Tips for keeping your laminate flooring looking new

Laminate floors are a great choice for a modern home. Laminate flooring is durable, easy to maintain, and comes in a variety of styles. But as with any investment, you want to keep it looking fresh and new for as long as possible. If you’re wondering how to keep that like-new shine, this guide will walk you through a few tried-and-true tips that I swear by. From cleaning strategies to quick fixes for scratches, these simple actions will make a huge difference in maintaining that brand-new look.

Make sweeping a habit

One of the simplest yet most effective tips for keeping your laminate flooring looking great is to sweep regularly. Dust and dirt particles are not just unsightly; they can act like sandpaper, scratching the surface of your floor over time. That dust? It doesn’t seem like much, but it can be a silent destroyer of beautiful floors.

To keep your floors spotless, make it a habit to sweep or vacuum (on the hard floor setting) daily. For those tight spaces, try a soft microfiber dust mop. It picks up debris without scratching, and trust me; this one little trick will extend the life of your laminate flooring by years.

Avoid excess water

Laminate floors and water are not the best of friends. While laminate is water-resistant, it’s not waterproof. Excess moisture can cause warping and even make the edges swell. When cleaning, a slightly damp mop works wonders without introducing too much water. And remember, avoid spilling water directly on the floor.

If spills happen—and let’s be real, they will—try to clean them up as quickly as possible. A soft, absorbent cloth or paper towel can do the trick. Just dab at the spill gently; there’s no need to rub.

Clean with the right products

You don’t need anything fancy to keep your laminate floors looking new, but choosing the right cleaner is essential. Harsh chemicals, including bleach and abrasive powders, can damage the finish, leaving your floor looking dull. So, what should you use?

A simple, homemade solution of vinegar and water (about a 1:4 ratio) is a great option for laminate. Spray a fine mist on the floor, then wipe it with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. I find that this not only cleans but also gives a nice shine without any buildup. Plus, it’s all-natural!

There are also laminate-specific cleaners available. If you go this route, make sure it’s labeled as safe for laminate floors. As a rule, always spray the cleaner on a cloth, not directly onto the floor. This keeps moisture levels low, helping prevent damage.

Add protective pads to furniture

Furniture can be one of the biggest threats to your laminate flooring. As it slides or gets moved, it can easily leave behind scratches. But don’t worry—there’s an easy fix for this. Invest in protective pads for your furniture. They’re inexpensive and simple to apply.

Stick these pads under the legs of your chairs, tables, and any other furniture that might slide. 

Not only do they prevent scratches, but they also make it easier to move furniture around without heavy lifting. And for larger furniture, like couches or beds, consider furniture sliders; they’ll make moving things around a breeze.

Use mats at entryways

A lot of dirt, moisture, and debris enters your home from, well, outside. Entryway mats can catch most of this before it even touches your laminate floors. Place mats both outside and inside your main doors for a double layer of protection.

A few extra rugs can add another layer of defense for high-traffic areas. Just make sure any rug or mat you use doesn’t have a rubber backing, as this can trap moisture and lead to warping. Opt for rugs that are specifically designed for use on laminate to avoid any issues.

Keep pets’ nails trimmed

Pets are adorable, but their claws can scratch up a laminate flooring in no time. Keeping your pet’s nails trimmed is one of the easiest ways to protect your floor. There are many pet grooming tools available, so it doesn’t have to be a big hassle. Your laminate floors—and your pet—will thank you!

If trimming isn’t an option, consider using pet socks or claw caps. They’re soft, comfortable for pets, and add a layer of protection to your floors.

Use curtains to protect from sunlight

Believe it or not, sunlight can fade laminate floors over time. UV rays can cause discoloration, making certain areas look different than others. If you have large windows, consider adding curtains or blinds to reduce direct sunlight exposure.

If you love the natural light, you can also rotate rugs or furniture to spread out any potential fading. It’s a small step that can go a long way in maintaining a consistent look for your flooring.

Keep high heels and heavy shoes in check

High heels and heavy shoes can damage laminate flooring, especially if they have pointed or rough soles. Shoes with metal tips or stiletto heels, for instance, can make dents and scratches. The best option is to create a shoe-free zone near entryways. A stylish shoe rack or bench can make this easy to enforce, and your floors will be much better off because of it.

Polish occasionally but carefully

Laminate floors don’t need polishing as frequently as hardwood, but an occasional polish can help bring back some of that original shine. Look for a polish specifically formulated for laminate. This isn’t something to do every month; once or twice a year should be more than enough.

Apply the polish gently and evenly. Too much polish can leave a sticky residue, which not only attracts dirt but can make the floor look dull over time. A light application will keep it looking vibrant without overdoing it.

Avoid dragging anything across the floor

This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning: never drag heavy objects across your laminate flooring. Whether it’s furniture, boxes, or even a vacuum cleaner, dragging can leave deep scratches that are hard to fix.

If you need to move something large, lift it whenever possible. If lifting isn’t an option, use a furniture dolly or slider. They’ll reduce friction, making it easier to glide objects across the floor without damage.

Embrace a regular cleaning routine

A consistent cleaning routine is truly the secret to maintaining laminate floors. It’s easy to forget about daily upkeep, but it makes all the difference. Set aside time each week to give your floors a little extra love. A quick vacuuming session, a damp mop, and a quick check for scratches or spots—it’s simple, but it works wonders.

Your experts on laminate floors

When it comes to keeping laminate flooring looking new, consistency is key. By incorporating these habits into your routine, you’ll find that it’s easier to maintain that like-new shine, even as the years go by.

With a little care and a few mindful habits, your laminate flooring can look as good as the day it was installed. Try these tips, and you’ll be amazed at the difference. After all, your floor is one of the most used surfaces in your home, so keeping it looking fresh is worth every effort.

Laminate Flooring Liquidators is your go-to store for your laminate needs. Reach out to us today!