Cleaning & shining laminated floors
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Post By Diane (Guest Post)
(10/10/2008)
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We had Pergo floors put in two years ago. The manufacturer suggest only vinegar and water. This is all I use. It will keep your floors from fading and a keep the original shine. As soon as I am done mopping the floor, I get a big old clean towel, put it down on the floor - stand on the towel and go around the room and dry the floor (only takes about two minutes). Your floor will dry beautifully without any streaks.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Susan (Guest Post)
(10/08/2008)
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My laminate flooring looks dull and you can see footprints on it for hours.. dog feet or cat feet, that may have natural skin oils in them. I do not know the brand. It was here when I bought. Have used all the commercial products. They streak or spot or leave dull residue.
Terrible floor for little kids. No matter how fast I wipe up spills or water tracked in on feet, I have several area where the seams are slightly buckled or warped looking.
I wish I could afford to have it removed and replaced.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By (Guest Post)
(10/07/2008)
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We use Bruce and a Swifer. Bruce spray for laminate floors in a green bottle, and a Swifer! Makes my floors look amazing! And it's cheap.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Angie (Guest Post)
(09/28/2008)
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I agree with most of the folks who've responded here: I thought laminate floors were a much more fashionable look than carpet, but cheaper and "greener" than hardwood. True, as far as it goes, but I am SO sorry I ever did it!
I've only had my pergo floor for a few months, and it looks terrible! The woman at my local distributer suggested that I use one cup amonia in a gallon of water, rather than any laminate cleaner. Tried that, but the floor was covered with waterspots like it had freckles. Then I tried Murphy's Oil Soap and water--it didn't spot so much, but it streaked like mad!
I just tried the vinegar-and-water-in-a-spray-bottle idea, and that worked well in small areas IF I got down on hands and knees and wiped it up immediately.
What I've learned so far is--number one--DON'T put down laminate floors. If you do, avoid all liquid cleaners like the plague unless you can dry the area before it has a chance to spot/streak . I'm going to try the vinegar/water in a spray bottle with a dry mop for really dirty areas, but for the most part, I think it's smarter to use a broom, dust mop, and/or a vaccum cleaner (for bare floors) as much as you possibly can.
In a way, I think I'm going to have to treat this like carpet-be very careful not to get it dirty, sweep the surface frequently, spot clean where necessary, and only very rarely wet the whole thing down and deep clean it. Mopping my laminate floor is as much a major project as shampooing the carpet!
This laminate thing has turned out to be about as practical as having white plush carpet in the kitchen.
Think twice before you install laminate floors!
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Clean Freak (Guest Post)
(09/20/2008)
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We have DuPont laminate floors and they are GREAT! I just clean them with water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid with a microfibre cloth and they look clean and streak-free.
Our neighbour has Pergo floors and she has all the problems mentioned in the other posts. She tried water and dishwashing liquid but that did not help either.
My advice : Don't go for Pergo, go for Dupont.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I have had a terrible problem with my pergo laminate floor. My color is brandied dark cherry and it shows everything. I started using Orange Glo and the first few times it looked great. Then, over a year of doing this atleast once per week, my floors are dark and nasty looking. I went looking for help and found the answer to my prayers. Another member suggested AWESOME cleaner from your local Dollar Tree or Dollar Store. It really works. Thank God! I spray it on, let it set for a couple of minutes and then scrape off. Of course it will take a while, but it is worth it. I have bought about ten bottles and hope to finish this weekend. I am so thankful for that poster. Please try AWESOME. It will get your floors back and then just go with vinegar mix.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By JOHN O MARTIN (Guest Post)
(08/28/2008)
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I used bona hardwood cleaner and it made my floor shine, the next time my wife used a different brand. When I purchased more floor cleaner, I read on a bona bottle that the ceramic floor cleaner can also clean pergo or laminate floors. it seems to have a dullness. I would appreciate your HELP, THANKS
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By (Guest Post)
(07/06/2008)
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I installed Armstrong laminate flooring downstairs. I have a 6 year old and a dog. I also have several visiting neighborhood kids. Prior to even considering removing the carpet I did a ton of research on hardwood vs. laminate. From the installers, manufacturer, to the vendors who sell it all of them specifically state stay away from Swifters, hardwood cleaners, waxing or shine products, Shark steamers, etc. They also state avoid over moisture, etc. Every single person I spoke to during my decision process and after installation specifically stated using the manufacturer's solution OR a very light mist of vinegar and water. If your friends/family are giving you advice look on the Internet first and not just these sites. Go to the flooring experts or manufacturer's site.
