Wash the laminate in the direction along the boards, with light movements without strong pressure.
After washing, the laminate is thoroughly wiped with a dry cloth and dried.

Note! When washing laminate with chamfers, you need to make sure that no water remains in the recesses - this can lead to swelling of the boards.

Video - Daily care of laminate flooring

Table 1. Popular laminate care products.

Name, photo	Short description
	To care for laminate flooring and protect it from moisture and dirt. Based on soap and linseed oil. Contains aromatic additives. The product is diluted in warm water and wet cleaning is carried out. Provides good removal dirt and further protection of the coating from contamination. A package of the product is enough for 15-25 cleanings, depending on the hardness of the water.
	For everyday care and cleaning heavy soiling. The product is based on nonionic surfactants and contains antibacterial components and aromatic fragrance. Can be used in washing vacuum cleaners. A package of the product is enough for 10 cleanings.
	For the care of laminate and flooring natural cork. Contains detergent surfactants, antibacterial and antistatic components. Fights organic pollution and traces of fat. Consumption of product – packaging for 15 cleanings.
	Cleaning product with argan oil. Does not leave streaks, gives the floor shine, protects from dust and moisture. Easily removes grease and dirt, recommended for washing laminate flooring in the kitchen and hallway. Contains fragrances that fill your home with a pleasant, fresh scent. Economical consumption, packaging for 20-25 cleanings.
	A product with a pronounced antibacterial effect. It not only cleans laminate floors well, but also disinfects them without harming the coating. Recommended for cleaning floors in apartments with small children. Does not leave streaks, has a pleasant smell, and is suitable for regular cleaning. The consumption of one package of product is for 15-20 cleanings.

Along with specialized products, you can also use universal ones, such as Mr. Proper, Mr Muscle, Cif, Sanfor and other similar compounds. The main thing is to make sure before use that they do not contain aggressive acids, alkalis or abrasive inclusions. In terms of effectiveness, such products are practically not inferior to specialized ones, and their price is much lower.

Video - Products for cleaning laminate flooring through the eyes of a specialist

Special contaminants

Stains on laminate flooring usually appear from accidentally spilled liquids or children's pranks. It is best to remove them immediately after they appear, but this does not guarantee complete cleaning of the surface.

Table 2. Products for removing stains from laminate flooring.

Pollution	How to remove	Mode of application
Juices, wine, sweet drinks. Grease and dirt.	Liquid detergents for laminate flooring, liquid soap.	Dilute 50-100 ml of product in a small amount of water, apply to the stain and scrub with a soft sponge. Rinse thoroughly with water and wipe the floor dry.
Permanent marker, nail polish, paint.	Acetone or white spirit.	Apply the solvent to a cotton pad, gently wipe the stain, wash with warm water and soap and wipe dry.
Children's markers, ink, lipstick.	Ethanol.	Apply alcohol to a cotton pad, wipe off the stain, and wipe with a damp sponge.
Blood and other protein contaminants.	Window cleaner.	Apply the product from a spray bottle, wait 1-2 minutes, wipe off with a dry cloth.
Wax, glue, chewing gum.	Plastic scraper, liquid soap.	Wait until it hardens completely; you can cool it with ice. Carefully remove with a plastic scraper. Clean off any remaining stains with a soap solution and then wipe dry.
Stains and streaks from shoes.	Eraser.	Remove the stain with an eraser and wipe with a damp sponge. If an eraser cannot remove stains, you can use a soft abrasive: apply it to a sponge and very carefully rub the coating in the direction of the texture. Afterwards, rinse with water.

Note! It is strictly prohibited to use products containing ammonia on laminate flooring; they destroy the protective layer!

Video - Removing stains from laminate flooring

Damage and its elimination

Despite its high wear resistance, over time, abrasions, small and deep scratches, and chips appear on the laminate. Damage must be repaired in a timely manner; this will protect the laminate from further destruction, water getting into the base and, as a result, from deformation.

For elimination minor scratches use wax crayons or retouch markers. They allow you to paint over scratches and restore the water-repellent properties of the surface. A wide range of color correction products for laminate allows you to accurately select the shade. Ready-made sets are also sold, including 3 or more shades desired color By mixing them, you can achieve complete masking of damage.

Advice! Take laminate cuttings with you to the store - this way you can most accurately select the shade of the corrector. If you are in doubt which of two similar shades to choose, choose the lighter one, it is less noticeable against the background of the rest of the floor

How to remove a scratch from laminate flooring using a wax crayon:

Clean the floor surface with a vacuum cleaner to remove small particles of sand and dust. If necessary, degrease the damaged area with alcohol;
Apply chalk of the desired color to the scratch;
Rub the wax thoroughly with a soft cloth until the scratch is completely rubbed out;
remove any remaining wax with a soft cloth.

Wax has water-repellent properties, so the repaired floor can be wet cleaned. Over time, the wax grout may need to be renewed.

