Is it possible to wash laminate flooring with a vacuum cleaner?
The vacuum cleaner provides quick and high-quality cleaning of the room. Accordingly, the question “can I wash laminate flooring with a vacuum cleaner or choose manual cleaning?” is asked by each owner of such a device. Of course, you can, but you should know some nuances and follow a number of simple rules.
We will approach this issue from two sides and consider in detail:
- What types of vacuum cleaners can wash laminate flooring.
- Which coating can withstand the impact of a washing vacuum cleaner.
The content of the article
What types of washing vacuum cleaners can wash laminate flooring?
The model of the device you purchase plays an important role. Manufacturers on modern models indicate information about the possibility of using a specific device for wet cleaning of laminate floors.
You can use a washing machine to clean boards if:
- The instructions indicate that the vacuum cleaner is suitable for washing.
- There is a possibility of spraying soap solution in small quantities and there is a function of its reverse suction. The recommended suction power should be at least 450 W.
- There is a special nozzle made of soft material, for example, microfiber can be used, which absorbs moisture well.
- It is necessary to have a drying function after wet cleaning.
Vacuum cleaner models from the following well-known manufacturers have the necessary set of functions: Samsung. Phillips. Cleanfix, Delvir, Lavor.
Which laminate can withstand the impact of a washing vacuum cleaner?
Laminate today is becoming an increasingly popular flooring option due to its cost-effectiveness, practicality, and variety of shades and patterns. At the moment there are several of its classes: 31, 32, 33, 34.
The most durable boards are grade 33–34; it is usually used in public places, such as gyms, kindergartens and schools, and shops. This coating is highly durable and has special protective properties; therefore, it can withstand frequent wet cleaning.
Attention! The weakest and thinnest coating is class 31, it cannot be washed, it will swell from moisture and will most likely be damaged.
Let's figure out which laminate can withstand wet cleaning. To use such equipment, only waterproof or moisture-resistant type is suitable.
The type of moisture resistance depends on the technology used to obtain the material. Manufacturers on modern models indicate the following markings: DPL, DPR, HPL or CPL.
Type 1 - DPL. For this type, wet cleaning is contraindicated, and, accordingly, using a washing vacuum cleaner is prohibited. Cleaning should be done using a regular appliance or using special foam. These types include cached laminate.
Type 2 - DPR. Wet cleaning is allowed every 5-7 days, but only manually and after it it is necessary to wipe the floor with a dry cloth.
Type 3 - HPL. The coating can be washed, but wet cleaning is recommended no more than once a week.
Type 4 - CPL. The material is not afraid of moisture, the washing device is suitable for cleaning.
How can you determine whether laminate flooring can be washed if it was laid a long time ago and you just purchased a vacuum cleaner? Water resistance in this case is determined experimentally. To do this, we moisten a small area in a place that is not very scary to spoil, for example, behind a sofa or other furniture, and evaluate it after a while. If the coating is not damaged or swollen, then the washing machine can be safely used.
Features of cleaning
So, having considered all the nuances, the conclusion suggests itself that washing devices can be used for laminate flooring with the correct selection of appropriate equipment and a waterproof coating.
However, if you want to use a washing vacuum cleaner to wet clean laminate floors, we recommend that you follow the following rules:
- Be sure to make sure that the model of your device is suitable for cleaning boards;
- Do not perform wet cleaning with a washing vacuum cleaner more than once a week;
- Be sure to use a special attachment made of soft fabrics or bristles;
- After wet cleaning, be sure to use the drying function;
- Never use steam for cleaning.
Attention! In order to increase sales, both laminate manufacturers and vacuum cleaner manufacturers can promise laminate resistance to moisture, which is not always justified in practice.
Therefore, before wet cleaning the boards with a washing vacuum cleaner, I recommend conducting an experiment on a small area of the coating, as described earlier in the article.