Wondering how to clean laminate flooring and keep it looking as great as it did upon installation? Even though your laminate wood floors may look as good as hardwood floors, polishing planks is not exactly the same as when you clean laminate flooring.Laminate planks need special care when dealing with stains, scuffs, or other damage. To avoid pricey repairs and replacements, it’s critical to keep up with maintenance—especially in high-traffic areas.Don’t worry, keeping your floors looking good doesn’t take a lot of time, work, or elbow grease. “Mop every two months,” says Marco Carmo, owner of Maid to Shine and member of the Thumbtack Pro Advisory Board. “But a deep cleaning should be added to the cleaning schedule. I usually recommend a deep clean every six to nine months.”Since laminate isn’t solid wood, you can’t refinish it, so the goal is always to treat the stain or scuff gently and effectively without wearing down the protective top layer, says Myles Robinson, home expert and founder of UK Composite Doors in Wakefield, England. Follow our step-by-step method on how to clean laminate floors, remove stubborn stains and pet hair, and banish scuffs once and for all.Learn the best ways to clean laminate floorsHow do laminate floors differ from wood floors?Laminate floors are synthetic alternative to wood floors. Photo: Seksan Mongkhonkhamsao/Getty ImagesLaminate floors are synthetic products that mimic the look of wood floors, which are made from natural timber. Generally, laminate floors are more cost-effective and popular choices for those who want the aesthetic of hardwood floors without the cost.Laminate flooring is made from three layers:The core layer: This layer supports foot traffic or any other weight that is applied to the flooring by homeowners. It can be made from high-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which are both engineered wood made from wood fibers. Some low-quality laminate floors could have a core layer that is made from cardboard, which could lead to uneven floors.The decor layer: This layer creates laminate flooring’s woodlike appearance. It is placed on top of the core layer and is usually made from paper printed with a wood pattern.The wear layer: This top coating provides protection and scratch resistance. On higher quality laminate, this layer may be textured to give the appearance and feel of a wood grain.How to clean laminate floorsBefore you get cleaning, consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your floors. The brand may have specific recommendations based on the materials used. Most companies have detailed product guides and instructions on how to clean laminate floors on their websites. Read carefully, as using harsh or abrasive cleaning products can null the warranty.Step 2: Learn the right cleaning agentWhat you use to clean your laminate floors depends on the state of your floors. For routine upkeep, a microfiber dry mop can do the trick. (We recommend the Casabella baseboard cleaning mop because the microfiber traps dirt and because it has an edge, tackling annoying baseboard dust.)For routine upkeepFor stubborn stains or deep cleansProducts to avoid on laminate floorsMicrofiber dry mopAll-purpose, pH-neutral cleaning spray and cleaning cloths, or dish soap and warm water-Bleach and ammonia-based cleaners, and steam cleanersIf you have a stubborn stain, you might need more arsenal like an all-purpose cleaning spray and cleaning cloths. You want to avoid bleach or ammonia-based cleaners because the harsh chemicals can strip the protective layer. “Products that are safe to use are pH-neutral floor cleaners, like Bona or Zep, but you can also DIY a cleaner by mixing a few drops of dish soap in warm water,” Carmo says. Another thing you want to skip is a steam cleaner. “The heat and moisture can cause the laminate to warp or buckle,” he adds.Step 3: Start by removing the loose dirt and dustDust and debris loves to hide in the corners of the room, and should be removed at least once a week. A microfiber mop, broom, or vacuum should do the trick. For a particularly stress-free clean, consider a robot vacuum.Mop every two months or so. Photo: energyy/Getty ImagesStep 4: Spot treat stainsThe best cleaning method for tough stains like candle wax or ink is usually a spot treatment. For things like dried-on chewing gum or candle wax, apply a bag of ice to the spot and wait for it to harden. Then remove it with a plastic knife, scraper, or credit cards. Stains from paint, ink, nail polish, and crayons can usually be removed with rubbing alcohol.Step 5: Go over with a wet mopDon’t douse your laminate floors with water, but you can use a damp microfiber mop. “It’s gentle and won’t leave excess water behind, which can damage the laminate over time,” Carmo says.