DIY 
LAMINATE FLOORING TIPS

"Do's" and "Don'ts" of Caring for Your Laminate Flooring:

Do:

• Use a microfiber mop to clean laminate flooring. Other mops, such as string or sponge mops, can severely damage laminate. It is best to use a microfiber mop dry first, to initially get rid of hair, dust, and debris. After scraping this off of the microfiber pad, the same pad can be used damp to clean the floor.
  
• Dust-dry the floor. This can be done as frequently as you wish, and is a great way to make sure all hair and dust is collected.
  
• To clean up spills, use a blotting technique instead of scrubbing. Make sure to blot with a sponge, dry cloth, or paper towel. All of these products are absorbent and will not harm the laminate.
  
• Sweep your laminate floors in the same direction as the panels have been laid in. Following this same pattern allows you to collect the dirt and debris, rather than trap it in the grooves of the laminate panels.

 Do not:

• Use too much water. A large amount of water can severely damage laminate by reaching the lower sub-floor layers of laminate and causing it to warp.
  

• Use waxing or polishing products on laminate. While it can seem like a good idea to add to laminate that appears to be hardwood, these can badly damage the laminate.
  

• Scrub the floors with steel wool or scouring pads. These are known for removing tough set-in stains, but beware – this would scratch the surface of the laminate, and would not be able to be removed.
  
• Use products that have any chemicals in them that claim to promote shine, or use bleach or other similar, abrasive cleaning solutions. These are all very harmful, and can break down the laminate.