Is It Safe to Use a Steam Mop to Clean Laminate?
Opinions often differ. Some argue that it is possible to use the steam mop, others categorically declare that it is not. Let’s understand what household appliances to use to clean the room. Keep reading this article.
Peculiarities of laminate
Laminate is a building material based on very durable fibreboards. A stabilizing layer is attached to them from below to protect against deformation, and polymers are applied on top to prevent abrasion and the appearance of dents. There are different types of laminate flooring. The household type is of 21-23 classes and it is less durable and not resistant to water and damage than the commercial type which is of 32-33 classes.
Hot water with steam is considered especially harmful to the laminate. In this form, moisture penetrates into the boards much faster, which can lead to swelling and deformation of the flooring. Hence, it would be possible to conclude that it is impossible to use a steam mop, if not for one “but” – the quality protection provided by some manufacturers against moisture penetration and reliably sealed seams during the flooring.
Wash or not to wash?
After analysing all the features of the laminate flooring, we can draw the following conclusion: it is possible to wash the laminate with a steam mop, but only a certain one – 32 classes and above, necessarily moisture resistant and sealed.
What steam mop to use?
The correct choice of household appliances is the key to high-quality, fast, and safe cleaning of laminated flooring. Consider the manufacturer and the functions of a steam mop. A well-known brand and automatic steam regulation depending on the type of coating will save you from unpleasant surprises.
How to clean with the steam mop?
A steam mop can not only clean dust and dirt from floors. Its undoubted advantage is the disinfection of the premises. Hot steam kills most germs and bacteria. However, so that the laminate does not deteriorate during cleaning, you should adhere to these important rules.
It is allowed to carry out wet cleaning no more than 1 time in 3 days. If there is coarse debris and dirt on the floor, it must be vacuumed first.
Difficult stains and streaks require the use of special detergents. When using each new detergent, it is important to make sure that it does not damage the laminated surface.
If wet stains remain after mopping the floor with a steam mop, wipe the laminate immediately with a napkin or rag. In the case when, after cleaning, individual boards are nevertheless deformed and swollen, you should not grieve and panic. In most cases, the problem is solved simply – you need to remove the baseboard, open the windows and let the laminate dry with natural air circulation.
Undoubtedly, the steam mop will make the flooring easier to clean, making it better and more convenient. This household appliance has a built-in water tank so you can forget about buckets and basins. Choose a device of medium size and weight, with a long cord and a steam generator that can be removed. This will allow you to clean not only the laminate but also vertical surfaces: windows, bathroom tiles, upholstered furniture, and much more.
To find the variety of steam mops to use during the cleaning visit the Shark website.
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