Cleaning laminate, vinyl, and linoleum flooring requires different approaches and care to ensure their longevity and appearance. Here are some general guidelines we use for cleaning each type of flooring:
Laminate Flooring:
Laminate flooring is a synthetic material that mimics the appearance of hardwood. It’s important to avoid excessive moisture on laminate floors, as water can seep into the seams and cause damage. Here’s how to clean laminate flooring:
Sweep or Vacuum: We remove loose dirt and debris using a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.
Damp Mopping or Orbital Machine: We use a damp microfiber mop or cloth attachment to clean the surface. We use a mixture of water and a small amount of mild, pH-neutral laminate floor cleaner.
Spot Cleaning: We wipe up spills to prevent moisture from seeping into the seams. We use a wet-vac and dry the area thoroughly.
We avoid Harsh Cleaners: We don’t use abrasive cleaners, steam mops, or excessive water, as they can damage the laminate surface.
Vinyl Flooring:
Vinyl flooring is resilient and durable, making it suitable for various environments. Proper cleaning can maintain its appearance and longevity:
Sweep or Vacuum: We remove loose dirt and dust using a broom, dust mop, or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.
Damp Mopping or Counter Rotating Machine (CRB): We clean with a mixture of water and a mild, pH-neutral vinyl floor cleaner and soft brush attachment (CRB) for deep cleaning.
Spot Cleaning: We clean up spills using a damp cloth. and avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the vinyl surface.
We avoid Wax and Buffing: Most modern vinyl flooring doesn’t require waxing. We check the manufacturer’s recommendations before applying any wax or polish.
Linoleum Flooring:
Linoleum is a natural flooring material made from linseed oil, wood flour, cork dust, and other natural ingredients. It requires gentle cleaning to maintain its appearance and integrity:
Sweep or Vacuum: We remove dirt and debris using a soft-bristle broom, dust mop, or vacuum cleaner.
Damp Mopping or Counter Rotating Machine (CRB): We clean with a mixture of water and a mild linoleum floor cleaner and soft brush attachment (CRB) for deep cleaning.
We avoid Harsh Chemicals: We use pH-neutral cleaners that are suitable for linoleum. We avoid abrasive cleaners, ammonia-based products, and harsh chemicals.
Periodic Polishing: Linoleum floors can benefit from occasional polishing using linoleum floor polish. We follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
General Tips:
We always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and care instructions for your specific type of flooring. We avoid using excessive water, as it can damage the flooring and its adhesive. We use soft cloths, mops, and brushes to prevent scratches on the surface. We dry the floors thoroughly after cleaning to prevent slips and moisture-related issues.
