Clean floors help a home feel cozy and welcoming, but knowing how to care for each type of flooring isn't always simple. As your friendly flooring team, we're here to help with clear answers to common cleaning questions, from everyday cleaning routines to care tips by floor type for vinyl, laminate, hardwood, tile, and carpet. Read on to explore our floor cleaning and maintenance FAQ.
There are as many methods for cleaning your floors as there are types of flooring to choose from. What works great on one type of floor could ruin another, so it's critically important to check the manufacturer's recommendations before you get started scrubbing. Depending on whether your floors are made from hardwood, luxury vinyl, ceramic tile, linoleum, wall-to-wall carpeting, or other materials, recommended cleaning methods might include vacuuming, sweeping, using a wet or dry mop, using steam, avoiding steam, or (in smaller spaces) simply hand-cleaning with paper towels or microfiber wipes.
It's difficult to provide a one-size-fits-all answer to this question, since different floors have different cleaning requirements. For example, what's appropriate for wood or carpet might be wrong for tile or stone. That said, it's generally a good idea to start by removing loose crumbs and debris (such as vacuuming or sweeping), then follow up by wiping or scrubbing to remove any remaining stains. As always, we recommend referring to the manufacturer's guidelines, which will provide you with step-by-step care instructions.
Most of us know our way around a broom, a mop, and a vacuum. But when it comes to making floors really shine, you may hear about two other methods: buffing and burnishing. Both aim to make your floors look newer and glossier, but they work a little differently. Buffing cleans and polishes at the same time and can be done at lower speeds. Burnishing only polishes, and it takes a powerful, high-speed machine to get the job done. Since both are bigger projects than your everyday cleaning, it’s a good idea to talk with a pro before you get started. We’re always here to point you in the right direction.
Homeowners have thousands of choices when shopping for floor cleaning machines. From basic vacuums and steam cleaners, to specialized industrial equipment like high-speed buffers and rotary floor scrubbers, there is no shortage of options to choose from. The best choice for you depends on what sort of flooring you have (or intend to install). While high-end cleaning machines can cost thousands of dollars, most homeowners do not need fancy or expensive equipment to achieve good results. Unless your floors are extensively soiled, simple maintenance with a combination of mopping and vacuuming is likely sufficient. Of course, the manufacturer's recommendations are always the most reliable source for care and cleaning advice.
Get the full breakdown in our guide to waterproof vs. water-resistant flooring.
Find the best fit for your home in our guide to the most durable flooring types.
The best thing to clean floors with is a cleaner made for your floor type, paired with a soft microfiber mop. For most hard surfaces, a pH-neutral cleaner mixed with warm water works well and won't leave a sticky film behind. A few simple habits make a big difference:
Not sure what's safe for your floors? Your local flooring team is always happy to point you to the right products.
To maintain vinyl flooring, sweep or vacuum often and clean with a damp mop and a vinyl-safe cleaner. Vinyl is one of the easiest floors to care for, and a simple routine keeps it looking fresh:
Thinking about a refresh? Explore vinyl flooring to find a style that fits your home.
To maintain laminate flooring, keep it free of grit with regular sweeping and clean it with a lightly damp mop and a laminate-safe cleaner. Too much water can get into the seams, so less is more:
Ready to see what's new? Explore laminate flooring and find a look your whole family will love.
To maintain hardwood floors, dust mop or vacuum regularly, clean with a hardwood-specific cleaner, and keep water to a minimum. Wood is natural, so a little extra care helps it last for generations:
When the finish starts to look worn, a professional screen and recoat can bring back its shine. Explore hardwood flooring for more ideas.
To clean tile floors, sweep or vacuum first, then mop with warm water and a pH-neutral tile cleaner. Tile is tough, but the grout lines need a little attention too:
Sealing cement grout every year or so helps it resist stains longer. Explore tile flooring to see the latest looks.
To maintain carpet, vacuum often, treat spills right away, and schedule a professional deep cleaning about every 12 to 18 months. A few easy habits keep carpet soft and fresh:
Looking for something cozy underfoot? Explore carpet in colors and textures for every room.
