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Laminate Flooring Overview
Laminate flooring is a popular flooring choice for many homes today. It consists of a photographic applique layer under a clear protective layer. The top layer contains the design, usually replicating stone, tile, or wood. Underneath is a fiberboard core made from high-density fiberboard (HDF). Laminate flooring is durable, affordable, and easy to install. However, it does require some special care when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. Using the right vacuum cleaner can help keep your laminate floors looking beautiful for years to come.
Key Factors to Consider
When shopping for a vacuum for laminate floors, there are a few key factors to consider:
– Suction power – Strong suction is needed to pick up debris, but too much can damage laminate. Look for adjustable power.
– Brushrolls – Spinning brushrolls can scratch laminate floors, so look for vacuums with brushroll shutoff.
– Wheels – Hard wheels or tracks can dent laminate. Look for soft rubber wheels.
– Attachments – A flat head tool is useful for reaching corners and baseboards.
– Weight – Heavy vacuums can cause dents. Look for lighter weight models.
– Filtration – A good filtration system will retain dust and allergens. HEPA filtration is ideal.
Best Vacuums for Laminate Floors
Based on the above criteria, here are 5 of the top-rated vacuums to use on laminate floors:
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is a great choice for laminate floors. Key features include:
– Lift-Away Canister – The canister detaches to make a portable vacuum for furniture, stairs, and more.
– Adjustable Suction – Suction power can be decreased to prevent damage to delicate floors.
– Large Wheels – Gentle on floors and easily roll over transitions.
– Brushroll Shutoff – Turn off the brushroll with the flick of a switch to prevent floor scratches.
– HEPA Filtration – Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
– Detachable Tools – Crevice tool, dusting brush, and flat head tool provide versatility.
With adjustable suction and easy maneuverability, the Shark Navigator protects laminate floors while still picking up dirt and debris. The lift-away feature makes cleaning stairs, upholstery, and ceilings a breeze.
2. Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum
The Bissell Featherweight stick vacuum is an ultra-lightweight, bagless vacuum perfect for laminate floors. Key features include:
– Very Lightweight – Weighs just 3 pounds for easy maneuvering.
– Multi-Surface Floors – Safe for hard floors and area rugs.
– Suction Channel Technology – Concentrates suction power where you need it.
– Washable Filter – Saves money on replacement filters.
– Cord Rewind – Retractable 15-foot power cord for quick clean ups.
– Crevice Tool – Built-in crevice tool for tight spaces and edges.
The combination of lightweight design and suction channel technology makes the Bissell Featherweight ideal for quick cleanups on laminate floors. The washable filter helps maintain strong suction. Easy to carry and store away. Great for laminate flooring in small homes or apartments.
3. Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Stick Vacuum
The Dyson V8 Absolute cordless stick vacuum offers maximum convenience for cleaning laminate floors. Key advantages include:
– Cordless Operation – Freely move around furniture and restrictions. Up to 40 minutes run time per charge.
– Soft Roller Cleaner Head – Safely cleans laminate floors with carbon fiber filaments.
– Max Power Mode – When needed, boosts suction power for stuck on debris.
– Whole-Machine HEPA Filtration – Traps allergens and expels cleaner air.
– Easy to Empty – Hygienically empties dust and debris with the push of a button.
– Multiple Attachments – Comes with crevice tool, soft brush, and more.
With no cords to unravel, the Dyson V8 offers incredible maneuverability for laminate flooring. The soft roller head provides powerful suction without being harsh on floors. It’s bagless, so there are no replacement bags or filters to buy.
4. Miele Compact C1 Pure Suction Canister Vacuum
The Miele Compact C1 is a lightweight, bagged canister vacuum ideal for laminate floors. Key features:
– 1,200-Watt Vortex Motor – Provides optimal airflow and strong, consistent suction power.
– Gentle Parquet Twister Floorhead – Safely cleans laminate with a soft brush and rubber wheels.
