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How to Clean Laminate Flooring in Manchester Homes – Expert Guide by Ever After Flooring

By 30 December 2025Resources5 min read

Introduction: Keeping Laminate Flooring Looking New in Manchester

Laminate flooring is one of the most popular choices in Manchester homes — stylish, affordable, and durable. But to keep it looking its best, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential, especially in a city where wet weather, grit, and foot traffic are part of everyday life.

At Ever After Flooring, Manchester’s trusted carpet and flooring specialists, we’re often asked:
“What’s the best way to clean laminate flooring without damaging it?”

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to clean laminate flooring the right way, what products to use, what to avoid, and how Manchester homeowners can extend the life of their floors.

Why Laminate Flooring Needs Special Care

Laminate flooring is tough — but it’s not waterproof like LVT. Each plank has a protective wear layer, but excess moisture or harsh cleaning products can cause:

  • Swelling at the joints

  • Dull or streaky finishes

  • Long-term damage

That’s why using the correct cleaning method is crucial, especially in busy Manchester households.

Daily & Weekly Cleaning: The Best Routine for Laminate Floors

Step 1: Sweep or Vacuum Regularly

Manchester streets mean dirt, grit, and moisture get tracked indoors easily.

  • Use a soft broom or a vacuum with a hard-floor setting

  • Avoid rotating brushes (they can scratch the surface)

  • Focus on entrances, hallways, and high-traffic areas

Step 2: Damp Mop – Not Wet

This is the most important rule of laminate floor cleaning.

  • Use a microfibre mop

  • Lightly dampen it with warm water

  • Mop in the direction of the planks

  • Never leave standing water

Do NOT soak the floor
Do NOT use steam mops

Expert tip from Ever After Flooring:
Steam cleaners are one of the biggest causes of laminate floor damage we see in Manchester homes.

Best Cleaning Products for Laminate Flooring

Recommended Options

  • PH-neutral laminate floor cleaner

  • Diluted vinegar solution (small amount only)

  • Manufacturer-approved laminate cleaners

Products to Avoid

  • Bleach or ammonia

  • Wax or polish

  • Abrasive powders

  • Steam cleaners

Using the wrong products can remove the protective layer and void warranties.

How to Remove Common Stains from Laminate Flooring

Manchester households deal with everything from muddy footprints to coffee spills. Here’s how to handle them safely:

Coffee, Tea & Food Spills

  • Wipe immediately with a damp cloth

  • Dry thoroughly

Pet Marks & Mud

  • Allow mud to dry, then sweep

  • Use a damp microfibre mop

Ink or Marker

  • Dab gently with a cloth and a small amount of rubbing alcohol

  • Test in a hidden area first

Deep Cleaning Laminate Flooring (Monthly or Seasonal)

For a deeper clean:

  1. Vacuum thoroughly

  2. Use a laminate-specific cleaner

  3. Mop lightly in sections

  4. Dry with a clean cloth if needed

This is ideal after winter months in Manchester when floors collect extra moisture and dirt.

How to Protect Laminate Flooring Long-Term

To keep your laminate flooring looking new for years:

  • Use doormats at entrances

  • Add felt pads under furniture

  • Avoid dragging furniture

  • Clean spills immediately

  • Keep humidity levels stable

Manchester Tip: Older homes in Tameside and surrounding areas can have fluctuating humidity — good ventilation helps prevent laminate expansion.

Common Laminate Flooring Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Many Manchester homeowners accidentally damage their floors by:

  • Using too much water
  • Steam cleaning
  • Using tile or wood polish
  • Ignoring grit and dirt build-up

If your laminate floor already looks dull or damaged, our team at Ever After Flooring can assess whether repair or replacement is the best option.

Laminate Flooring vs LVT: Which Is Easier to Clean?

While laminate is easy to maintain, LVT flooring is fully waterproof and even more forgiving.

Many Manchester homeowners mix both for the perfect balance — and we can help match styles seamlessly.

Why Manchester Homeowners Trust Ever After Flooring

  • Local flooring experts based in Tameside
  • Serving Manchester, Stockport, Hyde, Denton & beyond
  • Huge range of laminate, LVT, vinyl & carpets
  • Professional fitting & honest advice

Whether you need cleaning advice or are ready to upgrade your flooring, we’re here to help.

Thinking of Replacing or Upgrading Your Laminate Flooring?

If your laminate flooring is worn, damaged, or difficult to maintain, it may be time for an upgrade.

Visit Ever After Flooring, your trusted Manchester flooring shop
Call us for expert advice and a free quote

We’ll help you choose flooring that suits your lifestyle — and show you how to keep it looking perfect.

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