Method to Remove Residue From Laminate Floors

Residue buildup can dull a laminate floor's shine.

Laminate is layered flooring acknowledged for its hygienic surface, natural wood appearance and resistance to minor damage. It is generally used for living rooms, dining areas, dens and bedrooms. Like other flooring types, laminate can accumulate grimy residue from frequent foot traffic and incidental spills. Residue, whether from food or dirt, makes laminate floors appear soiled and neglected. Laminate floors require adequate maintenance to protect their surface and retain their aesthetic appeal. Remove residue from laminate floors with basic products.

Things You'll Need

• Broom
• Warm water
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• Bowl
• Spray bottle
• Clean mop pail
• Microfiber mop pad
• Clean microfiber towel

Instructions

1. Sweep up visible dust and dirt particles from the affected area of the floor. Remove as much loose grime as possible.

2. Mix 1 quart of warm water with 1/4 cup of white vinegar in a bowl. Pour the vinegar solution into a spray bottle.

3. Fill a clean mop pail halfway with plain warm water.

4. Spray the vinegar solution onto the residue. Gently scrub the floor with a microfiber mop pad until the residue is completely removed. Regularly rinse the microfiber pad in the pail of water to prevent reapplying residue to the laminate. Thoroughly wring out the microfiber pad after rinsing it.

5. Pour out the dirty mop pail water and refill the pail with fresh warm water. Mop the laminate with the fresh water to rinse away any remaining residue and the vinegar solution. Remember to always wring out the mop.

6. Wipe the floor with a clean microfiber towel until the laminate surface is completely dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Substitute a commercial laminate floor cleaner for the vinegar solution. Apply the cleaner according to the label's directions.

• Scouring powders, steel wool pads and other abrasive cleaning products can scratch laminate floors.

• Excessive moisture from water or cleaning solutions can damage laminate floors.

• Soap-based cleaning products can discolor or dull laminate floors.

References

• Home Flooring Guide: Advantages of Laminate Flooring
• World Floor Covering Association: Laminate Care
• Professor's House: Cleaning Laminate Floors