How to remove a scratch using a retouch marker:

Vacuum the area of the scratch or chip, and if necessary, wipe it with a cloth soaked in alcohol;
shake the marker well for 10 seconds;
press its rod inside the marker until the correction compound appears;
fill the crack with corrector in one or several layers;
remove excess product.

After using the marker, the damaged area can be varnished to completely restore the protective layer.

The deepest scratches and large chips are restored using wax or paraffin-based putty; it is sold both separately and in repair kits. Apply the putty while heated; for heating, use a special battery-powered soldering iron; it is included in the repair kit, as well as a grout spatula and polishing cloth.

Table 3. How to repair a scratch on laminate flooring using putty.

Steps, photo	Description of actions
	Clean the restoration site from dust and dirt using a vacuum cleaner. Fatty stains must be removed with alcohol. Choose putty of suitable shades from the set. Turn on the soldering iron included in the repair kit and wait until it warms up.
	Carefully melt a small amount of putty and apply it to the scratch. If the scratch covers an area of several shades, apply putty different color, trying to repeat the drawing. Wait for the putty to harden.
	Use a special spatula to remove excess putty. If necessary, apply a second coat.
	Using a small amount of putty, draw in individual small details of the design. You can also use a retouch marker for this purpose.
	Buff out the repaired scratch using the cloth included in the kit.
	Cover the damaged area with waterproof varnish and dry.

Video - How to repair a deep scratch on laminate flooring using hard wax

If the damage is so great that it cannot be restored, all that remains is to replace the damaged lamella. To do this, you will have to disassemble part of the floor from the nearest wall, and if partial disassembly is impossible, use the method described in the video.

Prices for wax crayons for laminate flooring

laminate pencil

Video - How to replace a damaged board in laminate flooring

If all recommendations for caring for laminate flooring are followed, its service life will be at least 15 years. At the same time, the appearance of the coating will retain its shine and beauty, and your home will be stylish and cozy without extra costs to replace flooring.

A clean and well maintained laminate floor is important integral part interior of premises. During use, stains, scratches, bulges, swellings or gaps between the slats may form on the floor. Improper cleaning of floors also worsens the condition of the laminate flooring. Therefore, cleaning the laminate plays a role important role in its operation.

The widespread use of laminated coatings requires knowledge and skills to care for them. Housewives are often interested in the question: how to properly wash a laminate floor so as not to spoil it and to avoid streaks. Knowing the features of such a coating, you will be able to properly care for it and decide once and for all for yourself how and with what to wash the laminate.

Features of laminated coating

Laminate flooring is a set of laminate planks connected along the length and ends to each other by means of a lock. The junction of the planks forms a joint. The joints are the weak point of the laminate flooring. Damage to the laminate is most common here, since the basis of this material is fiberboard, which is sensitive to moisture. The locks of inexpensive laminate are not treated with a water-repellent compound, so they can deteriorate if exposed to water. In expensive and elite types of coating, the grooves and ridges are additionally treated with a composition containing wax, which improves the resistance of the coating to moisture.

It is very important to know how to properly wash laminate flooring so as not to damage the base layer of the board and maintain the shine of the coating.

Cleaning laminate flooring is an important and responsible moment in the process of caring for the coating. If you want to keep your home clean, then it is simply impossible to do without cleaning. Dry cleaning is carried out regularly as abrasive particles accumulate on the surface: grains of sand, small stones, small parts of toys. They may scratch the coating. To clean laminate flooring, sweep away debris with a soft-bristled broom. To avoid dust, vacuum with a brush, also with soft bristles. As the floor becomes dirty and dusty, after cleaning, it is necessary to do wet cleaning.

The cleaning result must be effective and safe for both the floor and the occupants of the premises in which it is installed. To do this, you need to know how to wash laminate flooring efficiently, without streaks and stains, so that it shines and preserves the service life of the coating as much as possible. It will help protect the surface from all kinds of scratches, swelling and discoloration. the right technology cleaning, good tool and detergents.

How to properly wash laminate flooring

To properly clean a laminate floor, you must follow a certain sequence of actions.

Pre-cleaning

First, you should clear the floor of large debris. To do this, you need to collect all items that could scratch the surface when sweeping. For example, large shards of glass, metal or sharp pieces of plastic. Next, collect sand and dirt from shoes or plasticine scattered by children. This can be done using a wooden spatula or spatula. Use a broom to sweep away all large debris. Carefully scoop it up with a scoop. The broom's pile should be soft enough so as not to scratch the surface of the laminate. Using a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush, you need to carefully collect all small debris, dust, hairs, without missing corners, baseboards and hard-to-reach places.

Before washing, you must first clean the laminate from contamination with special detergents, which will be discussed below.

After this, you can proceed directly to wet cleaning.

