Getting a Return on Investment (ROI) is always a delight, as it shows you committed your finances to a good purpose – and not just chasing after the wind. Now, when it comes to getting value for money, it is relative. While some look at the amount of money that hits the bank accounts, others, especially homeowners, evaluate it by the longevity of the furnishings made in the home.
Installing a laminate floor gives that shiny look, and taking good care of it helps to keep the shiny popping for a long time to come. The challenge is how best to clean laminate floorings that do not have waterproof. You will find out how in this article.
Are Laminate Floors Waterproof?
The fact is that laminate floorings are not entirely waterproof, at least, at the initial time. However, they come with some degree of water protection – helping to keep water from the surface for some time.
The non-waterproof floors can be susceptible to water-induced damage if they are left at the mercy of the liquid over an extended time.
The Steps to Cleaning Non-Waterproof Laminate Floors
We now share ideas on how to clean the surface of your non-waterproofed laminate flooring. We hope these ideas help you tidy the floor better.
1. Start with the Mop Selection
The first point is that not all mops are suitable for the cleaning process. The best mop should have these attributes:
- The ability to clean the flooring, without exposing it to dents and or scratches.
- It shouldn’t leave streaks of water behind after cleaning.
- The mop should also be easy to use.
- The ideal mop should not only mop the floor but also pick up dirt in the process.
Out of all the mops in the market, we chose the microfiber mop because it matches most of those requirements.
2. Get Rid of Dirt Particles on the Surface
While water is the greatest enemy of laminate floors, dirt particles also do similar damage. Hence, getting rid of those is a necessity.
Sweep the area with a broom before vacuuming away.
3. Prepare a Homemade Cleaning Solution
The best cleaning solution for laminate floors should be made at home. Except if you have some money to spare and know the right cleaners to buy; it is always better to use the DIY method.
The ingredients include:
- 3 parts of warm water
- 1 part of white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of liquid dishwashing soap.
This is a guide on how to prepare those ingredients:
- Pour 3 parts of warm water into a spray bottle.
- Add the part of white vinegar.
- Add the tablespoon of dish soap.
- Stir until they are well mixed.
4. Apply the Cleaning Solution
Grab your microfiber mop because you are going to need it. Spritz the solution from the spray bottle to the mop. Make sure it is damp. You can use the up-and-down motion to wipe the floor.
Meanwhile, get a bucket and pour some clean water into it. Once the mop gets dirty, dip it into the bucket, rinse, wriggle out excess water, and spritz the vinegar solution on it.
Continue mopping the floor, ensuring that all areas are covered during the cleaning process.
5. Allow the Floor to air-dry
After the last lap of mopping is done; allow the floor to air dry. Open the windows to allow natural air to come into the space.
You can also substitute or add to this with any of the following:
- Turn on the HVAC or;
- Turn the fan on and have it positioned close to the cleaned area.
6. To Vacuum or Not?
While air drying the area is considered a last resort; there may also be a need to vacuum the floor. Once it is dried, get a vacuum cleaner and use the suction power to suck up any other particles on the surface.
Read: How To Make Laminate Floors Shine Naturally
Distinguishing between Waterproof and Water-Resistant Laminate Floors
One of the major reasons why you may get it wrong when cleaning a laminate floor is the perception you view it from. The fact is that traditional or original laminate floorings were not made to be “proof of water.” Rather, the most common attribute they have is water resistance.
In recent years, we have seen flooring manufacturers coming up with waterproof laminate. So, if yours doesn’t have that quality, then being extra careful when cleaning the floor is recommended.
Here are some clear differences between a waterproof and a water-resistant laminate floor:
Old Meets the New
Before, we used to have water-resistant laminate floorings, which, despite not being waterproof, provide a convenient mitigation against liquid penetration.
The Layer Differs
The core layer differentiates the two. The water-resistant laminate floor tends to have a topmost surface that prevents moisture entrance for some time. However, if the liquid is left there for some time, it tends to sip into the fabrics of the floor.
This is unlike the waterproof laminate flooring that has a wide range of layers, including:
- Backing layer
- Wear layer
- Core layer
- Printed design layer
Guidelines for Cleaning Non-Waterproof Laminate Floors
Following the processes below, you can be sure of not just cleaning your non-waterproofed laminate flooring but also aiding the lifespan.
a. Be Choosy with Mops
Keep in mind that not all mops will be used for the cleaning. Picking the wrong mop is an invitation to streaks and dents on the floor, by the time you are done cleaning.
While we recommend the microfiber mop, you can also substitute it with any of the following:
- Microfiber cloth
- A regular mop (only that you need to wring out excess water from it before use).
b. Bucket vs. Spray Bottle
We recommend using a spray bottle instead of a bucket for these reasons:
- There is a need to keep the cleaning solution usage minimal. Spritzing does it better than mopping the floor.
- Besides, mopping the floor with a microfiber cloth/mop is an avenue to deposit more moisture on the surface, especially if the cloth or mop is not thoroughly wriggled to remove excess water.
c. Immediate Spill Removal is Ideal
The fact that the flooring is not waterproofed is enough reason for you to look into every spill. Whether it is your coffee, water, or even soda – ensure that these are removed from the area as soon as you can.
