How to Remove Stains From Laminate Flooring

One of the upsides of laminate flooring is that it rarely stains, provided that any spills or messes are cleaned up in a timely fashion. However, when laminate flooring does stain, it can be a chore to get clean. The shiny coating on laminate flooring means that stains can soak in under the surface. It's best to start with gentler methods when working with laminate flooring to avoid marring the surface further with buildup.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dry towel
• Baking soda
• Cup
• Ice cubes
• Plastic scraper
• Nail polish remover
• Cotton balls
• Commercial floor cleaner

1. Try rubbing the stain with a dry towel. Put a bit of pressure on the towel while rubbing. This action should lift any superficial stains, such as scuff marks.

2. Make a thick paste of baking soda and water in a cup. Rub the paste gently into the stain, then allow it to soak in for as long as 2 to 3 hours. Wipe the paste away with a dry towel, being careful not to press too hard as the paste can scratch the surface of the flooring.

3. Rub ice cubes across the top of waxy surface stains, such as candle drippings and crayon, then gently pry up the mess with a plastic scraper.

4. Apply a small amount of nail polish remover to the area with a cotton ball. This should take care of any makeup, wine or other dark stains. Wipe the area clean with a damp towel after treating it. The nail polish remover can dull shiny floors, so it's best to use this treatment sparingly.

5. Treat the floor with a commercial cleaner that is approved for laminate flooring, if nothing else works. Go with the cleaner that is specifically recommended for the floor by the manufacturer, and be sure to follow all instructions. This may be the only way to salvage flooring with dark, set-in stains.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use soapy or waxy treatments on laminate flooring as they leave buildup behind.