– Automatic Floor Height Adjustment – Head automatically adjusts to the proper cleaning height.
– Telescoping Stainless Steel Wands – Makes maneuvering smooth and easy.
– AirClean Filter Bags – Traps microscopic particles while releasing clean air.
– Variety of Attachments – Upholstery tool, crevice nozzle and dusting brush.
Weighing only 12 pounds, the Miele Compact C1 glides across floors with little effort. The Parquet Twister floorhead provides a thorough clean for laminate while being gentle. Miele vacuums are renowned for durability, so this model will provide years of service.
5. iRobot Roomba 675 Wi-Fi Connected Robot Vacuum
For hands-free cleaning of laminate flooring, consider the iRobot Roomba 675 robot vacuum. Key features include:
– Wi-Fi Connectivity – Schedule and monitor cleaning from anywhere with the app. Voice control compatible.
– 3-Stage Cleaning – Dual multi-surface brushes with edge-sweeping brush loosen, lift and vacuum dirt.
– Cliff Detect Sensors – Senses stairs and ledges to avoid falls.
– Automatic Recharging – When battery runs low, it recharges and resumes cleaning.
– Works on All Floor Types – Safe for hard floors and carpets. Adjusts height as needed.
– Full Bin Indicator – Lets you know when it’s time to empty the dust bin.
The Roomba 675 takes the effort out of vacuuming laminate floors. Just press clean or schedule through the app. Cliff detection sensors protect furniture and the vacuum itself. It automatically adjusts cleaning height between floor types.
Vacuuming Tips for Laminate Floors
In addition to choosing the right vacuum, following proper techniques can help protect laminate floors during cleaning:
Go With the Grain
Always vacuum in the same direction as the floor boards, not across or at an angle. This prevents catching or damaging the laminate edges.
Use the Right Vacuum Head
Choose a vacuum head designed for hard floors. Bristle brushes should be avoided as they can scratch. Look for soft roller heads or those with felt padding.
Minimize Debris Buildup
Don’t allow sand, gravel, or other hard debris to build up. They can get caught in the vacuum head and scratch the laminate.
Check Condition Frequently
Inspect the vacuum head before each use. Replace any brushes or rollers that are showing signs of wear.
Keep a Gap From Baseboards
Avoid grinding the vacuum head into baseboards. Keep a small gap to prevent damage.
Watch Out for Water
Avoid contact with any standing water. Laminate flooring can swell and warp if it gets wet.
Pay Attention to Transitions
Slow down and lift the vacuum head when going over transitions between rooms. Don’t force it or let it drop.
Conclusion
Laminate flooring requires regular cleaning to look its best and last a long time. Choosing a vacuum designed for hard floors is the first step. Look for adjustable suction power, soft wheels, and attachments for versatility. Canister vacuums with parquet floor heads tend to work well, along with lightweight stick vacuums. Robot vacuums offer hands-free convenience.
No matter what vacuum you choose, always take care when operating it on laminate. Avoid excessive moisture, debris buildup, and forcing the vacuum head over transitions. With the right vacuum and techniques, you can keep laminate floors spotless and prevent scratches or damage. Maintain the beauty of your laminate flooring investment with a little diligence and the proper vacuum.
Here are some key points to remember:
- Adjustable suction power helps prevent damage to laminate floors.
- Brushrolls should be disabled or avoid vacuums with bristle brushes.
- Large rubber wheels protect laminate and make maneuvering easier.
- Lightweight stick vacuums are convenient for quick cleanups.
- Canister vacuums with parquet floor heads clean gently while providing strong suction.
- Always go with the direction of the floor boards when vacuuming.
- Lift the vacuum head when going over transitions between rooms.
- Keep the vacuum head away from baseboards to avoid damage.
Follow these tips and use one of the recommended vacuums to keep laminate floors looking pristine. With proper care and cleaning, laminate floors can stay beautiful for many years. Let us know if you have any other questions!