I have had my floors for 6 months and not once have I lost the shine on my floors with as much activity as I have in my house. My floors will continue to look new because I don't listen to friends and family when they didn't make the investment on my floors (even if they own them). I am surrounded by people who think they "know everything" and well I would prefer to listen to the experts.
I use my Roomba to sweep and dust and then use a dry dust mop with lambskin and a misting bottle to clean the footprints and streaks from every day wear.
Stay away from anything used for mopping your tile, vinyl, or hardwood floors. NEVER use anything on your laminate floors that is for hardwood - EVER. Never use any solution that is for waxing, shine, etc. unless you know for a fact the manufacturer or laminate floor experts agree it is ok. If you don't you will have dull floors until you make another investment to replace what was ruined.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By amanda (Guest Post)
(06/28/2008)
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I did a TON of research and just bought this for my laminate :
LamanatorPlus Restoration
Protects, seals, stops tracking & footprints, hides scratches, provides new look & shine for all laminate & pre-finished hardwood. Works great on Bamboo floors. Retail Price is $33.98 Look for our other LamanatorPlus Products.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Dan C. (Guest Post)
(06/21/2008)
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It's like the movie, My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Everything can be cured with Windex. I'm using the Windex/Vinegar variety and that is working extremely well for me at the moment. I have Shaw laminate floors.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Debbie (Guest Post)
(06/18/2008)
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I have been reading these posts and am deciding not to get laminate. I have noticed that I touch a sample with my fingers and it leaves a smudge. I would want this for my cottage , with lots of barefeet and shoes wet from the grass. Does anyone know of Amtico vinyl floors? Do they last and clean easy.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Pam (Guest Post)
(06/12/2008)
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I HATE MY PERGO FLOOR! My floor is 3 years old, it seemed to be losing it's shine. I bought a SHARK Steam Cleaner in hopes that it would really give my floor the cleaning it needed. Well, it didn't work. So then someone told me to use a small amount of Mop N GLom which I did, which left it with streaks. A week later, I used the SHARK steamer again and now my floor is dull, has residue buildup all over it and also shows footprints (which it NEVER had before!) I am now in the BIGGEST mess trying to remove the residue. I have tried everything recommended from this forum and it still looks terrible! I looked up "HOW TO REMOVE MOP N GLO" and came up with a site that some guy knows the perfect recipe for removing it but you have to PAY him for the recipe (which I don't want to do because it's probably something I have already tried and also a scam!) I am a clean freak so this is driving me crazy! I am ready to 1. Call a cleaning company or 2. Rip this floor out! I can't stand looking at it any longer! HELP! HELP! HELP!
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Ali (Guest Post)
(06/06/2008)
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It's impossible to keep floors dry as we have several big dogs who live in the house. They take a drink of water and trail it through the house. I used Windex and dry mop, an it cleans, but floor looks dull. I recently used my steamer lightly and it cleaned great...lots of dirt. But floor is very dull. I'll give up and just be content that it's clean. Home Depot said not to buy wood (same price as laminate) because dogs nails would scratch. Now I wonder if we made the right choice. Dogs slip on it badly. I would have kept my carpet and just bought a Dyson. Great vacuum.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Sherry (Guest Post)
(05/29/2008)
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We have had laminate flooring for three years now. I have had trouble finding something that will clean them and look nice. I used Murphy's Mop and Shine and while it looks good as long as it is wet, it looks dull once it has dried. I tried water and that is the worst looking mess.
We have had trouble with the finish bubbling around the edges. I am looking for something to clean them that doesn't kill your back.
We bought the house with this stuff in it and will never use it again on any house.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By chruistine (Guest Post)
(05/27/2008)
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I'm so glad I'm not alone. I hate my floor!
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By JoAnn (Guest Post)
(05/19/2008)
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What about those of us who DO NOT have Pergo floors! We just had BHK laminate floors installed and it gets on my last nerve. It looks clean for the first few hours of back breaking work and then right back to square one. The sad part is we covered hard wood floors with stuff rather than go through all of the sanding/refinishing mess. Never again!
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By carol (Guest Post)
(05/18/2008)
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Wow, I've read all of these posts regarding cleaning laminate floors. One year ago I had 1500 sq foot of Manington Hicory Plank Laminate Flooring. That was 7 thousand dollars worth of flooring. It was installed by us and a few friends and relatives. In my opinion this is the very WORST product I've ever seen. It is near impossible to keep it looking clean. Everything seems to leave a residue, streaks or ripples the paper top!
Forget trying to get the manufacturer to back their product. When I purchased the product I was told by sales reps that this was the very best flooring available and that if you have pets, which we do, that it was the most durable product on the market. HUH! My dog had an accident and peed on the floor and it lifted or bubbled the finish of the laminate. I contacted the manufacturer and they told me that animal or human urine on the floor voids the warranty. I believe this floor had a 25 yr warranty on it.
