Laminates are the most popular choice for homeowners who want to add style and durability to their interiors by giving the exact feel of expensive tiles, marble, and granite materials. Laminates are an affordable and low-maintenance option for flooring, furniture, and countertops. However, being resistant to heavy-duty scratches, abrasion, or dust, just like any other material, laminates also require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and durability.
Maintaining and caring for your laminates is as crucial as selecting the correct interior themes or laminate designs for your spaces. The beauty of a well-designed space includes proper planning, personalization & timely aftercare to maintain its longevity & hygiene. Activities like regular cleaning & dusting of surfaces with frequent contact, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbers, using a cutting board, wiping off spills immediately, avoiding direct or prolonged exposure to sunlight, and using furniture sliders can help keep your laminates in top condition for years and enjoy their beauty and functionality for a long time.
Here are the tips elaborated for a better understanding of maintenance and care of your laminates to keep them looking new and shiny for more years
1. Use a soft cloth for regular wiping and dusting
Regular wiping and dusting of the surfaces are essential to maintain the daily hygiene of your laminates especially if they are surfaces with high and continuous physical contact. Use a soft cloth to wipe the laminate surface, removing any dirt or dust. This will prevent the buildup of grime and keep your laminates looking clean and fresh.
2. Dampen the cloth with water
For more thorough cleaning, you can dampen the cloth with water and wring out the excess. This will ensure that the surface is cleaned more thoroughly, removing any stubborn stains or marks. Do not soak the cloth or use too much water. However, Laminates are water resistant it is still advisable to eliminate their contact with excess water as this can damage the laminates.
3. Restrict using harsh chemicals
When cleaning your laminates, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the upper coating and reduce its lifespan. Instead, use mild detergents or cleaning solutions that are specifically designed for laminates. One of the natural alternatives can be using white vinegar with normal water. If you are unsure about which cleaning products to use, consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Use a cutting board
If you have laminate kitchen countertops, it is important to use a cutting board while using sharp objects like knives. This will prevent any scratches or damage to the surface, which can be costly to repair.
5. Avoid abrasive scrubbers
While cleaning your laminates, it is important to remember not to intensely scrub or use abrasive scrubbers on the surface. This can cause scratches, and spoil the design or texture of the laminates, eventually damaging it. Instead, use a soft microfibre cloth or sponge to gently clean the surface.
6. Wipe off spills immediately
To prevent unwanted stains and harm to the laminates make sure to immediately wipe off any spills or liquids on the surfaces, and not let them penetrate as it may deteriorate the durability of the laminates because of the moisture.
7. Avoid direct or prolonged exposure to sunlight
Laminates tend to fade or change their color over time, especially when exposed to direct or prolonged sunlight. It is important to avoid exposing your laminates to sunlight or use window treatments like blinds or curtains to reduce the exposure.
8. Use furniture sliders
Do not drag furniture while moving or shifting, as this can cause damage to your laminates. Instead, use heavy furniture sliders to move heavy objects like sofas, beds, or cabinets. Use glue felt pads on the legs of the furniture or chairs to avoid any scratches when objects are moved. Although purchasing high-quality laminates from the Best Laminate Manufacturers in India can provide some level of durability, it is still advisable to practice basic care to maintain its functionality and longevity. These guidelines and tips are a good starting point, but keep in mind that there may be additional care instructions depending on the specific variety of laminates being used.
