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One of the greatest benefits of laminate flooring is that it requires so little care, upkeep and maintenance. The very best laminate floors feature special “wear layers” that prevent scratches, dents, dings and fading from exposure to sunlight. So they are perfect for busy families and high-traffic living spaces.

Although laminate floors are extremely durable, they are not indestructible. Keeping these tips in mind will ensure your laminate floor will look newer, longer.

Take this true/false quiz to test your knowledge on laminate maintenance!

1. Doormats are needed only at the front door.

False. Place doormats or walk-off mats at each entryway to collect excessive moisture and dirt. Place doormats or walk-off mats at each entryway to collect excessive moisture and dirt.

2. Any type vacuum is suitable for cleaning laminate floors.

False. Sweep, dust-mop or vacuum using a vacuum without a beater bar on your floor to remove loose dirt and grit. Use a vacuum attachment to access those hard to reach areas.

3. Laminate floors should be mopped like any other floor.

False. Laminate floors should be mopped periodically with a damp mop to restore your floors shine. After damp mopping, use a clean, dry cloth to soak up excess moisture. Less is more. Use only a small amount of cleaner.

4. Any household cleaner can be used to clean laminate floors.

False. Purchase a laminate cleaner specifically made by the manufacturer for your particular floor instead of using household cleaners that are found in the grocery stores.

5. Floor protectors should be used on the bottom of furniture.

True. Use floor protectors on the bottom of your furniture and when moving furniture, lift rather than drag it across your floor, scratching the floor.

6. Abrasive cleaners, steel wool or scouring powder should never be used on laminate floors.

True. These will scratch the finish on your floors.

7.Soap-based detergents or “mop and shine” products should never be used on laminate floors.

True. These products can put an unwanted film on the floor.

8.Your laminate floor can stand up to a flood or water.

False. You should never flood your laminate floor with water or cleaners. Laminate floors are more resistant to water than hardwood, but not water proof.

9.You should never attempt to sand or refinish your laminate floor.

True. Your floors are carefully engineered and structured to perform. Sanding or refinishing

10.Technical support is available for detailed care and maintenance instructions.

True! Use Technical Support!! Most floor manufacturers and cleaning manufacturers have toll free numbers to technical support that will be happy to answer your questions.

Recap:

1. Place doormats or walk-off mats at each entryway to collect excessive moisture and dirt.
2. Sweep, dust-mop or vacuum (without a beater bar) your floor to remove loose dirt and grit.
3. Periodically use a damp mop to restore your floors shine.
4. Purchase a laminate cleaner specifically made by the manufacturer for your particular floor.
5. After damp mopping, use a clean, dry cloth to soak up excess moisture.
6. Use floor protectors on the bottom of your furniture and when moving furniture, lift rather than drag it across your floor.
7. Never use abrasive cleaners, steel wool or scouring powder.
8. Never use soap-based detergents or “mop and shine” products.
9. Never flood your laminate floor with water or cleaners.
10. Never attempt to sand or refinish your laminate floor.