- Dirt and sand are the main culprits in the deterioration of laminate flooring. Place area rugs or floor mats in front of doors to keep tracked-in debris to a minimum; remove shoes indoors whenever possible. If you have pets, clean their paws when they come inside. Avoid dropping hard or sharp objects directly on the floor, and always use casters or felt pads beneath heavy furniture. Likewise, when moving furniture always lift the piece instead of sliding it .
- Sweep the floor or vacuum with a soft brush attachment once or twice a week, depending on the amount of traffic the floor receives. Dust between cleanings with a dust mop or cloth if pet hair is a problem. Clean soiled areas with a slightly damp cloth, sponge or mop; refrain from using detergents on your laminate floor. Use a mop or sponge dampened with a 1-to-4 vinegar-water mixture once monthly to restore shine. If you decide to use a commercial cleaner, make sure it is specifically designed for laminate flooring; a citrus-based product is preferable.
- Wipe up spills immediately; liquid that is allowed to stand on a laminate floor may seep into the seams or under the perimeter and cause warping and other damage. Heavily soiled or stained areas should be scrubbed clean with a damp sponge. Avoid using scouring powders, scouring pads, steel wool or any other abrasive on your laminate, as they can permanently damage the finish. Do not wax or strip a laminate floor. Dents and scratches may be filled with a laminate product made specifically for this purpose.
- Be aware that using a product on your laminate floor that is not specifically recommended by the manufacturer may cause you to void the terms of the warranty. Likewise, allowing liquid to stand for any length of time is against most manufacturers' warranty guidelines.
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