Laminate floors are a favourite in many homes for their durability, affordability and style. But over time, even the best laminate can lose its lustre. If you’re wondering how to make laminate floors shine and keep them looking their best, you’re in the right place! This guide from RenovateDream.com will walk you through everything you need to know, from why laminate floors get dull to the best tools, cleaning solutions and maintenance tips.
Why Laminate Floors Lose Their Shine
Laminate flooring is engineered for strength and beauty, but daily life can take its toll. Here are the main reasons your laminate might look dull:
- Accumulated Dirt and Dust: Grit and debris can scratch the floor’s surface, making it look cloudy.
- Residue from Cleaning Products: Using the wrong cleaners can leave a film that dulls the finish.
- Excess Moisture: Too much water can seep into seams, causing swelling and a lacklustre look.
- Wear and Tear: High-traffic areas naturally lose shine faster due to constant foot traffic and friction.
Understanding these causes is the first step to restoring and preserving that fresh-from-the-box shine.
Tools You’ll Need to Polish
Before you start, gather the right tools. Using gentle laminate-friendly equipment is crucial to protect your floors:
- Soft-bristle broom or vacuum (with a hard floor setting)
- Microfiber mop or cloth
- Bucket for mixing cleaning solutions
- Spray bottle (for even application)
- Laminate floor cleaner or a homemade solution
- Dry, clean towels
- Optional: Laminate floor polish or reviver (specifically designed for laminate)
Avoid abrasive pads, steam mops or any tool that could scratch or soak your floors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Them Shine Again
Ready to bring back that beautiful glow? Follow these steps for the best results:
1. Sweep or Vacuum Thoroughly
Remove all dust, dirt and debris. Even tiny particles can scratch laminate and dull its shine. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hard floor attachment.
2. Mop with a Damp (Not Wet) Microfiber Mop
Mix your cleaning solution (see below for options). Lightly dampen your mop—never soak it. Excess water can damage laminate. Mop the floor, working in small sections, and dry each area with a towel as you go.
3. Apply Laminate Floor Cleaner or Polish
If your floor is still dull, use a laminate floor cleaner or a polish specifically designed for laminate. Apply a thin, even layer with a microfiber cloth or mop. Let it dry as per the product instructions.
4. Buff for Extra Shine
Once dry, buff the floor gently with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. This will remove any streaks and enhance the shine.
5. Let Floors Dry Completely
Let your floors air dry before walking on them to prevent new streaks or footprints.
Homemade vs Commercial Solutions
You have two main options for cleaning and shining laminate floors: homemade or commercial products. Here’s how they compare:
| Solution Type | Pros | Cons | Best Use |
| Homemade (e.g., vinegar & water) | Cheap, eco-friendly, safe for kids/pets | May require more effort, not for tough stains | Regular cleaning, light shine |
| Commercial Cleaners/Polishes | Convenient, powerful, and designed for laminate | More expensive, may contain chemicals | Heavy-duty cleaning, restoring shine |
Popular Homemade Solution:
- Mix 1 part white vinegar with 10 parts water for a gentle, streak-free clean.
- For extra cleaning, add a splash of rubbing alcohol (equal parts water, vinegar, and alcohol).
Note: Avoid wax, oil-based products, or cleaners made for hardwood, as these can create buildup and dull laminate floors over time.
Mistakes to Avoid
To keep your laminate looking good:
- Don’t use too much water: Laminate is water sensitive. Use a damp, not wet, mop.
- Harsh or abrasive cleaners: Ammonia, bleach or abrasive pads can scratch or dull the finish.
- Wax or oil-based products: These can create a sticky buildup and make floors look duller.
- Not cleaning regularly: Dirt and grit left on the floor will scratch and cloud the surface over time.
- Using too much force: Scrubbing hard can damage the top layer. Be gentle, especially with tough spots.
How to Keep it Shiny
Once your floors are clean, keep them that way with these tips:
- Sweep or vacuum at least once a week to prevent scratches from dirt and grit.
- Use mats or rugs at entryways and high-traffic areas to catch debris before it hits your floor.
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent moisture damage.
- Stick to laminate-specific cleaners and avoid “all-purpose” products unless labelled safe for laminate.
- Buff floors regularly with a dry microfiber cloth to maintain shine.
- Don’t drag furniture; use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
Conclusion of Make Laminate Floors Shine
Making laminate floors shine isn’t hard but it does require the right approach. Regular gentle cleaning with the right products will keep your floors looking good for years. Remember: avoid too much water, harsh chemicals and abrasive tools. Stick to a simple routine, use mats to protect high traffic areas and buff occasionally for that extra sparkle.
With these tips from Renovate Dream, your laminate floors will look as good as the day they were installed, no matter how busy your home gets. Happy cleaning!