This is the BIGGEST RIP OFF and should be illegal or misrepresentation of a product. MANINGTON sure saw us coming. My advice is simple. Don't bother with Laminate flooring. It's not what they say it is. It's a total waste of your money and you will spend more time fretting about the high maintenance than you will enjoying it.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Scott in AZ (Guest Post)
(05/08/2008)
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After buying the green Bruce and a swiffer-type flat mop that came with the kit, I just redid my floor for the 3rd time. The Bruce and the swiffer-type mop left the floor dull, then I used a wood floor cleaner (Murphy's Oil Soap) which left streaks from the mop, and the third and final time I used vinegar and water with a used face cloth and then an old small towel to dry...that finally did the trick...whew!
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
Johnsons no buff and wax will do the trick. Get it a Lowes.
Use a soft rag to apply evenly. DO NOT USE A SPONGE MOP.
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
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Post By Elizabeth (Guest Post)
(05/04/2008)
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RE Using a swiffer: The floor company that installed my laminate floors told us not to use swiffers cloths on the floor. The fibers get trapped between the boards and will ruin the floors
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RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
We put a wood grain laminate on our kitchen. It is the kind that comes in wide strips like wood planks and is about the same thickness as the stuff that used to be sold from a large roll. I was afraid of vinegar because of the acid content. About once a week I clean it with hot salt water. It comes clean and leaves no streaks.
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Request: Cleaning Laminate Floors
Can you make laminate floors shine? Mine has a dull luster to them?
Linda from Cambridge, OH
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I just read on a different site that a person had some sticky tape on her floor and tried everything and finally decided to try peanut butter, as it gets gum out of hair. She claimed it worked very well. Good luck (02/10/2007)
By Valerie
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I have never been able to get my laminate flooring to look right. It looked great right after installation. I used the Bruce laminate floor cleaner and it seemed to leave streaks. Then I started using plain water. It still looks horrible. You cannot remove the streaks.I am sick and tired of mopping and then having to get on my hands and knees to dry this mess.I regret ever wasting my money on it. If anyone is thinking about laminate. Reconsider hard wood or tile anyday.I can't wait until I can afford to change to tile or hardwood.Whoever invented this stuff, needs to be seriously reprimanded for false advertisement and we should all be compensated for the headache it has caused us. (02/16/2007)
By Lisa
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
Vinegar & Water is the best to use with a microfibre mop or rag and there are no streaks left.
I came looking for alternatives to the vinegar as the smell doesn't leave that "just cleaned" scent.
I've also read the Windex works well so I am going to try it (in a small area) and see how it does as it smells better but if it doesn't, I'm back to the vinegar - at least it cleans well and no streaks. It's also the best for removing hard water stains on tubs, taps, coffee pots - anything. And it's CHEAP! (03/13/2007)
By Ronda
Laminate Floors
Just wanted to let everyone know that if you are considering laminate floors, go with Trafficmaster or DuPont. Easy to keep clean and looks beautiful right after installation. Pergo seems to stay dull no matter what. You can take a damp swiffer with you to Home Depot and wipe a small spot on samples to test shine. The sample display is always dusty and dirty and oily (from fingers), so you get a better idea of what the flooring will be like in your home. (04/16/2007)
By Robin
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I used to clean professionally for awhile and we did tons of laminates and hardwoods. I absolutely loved them! So, once my grandmother was getting rid of the carpet, she got laminate, Armstrong brand. Well, don't buy Armstrong. We got the Oak color, and I can not get rid of this clear residue all over! It streaks like crazy and as soon as you walk on it, you see everything! When I cleaned these homes, We used Bruce and it works greaT! No streaking, nothing. But, I DO think it has a lot to do with what floor brand you pick. Because I never had any problem using Bruce on any of the laminates or hardwoods I have come across.
I have tried so many things here myself. Ammonia and water, Bruce, Zep, something Armstrong (the floor makers make, NOT the blue Armstrong product.) produces. I am about to go use Armstrong (the blue product found at local grocer's) and see how this works as it states no residue and I have used this before, on vinyl floors.
I have heard to get this residue off to use Alcohol (isopropyl) and water. So, if Armstrong doesn't work, I am off to use water and alcohol.
