Laminate Floor Care & Maintenance — Tips for Lasting Beauty

Caring for Laminate Floors

Laminate floors are tough — but not all laminate is built the same. Some laminate flooring includes a waterproof finish, while other products are only moisture-resistant rather than fully waterproof. Because the difference matters, always follow the specific care guidelines from your laminate's manufacturer rather than assuming all laminate behaves the same way.

Daily care is simple: sweep, dry mop, or vacuum using a hard-surface flooring attachment. Most everyday messes wipe away easily with a damp cloth. Spills should be cleaned up quickly — laminate's wood-based core can warp if moisture sits on the surface too long.
For a deeper clean, use a manufacturer-approved hard floor cleaner as needed. Avoid steam mops, wax-based products, and excessive water, all of which can damage the laminate's surface layer over time.
Place doormats strategically at room entrances to capture dirt and debris before it gets tracked onto your laminate — this is especially helpful through Michigan's salt-and-sand winter months. Use floor protectors under heavy furniture and appliances to prevent indentations, and avoid dragging anything across the floor that could scratch or gouge the surface.
For stubborn messes like candle wax, chewing gum, or oil-based stains such as lipstick and olive oil, consult your manufacturer's specific cleaning guidelines rather than improvising — the wrong cleaning method can damage the laminate's protective wear layer.