Keeping your floors clean is important, but using the wrong cleaning method can cause unnecessary wear or even permanent damage. Carpet, hardwood, laminate, and luxury vinyl all have different care requirements.
Here’s a simple guide to cleaning your floors safely and effectively.
Carpet
Regular vacuuming is the best way to remove dirt, dust, and grit before they become embedded in carpet fibers.
For spills: Blot—don’t rub—with a clean, absorbent cloth, then use a carpet-approved spot cleaner.
Avoid: Excessive moisture, aggressive scrubbing, and cleaning products that aren’t recommended for your carpet.
Wisconsin tip: During winter, vacuum regularly and address salt and de-icing residue promptly to help prevent it from becoming embedded in the fibers.
Hardwood
Hardwood floors should be kept relatively dry. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove grit that can scratch the finish.
For deeper cleaning, use a hardwood-approved cleaner and a damp, not soaking wet, mop. Wipe up spills promptly.
Avoid: Excess water, abrasive cleaners, and steam cleaning unless specifically approved by the manufacturer.
Laminate
Laminate is easy to maintain but generally doesn’t respond well to excessive moisture.
Sweep or vacuum regularly and use a laminate-approved cleaner with a microfiber mop or cleaning method recommended by the manufacturer.
Avoid: Soaking the floor, excessive water, abrasive scrubbers, and steam cleaning unless approved for your specific product.
LVP and LVT
Luxury vinyl plank and tile are popular for their durability and easy maintenance. Regular sweeping or vacuuming followed by damp mopping is usually all that’s needed.
Use cleaning products recommended for your specific flooring and wipe up spills promptly.
Avoid: Abrasive cleaners, steel wool, wax or polish unless approved, and excessive heat or steam.
Waterproof Vinyl
Waterproof vinyl is particularly practical for busy Wisconsin households because it handles everyday spills and moisture well. However, waterproof doesn’t mean maintenance-free.
Sweep or vacuum regularly, damp mop as needed, and use furniture pads and entry mats to help protect the surface.
Remember that waterproof flooring protects the flooring product itself—it doesn’t eliminate the importance of proper installation or attention to the subfloor.
5 Simple Ways to Protect Any Floor
- Vacuum or sweep regularly to remove dirt and grit.
- Clean spills promptly before they stain or seep into seams.
- Use the right cleaner for your specific flooring.
- Don’t overuse water, especially on hardwood and moisture-sensitive flooring.
- Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions before trying a new cleaning product or method.
The Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to floor cleaning. The method that’s perfect for one flooring type may damage another.
With regular maintenance and the right cleaning products, you can help your floors look their best and last longer.
Not sure how to care for your current flooring—or looking for a lower-maintenance option? Badger State Flooring can help. We’re proud to serve homeowners throughout Green Bay, the Fox Valley, and surrounding Northeast Wisconsin communities.
Stop by our showroom or contact us with your flooring questions—we’re happy to help you find the right flooring for your home and lifestyle.