Basic rules for washing laminate flooring

The main rule that should be followed when washing laminate floors is that the washing time and the amount of water that gets on the floor should be minimal. Then the moisture will have time to evaporate from the surface of the coating before it penetrates deep into the joints and begins to destroy them.
For washing, use a soft cloth or mop with microfiber and an adjustment lever. It is better to use a microfiber cloth. It collects excess water well from the surface and does not leave large streaks. Wring out the rag or mop head thoroughly after each wash. Old T-shirts, other colored items and rags with lint cannot be taken for washing. When using them, the surface becomes dull and streaks remain.
Wet cleaning is best done when open windows so that the water evaporates quickly and wet spots or puddles do not form.
To increase efficiency, special detergents are added to the water. This will be discussed in more detail below.
It is better to wash heavily soiled floors twice. Cleaning is done in small areas, rinsing the cloth frequently. The first time - with detergent. Then let the room dry. The second time - with plain water.
If the floor with a laminated coating is slightly dirty and dusty, you can wash it once with just hot water (as much as your hands can tolerate), so that it evaporates faster from the floor surface.
If small children or allergy sufferers live in a room with laminate flooring, you can wash the floor with hot water, without using any detergents. The water should be at a temperature of 70-80 degrees. Then it will disinfect the floor and quickly evaporate. You need to work with gloves. It is necessary to change the water frequently and wring out the cloth thoroughly. To avoid getting burned, it is better to use a mop with a wringing attachment.
The room should be washed in such a sequence as to avoid walking on a wet surface.
It is better to move the mop parallel to the laminate planks. This way less water gets into the joints between the slats.
Dried laminate can be polished with a soft, dry cloth. This will remove residual moisture, stains and add shine to the coating.
If the floor is too wet, wipe it with a soft, lint-free cloth or dry mop. This will protect the laminate from swelling and reduce streaks.

After wet cleaning with warm water, the laminate dries faster. But clean tap water leaves streaks on the surface. To avoid this, it is necessary to neutralize it. At home, a weak solution of table vinegar is used for this. Now you know how to wash laminate flooring to avoid streaks.

What is the best way to wash laminate flooring?

This question plagues all housewives. And the answer is very simple: it is best to wash the laminated surface with detergents specially designed for this purpose, strictly following the instructions for use. Overdose or inappropriate use of the product can lead to stains, streaks and damage to the coating.

Detergents

Retail chains offer wide choose professional detergents for laminate:

Mellerud Bio is a natural-based product that removes dirt, dust, oil and grease films well.
Emsal Laminate - based on soap, provides gentle care, protects edges from swelling, adds shine, and prevents dust accumulation.
Pronto - eliminates stains, adds shine and removes dirt well.
HG is a concentrate that creates a thin film that protects against moisture.
Laminol industrial product, softens water, antibacterial, adds shine, does not require rinsing.

Household floor cleaning products (Mr.Proper, Glorix, Meine Liebe, Luxus, Grass, Sarma and others) can also be used to wash laminate surfaces.

In addition to special detergents, you can also use ordinary ones that can be found in any home. However, it is worth remembering that all detergents are used with restrictions.

Detergents - shampoos, liquid soap, dishwashing detergents - must have a neutral PH, be safe for the respiratory system of humans and animals, and do not contain ammonia and chlorine. Their high chemical activity can damage the surface of the laminate.

Some professional detergents do not require rinsing. Read the instructions carefully before use.

Any new detergent should be tested on a small, inconspicuous area. The average concentration of detergent is 50 grams per 10 liters of water. After using the product, you need to wash the floor with clean warm water and wipe dry with a soft cloth or fiber cloth.

To remove stains and add shine, after the washed floor has dried, the surface should be polished with a dry flannel cloth or rag.

A universal recipe without unnecessary chemicals

Special and professional detergents do a good job of cleaning laminate floors from dirt, but they are quite expensive. There are universal recipes for cleaning floors without using chemicals.

The simplest, cheapest and most common way to wash a laminate floor without using professional chemicals is to use clear table vinegar. This method can be easily implemented at home. Add 200 ml to a bucket of hot water (10 l.). 3-9% white vinegar. The floor is washed with this solution in the usual way - by wrung out the cloth well and without stepping on it. wet surface. There is no need to go through plain water a second time. Vinegar has disinfectant properties. In combination with hot water and a well-wrung out cloth, it will ensure rapid evaporation of moisture. Additional polishing with a dry cloth will remove residual moisture, increase shine and remove stains. A solution of vinegar in water removes dirt from laminated surfaces well and makes them shine.

Do not use apple cider vinegar, wine vinegar, or any other vinegar color other than clear. This may damage the laminate surface.

This method has only one drawback - during washing there is bad smell. It does not cause any harm and disappears quickly.

If you don’t have 3-9% vinegar, you can use 70% essence (acetic acid), but you will need 10 times less of it.

