Choosing mops for laminate flooring
Laminate is the most common floor covering that offers excellent performance at an optimal price per square meter. It is supposed to last a long time and without any problems. At the same time, it is important to understand how to properly care for the laminated flooring.
Species overview
Special mops are technologically advanced devices. They are more compact and convenient, made of lightweight material and equipped with various attachments for dry and wet cleaning.
Household
The most inexpensive floor cleaning solution is the classic wooden T-bar mop. You can easily make it yourself, and any hygroscopic cloth will work here as a rag. There are ready-made floor rags on sale. The standard model with the most elementary device does not lose its relevance to this day, since it does not take up much space, is cheap and does not require costs in the form of buying new attachments.
Models with sponge rollers with automatic spinning are also relevant for more than one year. This option is suitable not only for cleaning laminate, but also for any surface. The roller on a new product must first be soaked until softened. As it gets dirty, the nozzle is changed to a new one. Such a mop is not always perfect, sometimes leaving streaks after drying.
It is advisable to wipe down the wet laminate with a clean, dry cloth. A classic household mop is suitable for this.
The next version is equipped with a working platform measuring 30-40 cm. A special nozzle made of microfiber, terry or waffle fabric is put on the mop. It is convenient to have a set of cloth attachments for better and more thorough cleaning.The structure for cleaning the floor is most often made of plastic.
Rope version of the attachment on a round or triangular platform. Instead of a solid rag cloth, cotton ropes are used. Such models are often sold complete with a bucket and a wringer compartment. Convenient models have an adjustable sliding handle with a secure fit. The platform with the nozzle is usually stationary, but there are also rotating versions.
Universal
This design features a 180 degree turntable. There is a silicone or rubber squeegee on one side and a brush on the other that removes all dirt. This mop is convenient for cleaning various surfaces. It is recommended to use a foamed polyurethane sponge for washing.
Another popular type of laminate mop is the spin model. It folds like butterfly wings or an envelope. Often comes with a bucket. Nozzles are selected individually: microfiber, cellulose, sponges of different densities. The least unsuitable for laminate are rope nozzles, in which water remains even after wringing.
Professional
The first difference between the specialized level models is the handle design. The platform rotates 360 degrees. Such a mop is reliable and ergonomic; it can be extended in length up to 4 meters. This helps to clean up the most difficult areas.
With a professional device, large areas of flooring can be cleaned in a short time. The nozzle is effectively squeezed directly onto the mop. The designs and models of professional cleaning tools are impressive in variety.
The complete set always includes:
- bucket (sometimes 2 pcs.);
- base on casters, with a handle for moving;
- compartment for wringing;
- handle with platform.
For lovers of fast and high-quality cleaning, a compact model is suitable - a mop with a spray. The volume of the removable tank holds 200-300 ml. When pressure is applied to the device, a finely dispersed substance is released, delicately moisturizing the floor surface. The rotating platform pivots in any direction, extracting dirt from even distant areas. In this case, the liquid is consumed quite economically.
Professional mops are equipped with a wide variety of attachments that are designed to clean specific floor surfaces. These options are more suitable for cleaning large living spaces or offices.
The attachments are easy to change, there is an automatic spinning and a convenient retractable handle. With them, caring for laminate and parquet flooring will not be difficult.
The steam mop is also very popular these days. In terms of weight and price, it differs significantly from its predecessors. A number of advantages contribute to the fastest elimination of stubborn dirt, without the addition of any detergents. In addition, the steam can clean not only the flooring, but also the walls and windows. Professionals recommend purchasing expensive spin mops from trusted manufacturers. This approach guarantees a long service life of the inventory.
Model rating
This list provides a variety of wet and dry mop designs. The rating was compiled on the basis of positive feedback from customers who appreciated the ease of use and the good quality of cleaning.
