Do you want to achieve impeccably clean and shiny laminate floors? Today we will dive into the wonderful world of steam cleaning and learn how it can revolutionize your cleaning. Say goodbye to tiring scrubbing and welcome hassle-free, hygienic floors with our expert tips and recommendations.
Can you use steam on a laminate floor?
Steam cleaning has been gaining popularity among consumers over the past decade. Steam mops have also become a frequently discussed tool. However, people have a misconception thinking that using a steam mop is not safe for cleaning laminate floors. It’s time to change that belief!
To ensure your laminate or vinyl floor is not damaged during its cleaning, make sure the laminate floor is not already damaged or worn out.
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To ensure that the temperature is not too high for your laminate floor, always use a microfiber pad between the heat source and the floor. Also, don’t spend too much time moving the steam mop back and forth, do it with a quick gliding motion, just like a regular mop.
How a steam mop works
Firstly, it’s important to understand the basic principles of the cleaning method. Steam cleaners heat water to boiling point, removing most bacteria and dirt from surfaces. In other words, pour water into small containers and cool it to a temperature of 220 degrees Fahrenheit, and the water will expand by 1600 times. The produced steam contains 3 – 5% moisture, but excess water remains in a steam state as long as the source is steady.
What is the best steam mop for laminate floors?
More and more steam mops are appearing on the market, but not all are worth buying. If you’ve never tried steam cleaning before, you’re likely to start with a cheaper steam cleaner and end up disappointed because all you’ll see is steam being emitted, not actual cleaning of laminate floors.
Fortador Volt Mini
Fortador steam cleaners have been leading the market for commercial steam cleaners for many years, but since then they have created a model for home users. Fortador Volt Mini is the most powerful steam cleaning tool that will also serve as a steam mop for you and your family.
This steam cleaner was designed to be portable, weighing only 7.5 kg, which makes it easy to transport to any work location. Volt MINI heats up quickly, producing steam in just five minutes. Unlike other small commercial portable steam cleaners, it operates under high pressure and temperatures, delivering steam at a pressure of 101.5 psi and a maximum temperature of 170 degrees Celsius. The boiler is made of durable AISI 304 stainless steel, ensuring reliable durability.
In addition to excellent performance, Volt MINI comes with many accessories and attachments, including a steam mop, which makes quick and easy cleaning possible. The set includes a 4.5-meter hose, which is 1.5 meters longer than most other commercial steam cleaners. With the long power cable, you can easily reach tight places where larger steam cleaners cannot access.
If you’re using a steam mop on laminate floors, consider:
Excessive moisture can warp or damage laminate if the steam mop generates too much moisture or is used for too long in one place.
Laminate floors can crack or deform if exposed to high temperatures from a steam mop.
Steam cleaning may void the manufacturer’s warranty on laminate floors.
Laminate floors can easily scratch or get damaged, so be careful, using appropriate mop pads or attachments.
Steam mops may not effectively remove tough stains or large accumulations of dirt on laminate floors, requiring alternative cleaning methods.
To avoid damages, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, first test on a small area, and if necessary, consider alternative cleaning methods.
Here are some frequently asked questions about using steam mops.
How to use a steam mop on waterproof laminate floors?
To effectively and safely clean laminate floors, start by vacuuming them in hard floor mode. Then switch to the lowest steam setting on your cleaning device, but avoid directly applying steam to the floors. Instead, apply the steam to a microfiber pad and use it as a wet mop to wipe the floor in the direction of the grain. Remember to keep the mop moving for the best results.
What to use to clean laminate floors?
You can use special materials to clean laminate floors. If you don’t have them on hand, use an empty glass cup with clean dish soap and mix it with a cup of water. Adding one teaspoon of shampoo to the water works just as well.
Is it safe to use a steam mop on laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring is quite sensitive to heat and moisture. The basic rule for steam cleaning a laminate floor is to test a small area and check for any changes on the laminate floor.
If everything is fine, make sure you have microfiber pads between the heat source and the floor and don’t leave the steam mop in one place for too long.
Why is a steam mop better than a regular mop?
When you clean your floors with regular water, you’re moving loose dirt and dust on the floors. However, because steam generates heat, it is very effective at removing most germs from floors that may not even be visible to the naked eye.
Moreover, steam is really very gentle on your hard surfaces when used correctly.
When not to use a steam mop?
It is not recommended to use a steam mop on painted surfaces, even if they are sealed. The high temperature of the steam can create bubbles under the paint, leading to peeling. It is best to avoid using a steam mop on any painted floors.
