Is a Vapor Steam Cleaner Safe for a Laminate Floor?

Do not use a vapor steam cleaner on your laminate floor.

Using a steam cleaner around the home is safe for many surfaces, providing the home with a deep treatment of heat, cleaning solution and steam that gives a thorough cleaning without requiring much work on your behalf. Laminate, however, is not a surface that a steam cleaner should be used on.

Laminate Defined

Laminate is a wooden flooring option finished with a screen-printed layer that resembles the look of natural hardwood. The laminate is then coated with a polyurethane layer that provides protection and creates a solid barrier that spills and stains cannot easily penetrate. Since laminate flooring costs much less than hardwood but gives the same look, this is a favorite floor option in many homes.

Avoiding a Steam Cleaner

Steam cleaning uses moisture, heat and steam, all of which are not safe for laminate. When any one of these elements come into contact with your laminate floor in excessive amounts, it can cause the laminate to swell, buckle and become damaged, so entirely avoid the use of a steam cleaner on your laminate floor.

Warranty Considerations

When you use an improper product such as a steam cleaner on your laminate and the flooring becomes damaged, your warranty will often be voided. When an error on your part by use of improper cleaning products causes damage to the laminate, the warranty issuer specifically states that damage will not be covered.

Surfaces Safe for Use With a Steam Cleaner

On the other hand, there are many surfaces around the home that a steam cleaner can safely be used on. Use your vapor steam cleaner to clean carpeting, tiled floors, drapes and upholstery while using a cleaning solution labeled safe for use on the surface you intend to clean.

References

• North American Laminate Flooring Association: Frequently Asked Questions