What kind of rag to use

As we have mentioned several times in this article, the best way to clean laminate flooring is to use a microfiber cloth. In principle, any soft cloth that absorbs moisture well and can be wrung out well, or a special rag for washing floors, will do.

Important! The rag should not fade and contain hard inclusions (buttons, locks, etc.) that can scratch the surface.

As an alternative to a floor cloth, you can use a mop. This will make cleaning the floor a little easier. It is better to use a universal mop with adjustable handle length. When cleaning large areas, professional mops with covers made of various materials on a movable rectangular or oval shape. The movable mop head facilitates the process of washing and subsequent polishing of the laminate flooring. To clean a small area, it is enough to have a simple household mop.

Washing vacuum cleaner and steam cleaner

Progress does not stand still and manufacturers household appliances For several years now they have been offering to automate the cleaning process using a washing vacuum cleaner.

However, you should use a regular washing vacuum cleaner to wash laminate flooring with great care. Water that gets onto the joints when sprayed with the cleaning nozzle of a vacuum cleaner penetrates the joints and causes them to swell. Only when washing laminate flooring, the locks of which are treated with a special wax composition, you can use new generation washing vacuum cleaners. They spray water less intensely, are equipped with a special nozzle that quickly absorbs liquid and a brush that carefully collects remaining moisture.

Steam cleaners are very effective at removing contaminants from the surface of the laminate, but their use is possible only if the following basic conditions are met:

The coating has no damage or discrepancies between the panels;
The joints of the panels are glued with a special glue or treated with a water-repellent wax-based compound;
The material must have a durable protective coating of class 33 or 34.

How not to wash laminate flooring

When cleaning laminate floors, it is recommended to use special laminate detergents. It is prohibited to use products containing chemically aggressive components. They provide negative impact on a laminated surface.

Bleach and chlorine-containing products, such as White, should not be used for cleaning. Bleach discolors the surface and changes the shade of the decorative coating.
Do not use high concentration acid or caustic alkali. Such products corrode the protective coating and destroy the fiberboard.
It is prohibited to use disinfectants and other products containing ammonia. It affects the laminate flooring, reducing its shine.
It is not recommended to use polishes and products intended for the care of other coatings when cleaning. Spots, cloudiness and streaks may appear on the surface.
The use of abrasive powders, pastes and rough brushes is prohibited. This leads to scratches on the laminate, which deteriorates its appearance and leads to rapid wear.
Do not wash the floor with a wet cloth and a lot of water. Penetrating into cracks, moisture leads to swelling fiberboard and damage to the coating.
Do not overdose detergents in water solution. This is the most common reason stains on the surface and damage to the integrity of the coating.

The use of special detergents makes the washing process easier, but unnecessary chemicals are of no benefit to anyone. Of course, it is impossible to completely abandon them, but it is better to limit the use of detergents for severe stains.
In order to properly wash the surface without leaving streaks, you must first clean it of dirt, grease, and stains using cleaning products. It is better to use them locally, at the site of contamination.
To keep the floor surface in good condition:
— exclude abrasive pastes and powders;
- use clean white rags or special wipes;
- follow the instructions for the cleaning product;
— after removing dirt, rinse the area with clean warm water and dry quickly with a cloth.
When using non-professional cleaners and detergents for laminated surfaces, it is necessary to take into account that an aggressive environment (alkaline or acidic) and the abrasiveness of the material can damage the laminate coating. Therefore, any product must be used wisely, according to the instructions, or by testing it on a small, inconspicuous area of the floor. Prolonged exposure of the product to the surface is not allowed.
The simplest product that can be used to wash laminate flooring is a mild shampoo or liquid soap. Dilute 20 mg. in five liters of hot water and mix well. Dip a cloth or mop head into the soapy water and wring it out well. Start from the far corner of the room and go to the exit without stepping on the wet floor. Use a mop or rag to move along the slats. This way the joints are less disturbed, dirt is washed out better and stains are removed well. After complete drying, wipe the floor again with a cloth washed in clean warm water or in water with the addition of 6-9% white vinegar. (50 ml per 10 liters of water). Vinegar neutralizes the effects of an alkaline environment, adds shine to the laminate, and washes away any remaining dirt. We finish by completely drying the floor surface and ventilating it.
How often can laminate flooring be washed? Wet cleaning should be done no more than once or twice a week, depending on the degree of soiling of the floor. Dry cleaning with a vacuum cleaner or broom can be done daily.
On a smooth, dark-colored surface (wenge, stained oak) whitish stains may remain. To avoid this, use special detergents to wash laminate flooring without streaks. They are added to water in doses according to the instructions. The floor washed in this way is wiped dry and polished with a soft, dry cloth. There will be no divorces left.

