What happens if you wash laminate flooring with a steam mop?

Can I clean laminate flooring with a steam mop? Opinions on the Internet and among store consultants often differ. Some argue that it is possible, others categorically state that it is not. We propose to finally dot the i’s in order to understand what household appliances to use to clean the room.

Subtleties of laminate care

Laminate is a building material based on very durable wood fiber boards. A stabilizing layer is attached to the bottom to protect against deformation, and polymers are applied to the top to prevent abrasion and dents.

There are different types of laminate flooring. Household laminate of classes 21–23 is less durable and less resistant to moisture and damage than commercial laminate of classes 32–33.

Initially, the dry method is recommended for cleaning laminate flooring. Without any fear, you can use a vacuum cleaner, brushes, broom, napkins, dry rags. Wet cleaning is also acceptable, but under no circumstances should wet spots, stains, or puddles be left on the floor.

Hot water with steam is considered especially harmful to laminate. In this form, moisture penetrates the boards much faster, which can lead to swelling and deformation of the floor covering. From this we could conclude that it is impossible to use a steam mop, if not for one “but” - the high-quality protection against moisture penetration provided by some manufacturers and reliably sealed seams during floor installation.

To wash or not to wash?

Having analyzed all the features of laminate flooring, we can draw the following conclusion: You can wash laminate flooring with a steam mop, but only certain ones - class 32 and above, which must be moisture-resistant and sealed. At the same time, you should follow a number of important cleaning rules and take a responsible approach to choosing household appliances.

Which laminate can be washed?

So, the use of a steam mop is allowed if the laminate class is 32 or higher. In addition, it is desirable that it have water-repellent properties (this is indicated by the “aqua” marking). Finally, the third important condition for safe steam treatment is the installation method and high-quality sealing of joints. The locking method of fastening better protects the seam, and deep impregnation with wax cannot be removed even with a fingernail and reliably protects the laminate from exposure to wet steam.

It should be borne in mind that the characteristics stated on the packaging do not always correspond to reality. In fact, the laminate may be of lower quality. Chinese materials are especially guilty of this. And the method of installation is of great importance.

Before you steam mop your floor, it is recommended to do a small test in an inconspicuous place (under the bed, behind a closet).

Which steam mop can be used to clean laminate flooring?

The right choice of household appliances is the key to high-quality, fast and safe cleaning of laminated flooring.

Prices for mops start at 3,500 rubles, but it’s better not to skimp and choose a device from the mid-price segment or even premium class. You should pay attention to the manufacturer and characteristics of a particular model. A well-known brand and automatic steam adjustment depending on the type of coating will protect you from unpleasant surprises.

Examples of steam mops that can be used to clean laminate flooring:

• Philips FC7028/01. The manufacturer guarantees full compatibility of the device with any type of flooring: laminate, parquet, tiles, linoleum. Three rags easily and quickly absorb moisture and stains dissolved by steam. For cleaning in hard-to-reach places, a triangular nozzle is included. The device is powerful (1500 W), spacious (0.45 l water tank) and does not require the use of detergent.
• Black & Decker FSM1630. The peculiarity of this steam mop model is the shortest possible time for heating the water. Within 15 seconds after switching on, you can wash laminate or any other floor covering. By changing the attachment, the device can be turned into a steam cleaner.
• Vax S 86-SF-C-R. Premium mop. It is equipped with special nozzles for different types of coatings. Disinfects and quickly cleans floors of dirt. If necessary, detergent can be added to the device. For this purpose, a 0.2 liter container is built into it.

When cleaning laminate floors, it is preferable to choose a steam mop that produces dry steam rather than wet steam.

How to properly clean?

A steam mop can do more than just clean floors from dust and dirt. Its undoubted advantage is the disinfection of the premises. Hot steam kills most germs and bacteria. However, to prevent the laminate from deteriorating during cleaning, you should follow 5 important rules:

1. It is allowed to carry out wet cleaning no more than once every 3 days.
2. If there is large debris and dirt on the floor, it must be vacuumed first (a steam mop does not replace a vacuum cleaner).
3. Complex stains and stains require the use of special detergents.
4. When using each new detergent, it is important to make sure that it does not spoil the laminated surface (does not contain abrasive particles, does not have a high alkaline or acidic environment).
5. If, after washing the floor with a steam mop, wet stains remain, the laminate should be immediately wiped dry with a napkin or rag.

If, after cleaning, individual boards still become deformed and swollen, there is no need to be sad or panic. In most cases, the problem can be solved simply - you need to remove the baseboard, open the windows and let the laminate dry with natural air circulation.

Undoubtedly, a steam mop will make cleaning the floor covering easier, making it better and more convenient. This household appliance has a built-in water tank, which allows you to forget about buckets and basins. Reviews advise choosing a device of medium size and weight, with a long cord and a steam generator that is removable. This will allow you to wash not only the laminate, but also vertical surfaces: windows, bathroom tiles, upholstered furniture and much more.