But, as far as durability, I have two german shepard/rott mix dogs and they have yet to scratch it. And I have a cat that they chase all over the house. The only thing I have a problem with was the furniture when we first laid it, but I quickly got the stopper things for my furniture, and a-okay! (04/21/2007)
By Nicole
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I do not know the brand of flooring I have, but I use vinegar and water to clean, and then I use Quick Shine and it works great. If you have "scratches", you can use the new "eraser" sponges to get them out, but be careful not to do it too much, because it can leave your floor looking even more scratched. The Quick Shine product works AWESOME to make it shine and even protects it from my dog's nails and my two year old's spills. It does have a build up sometimes where I stop my mop, but just clean it with the vinegar and water and it comes off. Also, be sure it dries completely before replacing your furniture, or it will stick to the floor leaving marks. (04/22/2007)
By Kelly
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
After reading and experimenting this is what I found worked best for my laminate floors.
Vinegar worked better than ANY other cleaner I've used.
It was my mop that left the streaks....so I have to wash my floor by hand if I want it to look streak free and it makes it feel the most clean.
I have to wait until it is completely dry before I move anything on it.
I also have a comment about the using alcohol; I had some spill on my laminate floor...I wiped it up immediately but it ate the finish off my floor. Not sure it is something I would try on my floor. (06/11/2007)
By Holly
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I bought a house with laminate flooring in the living room, and didn't know too much about it, so cleaned it with lysol and murphy soap and was disgusted by the streaks! I also looked around and did the vinegar and water wash on my hands and knees, drying after I wash. After this first time, I bought volleyball kneepads! Like a take on the movie Karate Kid - wash on, dry off. It was the only method that worked for me. I will try the in-between ideas so I don't have to wreck my knees. I hope it works for me!
Also - in regards to shoes, I've been to homes that the owner requests "shoe removal" but what if you have sandals or no socks or? After living in Germany, where shoes are a no-no in many homes - my hostesses had the perfect solution, a basket of clean "anklet socks" (not the surgical slippers) or where I was a frequent guest, my own set of house slippers. From that experience, I try to carry a set of anklets in my car, I can appreciate the effort going into getting a clean non streaking floor and keeping off foot oils. (06/16/2007)
By Polish-German Girl
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I thought I would love my floors, I hated vacuuming all the time; plus the allergy factor. Boy was I suprised on how much I hate them now.. I have 2 dogs and 2 cats a son w/friends. Seems like these floors are dirty all the time. The dust that is collected on the floors. Having to get down on my hands and knees to wash them; its more trouble then carpet. I have finally found something to bring a shine to my floors after almost a year of having those stupid things Pledge and a swiffer dusting mop. My floor are finally pretty as if they was just installed. I have 2000 square feet of this stuff. I wouldnt do it again. (07/01/2007)
By Kathie
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors/Pergo
Myself and 2 sisters installed Pergo floor in my kitchen, dining room and hallway in 4 days. And that included ripping out carpet and padding that had been in the house for at least 30 years before I bought it. But I'm getting aways from the CLEANING!
Buy a standard sponge mop, a package of microfiber shop towels from Costco (these are yellow and in the auto section) and a thick rubber band. Put the rubber band around the handle of the sponge mop close to the mop head. Wrap one of the DRY microfiber towels around the head of the mop and secure it with the rubber band. DO NOT USE TAP WATER when you mix your vinegar and water or whatever solution you are going to use. Most cities have chlorine, fluoride (for your kids teeth) or other chemicals in their water. This will create the white film everyone keeps talking about. If you have hard water or soft water it doesn't matter. YOU WILL SEE THE FILM. I use the distilled water you would use in your irons for my solutions.
Spray close to the floor so you don't have a lot of over spray. Now here is the trick. Use one side of your mop head to clean the floor then flip to the dry side and wipe until you see it's dry. Move on to the next area. When the towel is too dirty for your liking remove and replace with a clean one. After you finish your floor toss the towels in the washing machine with hot water soap and bleach follow with a second and final rinse with 1/4 cup of white vinegar to your rinse water to remove all soap from your towels. Dry in dryer WITHOUT FABRIC SOFTENER and they are good to go for the next time.
Don't waste your hard earned money on products that use the little toss away towels. I bought my microfiber shop towels a year ago for 10 dollars and they haven't even began to fade from the washings or started to wear. I know I've saved a lot of money.
Oh and by the way. I LOVE MY FLOORS! I recommend Pergo to anyone I see looking at laminates when I'm in Home Depot or Lowe's. I let them know if 3 women can install it in 4 days with absolutely no experience they can too. (09/08/2007)
By dollyjane
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
Well I love my laminated floors. I have had to learn however to NOT put those "shiner" oily "recommended" cleaners and polishers on it.
Let's remember. with wood and now the laminate floors, it is not important to SHINE, but just be clean. And for sure not use too much water. The vinegar and water in a mop wrung out works best. An old fashioned dust mop (hard to find) or a swiffer or GOOD old fashioned broom keeps the trash up.