How to remove brilliant green and other stains on laminate flooring

Floor cleaning almost always involves removing various stains. In this case, the following tips will help us:

If the laminate is contaminated with aggressive liquids or paints, it is necessary to use special cleaners. For example: Dr Schutz, Elatex, Spray Max.
You don’t always have such a remedy at hand, but you need to act quickly. Household products will do. Solvents will help remove paint from the floor. For oil paints White spirit is suitable, for nitro paints - acetone. The paint must be removed immediately with a cloth soaked in an appropriate solvent. Wipe the solvent dry. Rinse the floor with a solution of vinegar and warm water. Wipe dry.
If it's on the floor polyurethane foam, then it must be removed from the surface with a wooden spatula, and the remains with white spirit. If the foam has dried, you need to carefully scrape it off with a wooden scraper and clean the area with white spirit.
Places contaminated with acrylic paints must be thoroughly washed with warm water.
The gypsum putty can be carefully scraped off and the area washed with warm water.
Traces of tape are removed with white spirit.
Wine stains and cognac stains can be easily removed with industrial or medical alcohol.
Streaks from colored pencils and felt-tip pens are wiped off with alcohol or white spirit.
Grease stains and blood stains are treated with a rag soaked in window cleaning liquid or white spirit.
A rag soaked in white spirit will help to wash away stains on the laminate from rubber shoes, bicycle tires or stroller wheels. They can also be easily erased with a regular school eraser.
You can wash the brilliant green with a cloth soaked in alcohol.
If chewing gum or resin gets on the floor, it must be frozen with an ice bag and removed from the surface. Or scrape it off with a wooden spatula and remove the remaining residue with a cloth and white spirit.

In all cases of surface contamination with active substances, you need to quickly take cleaning measures and be sure to finally rinse the area to be cleaned with warm water or water with white vinegar.

The key to success in the fight against stains is precisely this quick removal staining agent from the surface of the laminate. If the dirty stain has already dried, it will require more physical effort and stronger detergents to remove it.

What is the difference between caring for white and dark laminate flooring?

Dark particles are clearly visible on a white laminate floor. These can be grains of sand, small pebbles that are carried with shoes and scratch the surface, leaving dark marks. Dust and dirt collect in scratches and dents, making them noticeable. Therefore, it is very important to prevent mechanical damage to the surface of the white surface. When dust accumulates in joints and crevices and subsequent washing, dark stains may remain on the white surface. Therefore, the white floor needs to be vacuumed and dusted more often.

On a dark laminate floor, dents and small scratches are less visible, but gray dust and light stains from detergents are very visible. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully remove any remaining detergent from the surface. This is achieved by additional rinsing with clean warm water followed by polishing with a clean soft cloth.

Keep the floor clean and dry clean it daily.
Do wet cleaning no more than once or twice a week as it gets dirty.
Avoid over-moistening or drying out the room.
Place a rubberized mat in the hallway near the door, on which dirt brought from the street will remain.
Walk on laminate floors in soft shoes or socks. This preserves the shine and integrity of the surface longer.
Place felt pads on furniture legs to prevent the floor from scratching when moving furniture.
Do not allow heavy sharp objects to fall on the laminate or aggressive liquids to spill.
Immediately clean up any spilled liquid and wipe the floor dry.
How to clean grease from laminate flooring in the kitchen? First, remove the grease with a dry cloth. Then wipe the area with a cloth soaked in mineral spirits or window cleaner. Finally, wash the area with soap and water and wipe with a dry cloth.
Special laminate care products should be used strictly according to the instructions and the dosage should be observed.
To make the laminate shine, apply finishing rubbing by special means or a solution of water with 3-9% white vinegar with a well-wrung out cloth.
The surface should not be treated with wax-containing compounds and mastics used for wooden coatings. This makes the surface slippery and can cause injury.
To reduce slipping in the kitchen, you need to wash the laminate with a solution of soda (50 grams per 10 liters of warm water), then with a solution of 3-9% vinegar (50 ml per 10 liters of water). Wipe the floor dry and keep it dry.
with a special wax pencil, selected by color. Broken and separated joints must be filled with acrylic sealant in the color of the surface.

Using our tips will help you properly care for laminate flooring during operation. By doing this you will extend its service life and enjoy your interior.

Laminate flooring has many advantages, which is why it is so popular. Laminate is used in private homes, city apartments, and cottages. It looks attractive, is functional, resistant to mechanical stress and is relatively affordable. To extend the life of such a floor, it is worth knowing how to properly care for it.

Why do you need to care for laminate flooring?

The laminate has a structure layer cake, the top layer of which is a film that provides glossy shine and durability of the coating. She needs proper care, otherwise she will quickly wear out. In addition to cleanliness, damage prevention is very important. We regularly bring dirt into the house from the street, and sand is an abrasive that acts like sandpaper. No matter how durable the laminate is, scratches in this case are guaranteed.

Place a rug in the hallway, preferably made of rubberized material, which will perfectly trap dirt, and shake it out every two days.