Grab a piece of clean cloth and dab at the spills until they are removed.
d. Tackle Water Puddles
Water pools into an area if it has been left for some time. Also, when cleaning the non-waterproof floor, be on the lookout for sloppy areas, as those are areas where water can sip into with ease.
e. Protective Mats at the Doors are Recommended
As an extra measure to prevent water buildup on the floor, install protective doormats at the doors. These do not only trap water but also prevent dirt and grit from penetrating the house.
f. Do not Use Every Cleaning Tool at Your Disposal
The saying that “when the needed is not available; the available becomes the needed” doesn’t apply to cleaning laminate floorings. The fact is that you are better off using a microfiber cloth or mop than using every cleaning tool readily available.
For instance, scouring pads and steel wool do not make a good cleaning tool, as they scratch the flooring.
g. Certain Cleaning Agents Must not be Used
If you are unsure of the cleaning product to use, stick to white vinegar and warm water. Reason? Some cleaning products are harmful, especially to non-waterproofed floors.
The likes of polish spray and wax must be avoided, as they leave streaks of white film (residue) behind.
Advantages of Laminate Floors that are not Waterproofed
Even though the floor lacks the security provided by waterproofing; it makes up for it in a variety of ways:
a. Versatile Use
You can install the non-waterproofed laminate flooring in different parts of the home, notably:
- Rooms and;
- Kitchens
These are areas that are not only commonly used but are also susceptible to liquid spills. So, imagine having a flooring that lets the water remain on the surface for some time; giving an ample opportunity to have the liquid removed in good time.
b. Non-Waterproofed Laminate Floors are Highly-Resistant
Besides the ability to hold the puddle of water for the time being, non-waterproofed laminate floors also provide an all-around resistance to the following:
- Soft drinks
- Dirt
- Oil
- Wine and;
- Scratches
c. Durability is Assured
The thickness of the flooring ranges between 8 and 12 mm. This provides a sufficient platform for securing the perimeters from liquid-induced damage.
Maximizing the Use of Laminate Floors that are not waterproof
Thinking of a better way to maximize the value of your laminate flooring? Taking good care of it is the major step. We offer below, some tips on how to ensure that the laminate floor is used for as long as possible.
a. Tackle the Residues
You must have noticed a white film on the flooring after cleaning. It is there because of different reasons, one of which is the excess mixture of cleaning agents.
Make efforts to wash the area with clean water and wipe it off with a clean, dry cloth to remove the residue.
b. Protect the Floor from Scratches
Dents and scratches are likely to damage the laminate flooring faster than liquid would. If you have furniture close by, taking these precautions is necessary:
- Avoid gliding or sliding pieces of furniture across or along the laminate floor.
- Do well to install floor protectors or protective pads beneath the furniture. This way, the sharp edges wouldn’t dig a hole into the floor.
c. Install Plywood Panels
This is recommended if you use the laminate flooring often. In areas where there is regular movement, installing plywood or hardboard panels helps to protect the flooring from:
- Heavy traffic/usage and;
- Heavy appliances
d. Trim Your Pets’ Nails
Your pets, especially dogs scratch surfaces. Your laminate flooring is not left out. Therefore, trim the nails so they don’t use them to damage the floor.
e. Buffing the Flooring is Also Worth It
Besides collecting much of the spilled liquid with a clean cloth or a paper towel; you also want to make sure that no moisture is left behind.
Inspect the surface after cleaning the laminate flooring and by running your fingers along the surface, you can tell if there is a puddle of water or an area yet to be cleaned thoroughly.
This is where buffing (extensive wiping of the surface) is needed.
FAQs
1. Can You Mop Laminate Floors that are not Waterproofed?
Yes, with a mixture of three parts of warm water, one part of white vinegar, and one tablespoon of liquid dishwashing soap, you will mop a laminate floor, even if it is not waterproofed.
2. What is the Best Cleaning Tool for Non-Waterproofed Laminate?
We recommend that you use a microfiber mop that helps you clean the dirt particles and leaves the floor shining without any residues. A regular mop can also be used, but only if you will wring out excess water.
3. How to Tackle Stains on Laminate Floors that Aren’t Waterproofed?
Water-resistant laminate floors are ideal for use in areas prone to stains. If the floors get stained, prepare a cleaning solution made up of white vinegar, liquid dish soap, and warm water.
4. Is Buffing Important for Laminate Floors?
Buffing the nonwaterproofed laminate flooring entails getting rid of extra moisture on the surface. Use a clean, dry cloth for this, and use a circular motion to cover all the areas.
5. Can Nonwaterproofed Laminate Floor Resist Moisture?
Yes, the flooring can resist water liquid, and moisture in general for several hours. To elongate the lifespan, be fast at using a clean, absorbent cloth or a paper towel to mop the liquid out of the area.
6. How Many Times to Clean Laminate Floors without Waterproof?
If the flooring is in a high-traffic area (i.e., living room or kitchen), clean it at least thrice a week. But if it is installed in the bathroom, once or twice a week can suffice.
Conclusion: Nonwaterproofed Laminate Floors can be Cleaned
The cleaning process for nonwaterproofed laminate floorings is both simple and inexpensive. The quality and versatility have made them a choice pick for different homes and using the tips in this article, you will clean the floors in the shortest time possible.