I see so many here unhappy. I guess because they can SEE the dirt. Carpet hides the dirt and is nasty. I grew up with wood floors, and tile floors, yes they have to be swept.
I know in the magazines the floors "shine" but that takes polish and wax. I can remember my mother scraping floor wax up off her tile floor with a knife full of dirt. Yes when waxed, it was "beautiful:, but it wasn't clean. The same is with laminated and wood floors. The wax captures dirt and grime.
The important thing with a laminate or wood floor is the decrease of allergens and mold. And what is wrong with seeing the dirt? Then you know to get it up.
I had a friend who hated her smooth top stove. I love mine, the grease and grime is on the top to see and clean, not under the burner or in the stove to find late and say YUCK. Laminated and wood floors are the same.
So, I say we are spoiled, and want to HIDE our dirt, not clean it up. I have been an asthmatic since childhood, and to be done with carpet is the best thing that has happened to me since the hardwood floors I grew up with.
Incidentally, if you would buy a GOOD old fashioned broom, instead of the small little get by brooms you would be better off. I actually have had to buy good old fashioned, straw brooms on line. You can't get in stores. I bought two for $12.00 on line and am sure they will last me the rest of my life and I'm only 54.
In closing, don't cover up the dirt, don't wax as it creates dirt, just clean. (04/06/2008)
By admatin
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Request: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I am looking into having laminate flooring installed in my bedroom. I want a white/washed pine color as my trim is white and the walls are a lightlite blue. I was wondering if there are any tips on taking care of this type of floor. My husband is very messy and tends to spill drinks in the bedroom. I have not been able to keep carpet clean on his side of the bed so I am going to have that taken up and the laminate put down. Any suggestions or tips would be greatly appreciated!
Cookiepom from Owensboro, KY
Answers:
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
We put down laminate flooring in our living and dinning room and a hall way last winter. It is honey oak and very nice. I have followed the manufacturers directions for cleaning. Strictly vinegar and water. I use a stick vac to sweep because our dog seems to shed hair year round. The dust mop is OK once in a while. Also, we don't walk barefoot on it. I am very pleased with the ease of keeping it clean. I have never used any cleaners with soap or oil in them. I was told that is a no no. I don't ever want carpeting again. In fact, we have purchased more of this flooring for the three rooms that still have carpeting. (08/25/2006)
By Harriet
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I'd be sure to put a throw rug near the hubby's side of the bed to catch his spills. Or perhaps you can get him to try bottled water with a spout type top. (grin)
I use a Swiffer mop with a wet wipe on it. Its great!!! I cant say enough about this invention! I use refills from the dollar store. They're 20 for $1. I shish and then turn it over and use the other side. It picks up all the pet hairs and grit. I've found that vaccuming is just a waste of time. (08/26/2006)
By Carol in PA
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
Holloway house quick shine works wonderful on laminate floors. Try it on a small leftover piece or in a closet. You will be pleasantly surprised. (09/02/2006)
By marty
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
THe recommended solution from PERGO is 1 cup white vinegar to a gallon of water, using a damp cotton cloth mop. You can also use 1/3 cup of white vinegar to a gallon of water, and also acetone(nail polish remover) to get glue, gum, and paint even scuff. No soap or deteregnt cleaner, wax or oil, since this leaves a milky residue, dullness and attracts dirt. Swiffer dry is good to use, but not swiffer wet or sponge or wet mop because it will get water in the seams and under the floor and cause water damage eventually pulling floor up causing it to buckle due to moisture. Also replace wheels to rubber wheels and use felt protectors. Have a rubnber backed rug in doorway to protect from bringing in dirt or anything to scrath your floors- this information is on www.pwego.com on maintenance info.(b)(/b) (09/14/2006)
By
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
The surface layer of Pergo flooring is hard and compact, so dirt and dust do not adhere to it easily. The following simple steps are usually all it takes to keep your floor clean.
For general cleaning, use a dust mop, vacuum with the hard-floor attachment of your vacuum cleaner or wipe occasionally with a damp cotton or cloth mop.
For heavier cleaning, use Pergo's Laminate and Hard Surface cleaner or a mixture of household vinegar and water (1-cup vinegar to 1-gallon warm water) or household ammonia and water (1/3 cup ammonia to 1-gallon warm water). Do not use soap or detergent-based cleaners, wax-based products or any type of polish on Pergo floors, as they leave a dull, filmy residue.
There is never a need to wax or refinish your Pergo floor.