The second enemy of laminate is water. Expensive waterproof laminate flooring can be installed in the kitchen and bathroom, but not everyone can afford it. To care for the coating, you need to know how to wash it and how not to. If you have budget flooring in your home price category, do not forget that water tends to penetrate into the seams of the coating, causing the top layer to swell. For the same reason, laminate flooring is never fixed using water based, for example, PVA glue.

Most suitable way daily care is dry cleaning with a vacuum cleaner with a special attachment in the form of a long-haired brush. Vacuum carefully, avoiding accumulation of sand and dust. Laminate flooring requires wet cleaning at least once a week.

Dry cleaning with a vacuum cleaner is the best option for laminate floors

What to wash to make the floor shine

There are special household products for cleaning floors, including laminate floors. When choosing them, be extremely careful. Such a product should not contain abrasive particles (powders are definitely excluded) and strong disinfectants or bleaches that can damage the glossy layer, including acids and alkalis.

Special household chemicals are produced for cleaning laminate flooring.

Such products are usually made from organic soap with the addition of fragrances, glycerin, antibacterial disinfectants and alcohol. Prices may vary depending on the manufacturer and the original composition in the range of 100–1000 rubles. But even if you need a more expensive product, don’t worry: it will last you a long time, and the money spent will be worth it.

According to the instructions on the package, the laminate floor cleaner should be diluted in a ratio of 1-2 caps per 10 liters of water. In addition, its use is allowed no more than once every 3-4 washes, that is, approximately once a month.

When choosing detergents for laminate floors, avoid abrasive, alkaline, acid-containing and bleaching products.

We take into account the class of coverage in the apartment

In laminate production there is such a thing as wear resistance classes. They were developed to simplify product selection based on the relationship between the needs and capabilities of the buyer.

There are 2 groups of laminated coatings based on type of use: for commercial (31, 32, 33) and home use (21, 22, 23). Group 1 laminate is much stronger, which allows it to be used in high-traffic areas where there are always a lot of people. To simplify the selection of a suitable coating, markings are also used that indicate the level of strength and durability.

This table will help you understand the laminate class markings

Coating care different types albeit slightly, but still different. For example, moisture resistant laminate It is practically not afraid of prolonged exposure to liquid, and when caring for it you can use a washing vacuum cleaner and a wet rag, unlike the usual non-waterproof one, with which you will have to be much more careful.

Moisture-resistant laminate is practically not afraid of prolonged exposure to liquids

Let's take a closer look at the classification of laminate flooring.

Class 21 - household (home) coating. Service life is about 2 years. There is no reliable coating, so the laminate can quickly lose color and wear out easily. Afraid of water, not resistant to scratches and chips.
Class 22 (household coating) is stronger than the previous one, but nevertheless is not suitable for rooms and corridors where there is frequent foot traffic. It will last longer than 2-3 years if you put carpet on it, which will significantly reduce the load.
Class 23 is suitable for rooms of any purpose, because it is different high level strength. Service life - up to 4 years.
Class 31 (commercial laminate) is the most economical coating option for commercial premises. It's stronger household laminate of any class and at home will last you 10–12 years.
Class 32 (commercial coating) can last from 3 to 5 years in commercial premises with average load. At home, this laminate can not lose its qualities for 15 years, even in the kitchen and hallway.
Class 33 (commercial) can withstand intense loads, so in an apartment it will last you up to 20 years. In addition, this laminate is not afraid of high humidity and hides sounds when walking.

When caring for household flooring, you should not use wet rags or a vacuum cleaner, or try to remove stains with caustic substances. Dry cleaning should be done once every 2 days, wet cleaning - once a week. It is better to cover class 21 and 22 laminate flooring with carpet in areas of high traffic, to minimize the movement of furniture on it. Defects that appear on such a coating should be restored immediately, as the damage quickly worsens.

Wipe grade 21, 22 and 23 laminate floors with a thoroughly wrung-out cloth.

Commercial grade laminate flooring can be vacuumed less often and washed more often, and is also more resistant to the alcohol, acids and alkalis you may need to remove stains. When cleaning, you can use a washing vacuum cleaner or a wet cloth. Defects on such a coating appear much less frequently.

Laminate flooring care instructions

As already mentioned, it is enough to wash laminate floors once a week; on other days, it is enough to sweep away the dust or use a vacuum cleaner. The good thing about laminate is that you don't have to use wax or other shine products, so maintenance is kept to a minimum.

