Hardwood Floors vs. Laminate Floors. Who Wins?
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Can we agree that ensuring a clean and safe environment in your home is paramount? So when it comes to your floors, whether adorned with laminate or hardwood, selecting the right Earth-safe cleaners is essential. Laminate surfaces demand gentle solutions that preserve their luster while being non-toxic. While hardwood floors need specialized formulas that maintain their integrity while posing no harm. Prioritizing the correct cleaner ensures not only a spotless home but also the well-being of everyone who enters. Discovering the ideal cleaning arsenal tailored to your flooring type guarantees a harmonious coexistence between a pristine home and your cherished guests.
So cmon y’all, let's get FLOORED cue laugh track. When it comes to keeping those laminate and hardwood floors looking good, it's all about the right cleaners. Say bye-bye to harsh chemicals, we're keepin' it real and green. For our DIY-leaning friends, laminate floors love with a mix of vinegar and water – no streaks, all shine. And for hardwood? A lil' olive oil and lemon juice will make cleaning your hardwood easy. Get the recipe. But what’s the difference between them?
Difference between Hardwood and Laminate Wood Floors:
Material Composition: Hardwood floors are made from real wood throughout the entire plank, typically cut from trees like oak, maple, or walnut. Laminate wood floors, on the other hand, consist of a fiberboard core with a printed image of wood grain on the surface, covered with a protective layer.
Durability: Hardwood floors are generally more durable and long-lasting compared to laminate floors. Hardwood can be refinished multiple times, while laminate flooring cannot be sanded or refinished.
Appearance: Hardwood floors offer a natural and authentic look with unique wood grain patterns, as each plank is unique. Laminate floors mimic the appearance of hardwood but lack the natural variations.
Maintenance: Hardwood floors require more maintenance, such as regular sweeping, vacuuming, and occasional refinishing, to keep them in good condition. Laminate floors are easier to maintain and require less effort to clean. For a good hardwood vacuum that won’t break the bank, I’m a fan of the Bissell Featherweight. Really easy on the back (no, really).
Natural Cleaning for Hardwood Floors:
Sweep or Vacuum: Start by removing loose dirt, dust, and debris from the floor using a broom with soft bristles or a vacuum cleaner on a hardwood setting.
Pet-Safe Cleaning Solution: Mix equal parts of Aunt Fannie’s Hardwood Cleaner and warm water in a bucket. Dip a mop or a soft cloth into the solution, wring it out well, and damp mop the hardwood floor. Avoid excess moisture, as standing water can damage the wood.
Dry Mopping: After mopping, go over the floor with a dry mop or a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture.
Polish (Optional): If desired, you can apply a natural wood floor polish to restore shine. Choose a polish specifically formulated for hardwood floors and follow the instructions provided.
Natural Cleaning for Laminate Wood Floors:
Dry Cleaning: Begin by using a soft-bristle broom or a dry microfiber mop to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris from the laminate floor.
Homemade Cleaning Solution: Mix equal parts of warm water and distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the solution onto a microfiber mop or cloth, then wipe the laminate floor gently. Avoid using excessive moisture.
Drying: Once you've cleaned the floor, use a dry microfiber mop or cloth to remove any remaining moisture from the surface.
Spot Cleaning: For any stubborn stains or spills, apply a small amount of your favorite laminate cleaner (or use our team’s fave) or rubbing alcohol to a soft cloth and gently rub the affected area. Wipe clean with a damp cloth afterward.
Our clean team says it’s a matter of preference. Hardwood may last longer but laminate saves you money. Which would you lean to if you were building your perfect home? Remember to check the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific type of hardwood or laminate floor, as certain finishes or treatments may require specific cleaning methods or products.
Saturday Morning Clean is located in Atlanta, GA and services Gwinnett County, Fulton County, Fayette County and Clayton counties. We care about the upkeep and cleanliness of your floors. Contact us if you need a cleaning solution today!