Protect the Floor
This can be found on WWW.PERGO.COM and also felt protectors and changing plastic/metal wheels are to be replaced by Rubber wheels.
http://www.pergo.com/US_Maintanence_Info.aspx
(09/14/2006)
By Amira
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
Spot Removal
Pergo stain resistance means peace of mind for you and easy clean up. So, when the inevitable happens, use the following guide for stain and spot removal:
For chocolate, grease, juice, cordials and wine - use lukewarm water and a non-abrasive cleaner (such as, ammonia and water) or Pergo Floor Cleaner.
For tar, markers, crayon, lipstick, oil, shoe polish, ink, nail polish and cigarette burns - use acetone/nail polish remover or denatured alcohol. Note: Do not use acetone on Pergo wallbase or quarter round.
For candle wax and chewing gum - let harden and scrape carefully with a blunt plastic scraper
http://www.pergo.com/US_Maintanence_Info.aspx (09/14/2006)
By Amira
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
Protect the Floor
While Pergo is remarkably durable, there is of course no such thing as an indestructible flooring material. There are a few simple protective measures that are important to keep your floor looking new.
To protect your Pergo floor from surface scratches, place walk-off area rugs or mats inside any exterior doorway to collect small bits of gravel that may track in on shoes.
Use felt floor protectors (available at Pergo retailers) on the legs of chairs, sofas, TV stands, tables and other easily movable furntiture.
Replace plastic casters on chairs with rubber wheels and lift rather than slide heavy objects across the floor.
Minor damage to a Pergo plank or tile can be easily repaired with Pergo Finishing Putty. If the damaged area is larger than 1/4 of an inch, a Pergo retailer can recommend a professional to replace an entire plank or tile.
http://www.pergo.com/US_Maintanence_Info.aspx (09/14/2006)
By Amira
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I used Halloway Quick Shine and was thrilled with the shine on my Pergo Floors... for about a year. Then between the build up of the product and some marks on the floor that I could not remove I did some research. You can use acetone nail polish or turpentine on Pergo. I decided to test full strength on my worst area... Amazing results. In fact a haze that I had after my floors were installed (thats the reason I used the Halloway quick shine) is now gone and they look better than new. I am now taking everyones advice and sticking to water and the Pergo cleaner for tough stains. (10/05/2006)
By Marianne
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I, too, would go back to carpet anyday! As stated, vinegar and water sprayed on a sponge mop or dip the mop in the mixture, blot it on a towel then mop.
But first, buy one of these huge mops at Lowe's that have terry cloth covers. After mopping with the sponge mop, dry it with the terry cloth mop. It is a giant hassle and I wish I'd read these posts before buying laminate flooring (10/19/2006)
By Carol
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
The only solution that i've found that doesn't leave streaks is Pledge wood floor cleaner. It's the best. It leaves a nice shine and doesn't build up either. (10/22/2006)
By Birgit
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Request: Cleaning Laminate Floors
What is the best way to clean the groves between the planks on laminate flooring? I have scrubbed them on my hands and they still look grimy.
Abeyta from Las Cruces, NM
Answers:
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I live in Hawaii where it is customary to take off your shoes before entering a house. This habit makes a lot of sense. Do you really want people to wear shoes in your house after walking in public restrooms, on city streets, or in yards where there are animals?. I would much rather have a few footmarks on my laminate floor (and there are few) than the bacteria and just plain old dirt that would be brought in on the soles of shoes. (04/20/2006)
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
Windex and a Swiffer mop works for my laminate floors. This was even the cleaning recommendation of the salesman that sold it to me. (04/23/2006)
By Jenifer
RE: Cleaning Pergo Floors
For best cleaning, I have found that Clean & Brite works quite well without leaving any residue. (05/02/2006)
By Cory
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I have lived in this house for over a year and hate the laminate flooring that is here. My husband can't simply wear socks as he has plantar fascia and must wear shoes in the house. I never had these problems with my hardwood floors and even though I have animals, I can't wait to change out these floors and put hardwood down! The scratches never looked as bad as this streaky floor. I get exhausted cleaning it - trying to get it to look good. The expense of refinishing wood floors seems minimal now when I think how these floors never look good no matter how hard I work at them and how many things I try. I have used just water, vinegar and water, the water, vinegar, alcohol, few drops of dishwashing soap (the best yet) and still they streak. I have tried lots of different mops and only if I want to get down on my hands and knees to clean 1400 sq. ft - I am left with streaks. Since they are in my living room with lots of sun and light - it stands out like a sore thumb. At least I am glad to know it is not just me! I kept thinking there must be something I am missing! I am going to try some of the other suggestions but honestly if you are thinking about laminate flooring, do yourself a favor and save your money. Put in hardwood! (05/19/2006)
By Lynn
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I have recently installed Pergo brand Prairie Red Pine in the Select category. This is supposedly Pergo's top brand. I have yet to get the floor clean using Pergo's instructions, ammonia and water, vinegar and water. I am in the process of filing a claim with Pergo to have someone come out and go over my floor with acetone. This is what the independent inspector since by Pergo said was needed. It seems according to my retailer this is a common problem with Pergo floors but not one which has been shared with the consumer or one mentioned in any literature. I love how Pergo shows in their catalog "Easy to clean, kids and pets are no problem!" This is a joke, if I could take me floor out and put back the old flooring, I'd do it in a heartbeat. (05/19/2006)
By Rosie
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
To strip the floors of any and all cleaning residue, use ammonia! Make it about 2 cups to a gallon of hot water, wipe on, let sit 3 minutes, and wipe it off. It worked for me after trying everything! I got my original luster back too!
