How to Clean Very Dirty Laminate Floors: A Step-by-Step Guide

Laminate flooring is a firm favourite in homes across the UK and for a good reason! It’s stylish, durable and budget-friendly. But when dirt and grime build up, keeping it clean without causing damage can feel like a challenge. The good news? Restoring your laminate floors to their former glory is easier than you think. With the right tools, cleaning solutions, and a few expert techniques, you can bring back that fresh, polished look in no time. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to tackle stubborn dirt and keep your laminate flooring looking spotless every day. 

Why Dirty Laminate Floors Need Special Care

While laminate flooring may be durable and low-maintenance, when it gets heavily spoiled, it requires special care to avoid damage, streaking, or long-term wear and tear. Unlike wood or tile, laminate has a protective top layer that can be scratched by dirt particles or warped by excess moisture. 

Using the wrong cleaning methods, like soaking the floor with water or scrubbing too harshly with the wrong cleaning tools, can cause permanent damage, leading to swelling, dullness, or the surface peeling off. To keep your laminate flooring looking its best, the key is to have a gentle, targeted approach to cleaning. 

Essential Tools for Cleaning Laminate Floors 

Before you begin cleaning, make sure you have the correct tools and cleaning solutions. 

Using the wrong products can cause streaks, dullness, or even permanent damage to your flooring. 

Best Cleaning Tools to Avoid Damage

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Soft-bristled broom or a microfibre dust mop
  
• Vacuum cleaner with a hard floor setting
  
• Laminate floor cleaner 
  
• Bucket of warm water
  
• Microfibre or soft cloths
  
• Mop (preferably a microfibre or spray mop)
  

Tip: We suggest avoiding abrasive cloths and traditional mops, as they can scratch or leave excessive moisture on your laminate floor.

Step 1 – Start with a Dry Clean

Laminate flooring can be prone to scratches, so disposing of loose debris is essential when it comes to the cleaning process. 

We recommend using a brush with soft bristles or a microfibre dust mop to clean the floor, making sure to go well into the corners and under furniture.

If you use a vacuum cleaner, ensure it’s set to hard floor mode to avoid scuffing the surface. This ensures you don’t accidentally grind more dirt particles into the floor when mopping later.

What Not to Use to Clean Laminate Floors: Never use a vacuum with a rotating brush or beater bar, as these can scratch your laminate flooring.

Step 2 – Pick the Right Cleaning Solution for Your Floor

It’s best to adopt a targeted approach for very dirty laminate floors. There are two ways of doing this: a commercial laminate floor cleaner or a homemade solution.

Best Commercial Cleaners for Laminate Floors

Commercial Cleaner: Look for a product designed especially for laminate floors. The best laminate floor cleaning solution will remove grime without forming a residue or damaging the protective layer of the flooring. DIY Vinegar Solution – Is It Safe for Laminate? Homemade Solution: You can create your own solution by mixing a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and warm water. As one of the best homemade laminate floor cleaners, it’s effective, inexpensive, and does not cause damage to your floors. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to create a pleasant scent. Tip: Avoid using soap-based detergents, wax, or steam cleaners, as they can leave a film, dull the surface, or cause water damage over time.

Step 3 – How to Mop Laminate Floors Without Streaks

Nothing ruins the look of freshly cleaned laminate flooring like streaks and residue. Achieving a streak-free shine is all about using the right tools, techniques, and cleaning solutions. Here is how to get the best results: Use the Right Mop and Cleaner Opt for a microfibre mop or spray mop; these effectively trap dirt without leaving excess moisture. Choose a laminate-friendly cleaning solution and avoid harsh chemicals or wax-based products that can leave a film. Wring Out Excess Water Mop in Sections and Follow the Grain Rinse Your Mop Frequently Dry Immediately for a Polished Finish

Step 4 – Removing Stubborn Stains and Scuff Marks

For tough stains or scuff marks that are particularly difficult to remove, try these simple solutions:

1. Sticky Residue: Add a small amount of undiluted white vinegar to a microfibre cloth and rub the area gently before rinsing well with clean water.
   
2. Grease Stains: Mix a drop of detergent with warm water and then apply it to the area. Once this is done, wipe it clean with a damp cloth and warm water.
   
3. Scuff Marks: You can use a damp cloth with a bit of baking soda to wipe away scuffs before rinsing with warm water.
   

Tip: Always test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the floor’s finish.

Step 5 – Maintaining Laminate Floors for Long-Term Shine

Once you’ve cleaned your laminate flooring, here are a few steps that we recommend following to keep it looking great in the long term. 

Here are our recommendations:

• How to Restore Dull Laminate Floors: A laminate floor polish designed to rejuvenate the surface and restore its original beauty can be applied. But be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to achieve the best results.
  
• How to Make Laminate Floors Shine Naturally: Try using a combination of white vinegar and water to buff the floor using a clean microfibre cloth. This removes any remaining residue and enhances the floor’s natural sheen.
  

How to Prevent Future Dirt Buildup on Laminate

Prevent Future Dirt Buildup: You can help to stop future dirt buildup by using doormats and furniture pads under chair and table legs while also establishing a regular cleaning routine to prevent debris from forming.

Tip: Avoid excessive use of polish or shine products, as overuse can lead to buildup and a cloudy appearance over time, which can be tricky to remove.

FAQs: Answers to Your Laminate Cleaning Questions

How do you remove deep stains from laminate flooring?

Deep stains on laminate flooring can be tricky, but they’re not impossible to remove with the right approach. First, try a mild cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a splash of white vinegar or a gentle laminate floor cleaner. Apply the solution to the stain with a microfibre cloth, rubbing gently in a circular motion. For tougher stains, such as ink or wine, baking soda mixed with a little water can work wonders. Simply apply the paste, leave it for a few minutes, and wipe clean. Always avoid harsh scrubbing tools, as laminate floors can scratch easily.

Are spray mops good for laminate floors?

Yes, spray mops can be a great option for cleaning laminate flooring, provided they’re used correctly. Unlike traditional mops, spray mops control moisture levels, preventing excess water from seeping into the laminate seams and causing damage. Always use a cleaning solution designed for laminate floors and avoid soaking the floor. A microfibre mop head is ideal, as it’s gentle yet effective at picking up dirt and grime. However, steam mops should be avoided, as the heat and moisture can warp the flooring over time.

What should you not clean laminate floors with?

To keep your laminate flooring looking its best, there are a few cleaning products you should steer clear of. Avoid abrasive cleaners, such as scouring powders or rough sponges, as they can scratch the surface. Soap-based detergents and waxes should also be avoided, as they leave behind a residue that can make floors look dull and sticky. Most importantly, never use excess water or steam cleaners, as laminate flooring isn’t waterproof, and too much moisture can lead to swelling and warping. Instead, stick to a damp microfibre mop and a laminate-friendly cleaner for the best results.

Why are my laminate floors still dirty after mopping?

If your laminate flooring still looks dirty after mopping, it could be due to a few common mistakes. First, check that you’re not using too much cleaning solution. Excess product can leave a sticky film that attracts dirt. Also, if your mop isn’t clean, you might be spreading grime rather than removing it. Another issue could be too much water. Laminate floors only need a slightly damp mop, as standing water can cause streaking. For best results, use a microfibre mop and rinse it frequently, ensuring you remove dirt rather than push it around.