First, you need to check the safety of the floor care product. When you clean your laminate floor for the first time, choose an inconspicuous area and treat it. If the result is good, feel free to expand the cleaning area.
Special products designed for washing laminate flooring contain substances that will do an excellent job of removing almost any kind of dirt. Dilute them in warm water according to the instructions. If household chemicals If you don’t like it, you can use a simple proven recipe for cleaning: 1 tablespoon of vinegar per 5 liters of water. This solution has long been used to successfully wash windows, mirrors and other glossy surfaces. With smooth top layer It will handle laminate just as well.
Start washing the floor from the window, moving towards the door. This way you won't have to walk on the washed surface.
For convenience, use a mop that has a rag wringing mechanism. This way you will get rid of excess moisture. When washing by hand, give preference to a microfiber or flannel cloth. They are quite soft and absorb moisture well.
Do not forget! Cleaning should be damp, not wet. Therefore, wring out the cloth thoroughly.

If wet stains remain on the floor after cleaning, it means that your rag does not absorb moisture well enough. If necessary, wipe the floor dry with a cotton rag.

Use a special mop with a microfiber attachment and spin capability.

These simple measures precautions will significantly reduce the risk of defects appearing on your laminate.

Problem solving

No matter how durable the laminate is, various minor troubles can happen to it during operation. Still, the floor can withstand considerable loads: heavy furniture, restless children, adults constantly busy with household chores.

After removing stains, wipe the surface with a solution of 1 tablespoon of 9% vinegar per 5 liters of water so that the floor regains its former shine.

Restoration of scratches and chips

It’s worth talking about products such as wax crayons, paste and restoration varnish for laminate flooring separately. You can purchase any of them at a specialized store. It is advisable to take care of this immediately when purchasing laminate, so you will save time. In addition, you need to have a sample of the coating with you so as not to make a mistake with the color.

You can buy a complete set for laminate repair, in which you will find convenient spatulas and shovels, as well as all the necessary materials.

A wax chalk is suitable for treating minor scratches and abrasions. It consists of wax, paraffin and dye. The work flow is as follows:

Thoroughly clean the laminate surface from dirt, grease and dust and allow to dry.
Move the chalk over the damaged area until the scratches are completely covered with the compound.
After a few minutes, when the wax has dried, polish the surface with a dry cloth.

If the scratches are deep or chips have formed on the laminate, use a special wax paste of the desired color. The processing process is almost the same as in the previous case:

Clean the laminate.
Apply the heated paste onto the chip with a plastic spatula until it completely covers the damage.
Remove excess product with a wet cloth.
Wait for the paste to dry and polish the area.

Finally, you can coat the restoration area with a clear repair varnish for laminate flooring.

Photo gallery: materials for laminate restoration

The restoration paste must be warmed to a liquid state before use. The sealant is useful not only when laying laminate flooring, but also for preventive maintenance Applying wax paste to a scratch in the laminate is done with a small plastic spatula Wax crayons are the easiest way to quickly restore abrasions and shallow scratches.

How to care for laminate flooring in an apartment? Carefully. The hardest thing is to get rid of the ancient Soviet habit of scraping, pouring water and rubbing. The top film of the laminate is durable, but will not withstand the constant pressure of aggressive chemicals and an iron brush. Therefore - more gentle, more patient.

Daily care

In order for the laminate flooring in your apartment to last for many years, you don’t need to disturb it again. A simple vacuum cleaner with a soft attachment is suitable for daily cleaning. A standard brush is not suitable; it may leave scratches on the surface. A steam generator attachment is also not an option. A powerful jet of steam at constant pressure perfectly damages the acrylic film of the top layer and penetrates perfectly into the technological gaps between the panels during cleaning.

Don’t want to pull out the vacuum cleaner every day and clean the floors throughout your entire apartment? Well, who canceled the good old broom? In order not to chase dust around the entire apartment with a broom, you just need to wrap a barely damp cloth on a broom and carefully collect the dust particles.

Advice. Do not use a vacuum cleaner to care for laminate flooring. It leaves behind a lot of water, which can damage the coating.

And if you can’t wait to wash the laminate

Does the Soviet habit of forcefully scrubbing surfaces when cleaning haunt you? My hands are itching to wash the laminate flooring with a generous portion of water washing powder? Then it’s easier to immediately take everything off and throw it in the trash.

Even moisture-resistant laminate cannot be filled with water. But wiping twice a week with a well-wrung out damp cloth or soft rags is even necessary. It is advisable to take either clean water or a special alcohol-containing product as recommended by the manufacturer.

By the way, the water should be room temperature, perhaps a little warmer. But under no circumstances is it hot!

Advice. It is strictly forbidden to use any soap! This is an alkali, albeit a soft one. To spoil the coating, three wipes with soapy water is enough. The same applies to cleaning powders. Abrasives scratch acrylic film very well. Of course, the acid so beloved by many housewives should also be forgotten for a while.

If scratches do appear...

Sometimes, even if all precautions are taken, abrasions and scratches appear on the top coating of the laminate. Unfortunate craftsmen on the Internet strongly recommend trying to clean such places with an ordinary school eraser. What does this give? Besides, will the scuff marks on the panels become even worse?

Other “masters” suggest using a flannel cloth with olive oil. They say, smear it, rub it thoroughly and you’re done!