Also, I have realized that Windex applied by hand or used in conjunction with a Swiffer mop or Clorox mop works really well! You still have to mop in the direction of the grain though! Still after a day of kids,dogs, and cats running through the house, it is a horrible mess! I would not ever get laminate again in any room and would highly recommend if you are thinking about it to go with ceramic tile instead! This was one big horrible expensive mistake!
Also, I have tried a friend's Hoover Flip It and it doesn't work because it leaves too much liquid on the floor and dries streaky. It does work great for the ceramic tile! (05/22/2006)
By suzi_homemaker01
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I just laid down Pergo recently and haven't had any of the problems being described here. I agree with Ralph's post: PAY ATTENTION TO THE EXPERTS!. It's important to realize that the laminate flooring is what it is. You can't expect it to shine quite like real hardwood does. You're getting what you paid for. Simply using water and a regular old fashioned sponge mop has worked best for me... oh yeah, and a simple dust mop for between cleanings helps a ton. Ignore all of the other products, you don't need them. (06/20/2006)
By Just Per(go)fect!
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
Someone indicated they'd rather have ceramic tile: I need to warn you that glass dropped will shatter into many pieces (more than you ever imagined) and that it is not a resilient surface, so if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, your feet and legs will talk back. (06/21/2006)
By Holly
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
After a lot of struggle we figured out a way not to leave streaks on our pergo floor.
Mix 1 cup white vinegar to 1 gallon of water. Use a spray bottle to spray a little on the floor. Use a white Terry cloth to evenly spread the water in a section of the floor. Immediately use a dry terry cloth to wipe the water off the floor.
The trick is to wipe the floor of water with dry cloth, otherwise STREAKS will be formed, and the floor will look ugly. The floor will look very clean after this process. (06/24/2006)
By gayathri
RE: Cleaning Laminate Floors
If you are looking to get the SHINE back follow the directions on REJUVINATE (you can buy it at Home Depot) and then keep it up every 3 months as directed. The trick is: every time it gets wet, dry it immediately. To clean it, whatever cleaner you choose, go with the grain wipe it up directly after wetting it with either cleaner or water solutions whichever you prefer. Making sure to DRY it with a dry cloth, not a damp towel for the entire floor, (eventually it will be too wet to use)is key to keeping it streak free while and after cleaning. ;o) (07/01/2006)
By Stay at home momma
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Request: Cleaning Laminate Floors
I have been using a swiffer with the hardwood flooring solution to clean my kitchen laminate hardwood floor (Pergo). This has seemed to be the only thing I could do as misting water with any solution only resulted in spots all over my floor unless I got on my hands and knees and dried it right after washing.
I've noticed that my floor has started to lose its luster (I'm not sure if it's age or the swiffer solution) so I tried Murphys Oil Soap (the kind that you spray directly from the bottle on your floor) it worked GREAT... until you walked on it (with or without socks), then it left feet marks all over, it looked almost greasy.
Can anyone help me?
Sheila from Michigan
Answers:
RE: Need Help Cleaning a Laminate Hard Wood Floor
Hi Sheila. I had the same problem with my laminate flooring. But, I think I have the solution, it worked for me. Make sure you vacuum or Swiffer your floors VERY well,then take Vim, the gel cleanser, and mix it with water as directed. Now, the real trick is to empty out your solution in the wet Swiffer bottle, and refill it with the Vim solution. Drill a hole in the top of the bottle , fill with your Vim solution, and cover it with a piece of plumbers tape You CAN get the top of the bottle off, small end, but it takes some doing... but, it is the best way. This solution works great for me and I have a dog and 2 hairy cats! Hope this works for you, and good luck.
Debi
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
I have wood laminate also. I had the same problem, but I purchased a new sponge mop recently, works great. Also, my Father-In-Law who works at a lumber yard said the only way your supposed to clean laminate is with warm water, no cleaners added at all. That has also worked wonders for me. By doing it this way, I think it will not fade over time either. Good luck!
By Julie
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
The manufacturer of Pergo laminate flooring includes care instructions with the flooring. They recommend cleaning the floor with a mixture of white vinegar & water. This should be applied on a damp rag or mop, not leaving puddles or a surface that is so wet it will damage the flooring. Works, vinegar is an excellent cleaner, sanitizer & doedorizer. You can also call the manufacturer of your flooring (toll free #) to inquire about cleaning.
by kidsNclutter
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
You can purchase laminate floor cleaner from Home Depot in a Huge bottle, use this to refil the swiffer wet jet cleaner bottle (you can get the top of the bottle with plyers easily the first time, and then hand opening works fine) or hand spray this solution onto the floor and mop. The terry cloth mop heads that you can toss into the washing machine do a WAY better job of cleaning then the swiffer. Also, to all those complaining about footprints on the floor. If you are seeing foot prints on your laminate floor... YOU HAVE A CLEANER RESIDUE ON YOUR FLOOR. A truly clean laminate floor does not show foot/hand prints.
By Holstesstwinkie
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
I have had Pergo flooring for years. The only method I have ever used is a 1-1 mixture of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Just spray a fine mist directly on the floor and damp mop with any clean mop head. I just use an old towel in a mop and this cleans extremely well, leaving absolutely no prints and the floor has a nice luster to it. No greasy look, not slippery, no steaks, no prints; just a nice, clean floor. I have never gotten on my hands and knees to clean the floor.
By Twinklesmom
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
I have been told by several floor experts that you are NOT to use anything on a laminate floor other than water. Any cleaner will leave a residue.
By Pam
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
I use Zep floor cleaner from home depot. Works wonder's you can buy hardwood floor cleaner mop that has removeable terrycloth head (so you can wash it) best thing ever! I have tried everything and this works!
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
Your floor looks dull because the cleaning solution in swiffer contains soap. The soap sits on top of your floor and attracts dust and dirt. Laminate floors are easy care/no wax surfaces. You need to use the approved laminate floor care cleaner from the manufacturer or a mixture of 1 part vinegar to 10 part water. The vinegar will remove the soap and any other sticky residue and will not leave water spots.
Also Murphy's oil soap is a bad idea. It will make the floor shine for the first day, but it will just attract dirt and dust and be a major pain to clean off.
You cannot shine or polish laminate floors in anway. The original "luster" of the floor is the best you can get.
Footprints (human and animal alike) appear because feet have oil and sweat glands that will transfer to your floors if you don't wear socks. Bare feet will also do this to carpet. The oil and sweat attract dirt and dust.
By Chelsea (Guest Post)
RE: Laminate Wood Floor Cleaning Problems
I spent a fortune for the best brand of laminate flooring that Armstrong makes. The laminate flooring has only been down a few months, and I am not happy with it whatsoever. I use Armstrongs recommended NO WAX floor cleaners, I've tried the water/vinegar, and even a damp cloth to wipe the floor, but dispite numerous attempts to get the floor to look nice without water/soft cloth marks is almost impossible.
Prior to buying Armstrong 30 year laminate, I requested a sample and put that sample through all kinds of tests. The sample passed my tests, but the actual floor when it was installed did not meet up to the sample. There are dings in the product from a dropped teaspoon, so I'm thinking Armstrong sent me flawed flooring.
I would NEVER buy laminate flooring again.
by Rebeccas5suns
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
There are two good products for pet smells anywhere.
One is ZeroOdor.org Read about it. If the source of the odor trickled between the planks, it may take more than once, because you have to get all layers affected.
The same is true for the other product, found at pet stores. I prefer ZeroOdor, but others swear by this one. It's called Nature's Miracle.
Good luck.
by the Oracle
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
BTW,
Walking in the house. Didn't your mother ever ask you if you were raised in a barn?
If you want to walk barefoot, walk on the lawn or on the pool lap, or in the barn.
In the house, bare feet leave dead skin cells and oil on everything. That's an oily, dirty film (like behind your ears) on carpets, hard floors, and laminate. This is not only dirt, it makes other dirt stick to it. Yuk.
So wear socks unless you want to clean the floors every day. In fact, anyone found sockless will be on the flooring detail in this house. You may quote me.
Post by the Oracle
RE: Laminate Wood Floor (Pergo) Cleaning Problems
Sounds to me like all the people who are having problems aren't paying attention to the manufacturer's directions. We have a 5 year old Pergo floor in one room that has never had anything on it but Pergo Brand cleaner or the recommended vinegar/water solution. It has worn so well we are putting down more in other rooms.
By Ralph (Guest Post)
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