Only laminate is not parquet at all, which is saved with oil. Who will clean up a greasy oil stain from the panel later?

Laminate flooring manufacturers have long come up with methods for repairing it. Shallow scratches are masked with wax pencils and then polished.

Large chips and deep scratches are restored with acrylic putty. After drying, apply a special colored paste. Then carefully clean and apply acrylic varnish.

And further. No matter how impressive it looks in the movies, there is no need to walk on such a floor in heels and street shoes. Otherwise, you will have to crawl on your knees, covering up scratches. The same applies to wet feet after a shower or applying creams to the feet. Extra stains from bare feet - do you need it?

Advice. If you don’t have the above mentioned remedies at hand, and a chip on the floor catches your eye, then there is another method. True, you need to have at least a little skill in laying laminate boards. The panel with the scratch is removed under the furniture, and the undamaged panel is placed in its place. They just change places.

A cloth made of microfiber cloth is most optimal for caring for laminate flooring. When purchasing, be sure to touch it with your hands, because microfiber comes in different densities. Don't take the hard one!

It is strictly not recommended to use a sponge to wash dishes. The reverse side is always rough, and scratches are inevitable. At first they will not be visible, then more and more dust will accumulate in them. As a result, an unsightly matte coating will appear.

Steel wool, a hard-bristled brush, a rough household rag - forget it forever when approaching the laminate! From such cleaning tools, the boards shrink in horror, wrinkle and reject the colored coating.

Advice. How to determine if a fabric is suitable for cleaning? It’s very simple: run it along the inner bend of your elbow. Unpleasant? So we postpone it. Does it feel soft? Let's arm ourselves and move forward!

Specific spots

How to care for laminate flooring in an apartment? No matter how you look after it, ordinary people live in the apartment. It happens and something spills, drops, children can accidentally paint, guests come. You can’t ask everyone to stop breathing towards the floor.

First of all, when any liquid is spilled on the flooring, you need to collect this liquid as soon as possible in order to further coverage didn't swell. And only then dance from the nature of the resulting stain:

For universal cleaning, a solution of ordinary white vinegar 9% in water is suitable. Proportion 1 to 5.
Traces of felt-tip pens, varnishes, lipstick, ink, and markers can be easily removed if the stain is carefully wiped with a soft cloth and acetone.
Is gum or candle wax stuck? First, cool the damage with a piece of ice, then carefully remove it. You can use a wooden spatula - it will do less harm. If the coating is damaged, then there are special coloring pencils.
We dropped the food, what's left is grease stain? You will have to look for a detergent with a neutral acid-base balance. It will still be useful on the farm.
Cream, glue, chocolate, blood, juices practically do not leave stains on the laminate if they are removed immediately when they appear. Old stains will require the intervention only of a special detergent and the careful, patient hands of the owner.

Ordinary white spirit copes well with stains on the flooring. Just don’t leave it on the surface for more than five minutes. Gently rub quickly, remove the residue with a damp cloth, and immediately wipe dry with a soft cloth.

Advice. Before removing any stain, you should test how the laminate floor reacts to the cleaner. It is advisable to do this in an inconspicuous place. Ideally - under furniture. At least no one will see the damage there.

Subtleties of care

During wet cleaning, you need to wipe the boards strictly lengthwise to the panels. This way there will be fewer streaks and scratches if suddenly there is a grain of sand on the cloth.
By the way, about sand. If you place a high-pile rug at the entrance to your apartment, dirt and sand will remain on it. This means the laminate will scratch less.
Do not polish or polish floors with wax. The top coat itself is quite smooth, even if matte. And after rubbing it will become simply dangerous.
It is not advisable to use any detergents frequently. Once a month is quite enough. On other days, clean water will be enough.
For an apartment it is better to choose polished boards. Matte ones look more impressive, but caring for them is much more difficult.
Sometimes, even if the floor is washed with plain water, stains remain on the panel pattern. This means it was necessary to change the water to clean water more often, and after washing it is recommended to wipe the boards dry. Naturally with a soft, clean cloth.
Cannot be used when caring for panels ammonia. Instead of the intended shine, ammonia will dissolve the protective acrylic coating.
When purchasing a new laminate floor care product, you should always try it on an inconspicuous area. If everything is fine, then you can wash the coating everywhere. You never know what the manufacturers write there! What if this particular type of laminate is very capricious?
Felt or cork glued to furniture legs will allow the laminate to decorate your home for decades without abrasion.
To be absolutely sure that the laminate will remain alive after cleaning, it is better to play it safe and purchase a special product. It costs little more than regular cleaning fluid. But compared to a new covering of floors damaged by chemicals, this waste is mere pennies.

Laminate is enough durable coating if you care for it properly. Of course, there is no need to be afraid to breathe on the floors, but diligent cleaning with a wire brush is also unnecessary.