Lime. Reversible model
On one side of the nozzle there is an abrasive surface for removing stubborn dirt. The other side is made of long-pile microfiber - for damp cleaning or surface polishing. The mop handle with extendable handle is adjustable from 75 to 135 cm. The weight of the mop is 700 grams. The average cost in stores is 800 rubles.
Leifheit Piccolo Dutch
Model for cleaning moisture-sensitive surfaces. The moving head mop thoroughly cleans the most difficult to reach areas. The cleaning base of delicate microfiber with a small pile length gently wipes the laminated coating without leaving streaks. The attachment perfectly absorbs moisture and can be machine washed at a temperature of no more than 30 degrees. Product weight - 750 grams. The average cost is 1,500 rubles.
BoomJoy JY8816
Mop with a reservoir for water and detergent. At the top of the handle is the spray arm. 300 ml capacity is enough for cleaning up to 120 sq. m. The microfiber nozzle easily picks up small debris, dust and polishes the laminate. Useful attachments can be added to this model to maintain cleanliness. A scraper is supplied with the mop. Product weight - 760 grams. The average cost is 2,100 rubles.
Vileda Ultramax Easy Twist
Model with a convenient and efficient spinning mechanism. Platform with rubberized edges to protect furniture and floors while cleaning. There is a special anti-slip insert on the handle. Combined microfiber nozzle. Machine washable up to 60 degrees. The length of the handle is 125 cm. The weight of the device is 890 grams. The average cost is 1800 rubles.
Catchmop
A mop with a flounder attachment that tackles the toughest dirt even without detergents. The nozzle is made of soft microfibre for a streak-free cleaning of the floor. Thanks to its double-sided modification, cleaning time is significantly reduced.
On the sides of the platform there are silicone inserts for cleaning the skirting boards. The telescopic aluminum handle adjusts to any height and does not strain your hand. The average cost is 5800 rubles.
Black + Decker FSM1616
Steam mop for cleaning and disinfecting all kinds of floor coverings. The cleaning platform rotates 180 degrees, removing dirt even from hard-to-reach places. Convenient form for cleaning floor in corners. The attachment is attached to the platform with Velcro. The removable tank has a volume of 350 ml. This is enough for continuous 17-minute operation of the device. The power of the model is 1.6 kW. The average cost is 6900 rubles.
Karcher FC3
Cordless model, excellent cleaning beveled laminate with a pronounced texture. The set includes two attachments for effective cleaning of various surfaces. The device sucks in water, does not need a bucket, and surpasses all the listed analogues in the quality of cleaning. Does not leave streaks even on a glossy surface, and makes a matte surface flawlessly and evenly cleaned. No need to wring out rags, get your hands dirty, or straining too much.
The device of German quality will cope with cleaning without the effort of the user. Taking into account the stylish design, this model is a real find for maintaining cleanliness in everyday life. The cost is within 18,000 rubles.
Which mop is best for you?
The choice of a mop is carried out on the basis of the tasks and the required cleaning efficiency. For some, the decisive factor is the weight of the product, while others dream of an automated process for cleaning the floor. In any case, only by looking at the designs in detail, you can understand where to stop. Mops for daily and general cleaning can vary significantly in design and size.
For dry cleaning of laminated flooring, a product with a fluffy pile attachment is suitable. For washing the floor at home, it is important that the fabric is well wrung out and instantly absorbs moisture. The most comfortable beveled handle, made of plastic or aluminum alloy. Their weight is equal, but the metal version is more durable. In operation, telescopic handles are more convenient, adjusting to height and more functional when cleaning.
If a steam model is being considered, you should pay attention to the length of the cord and the number of outlets in the house. The wired device should be easy to clean in all corners of the room. An important selection criterion is the volume of the tank and the water consumption. The large reservoir makes the device more bulky and inconvenient.
For heavily soiled laminated surfaces, it is advisable to use the short loop attachment. Long pile is more suitable for daily cleaning in order to freshen the floor by removing dust.
The pad should have excellent absorbency. There should be no moisture on the surface of the laminate, and even less water, otherwise the coating will quickly deteriorate.
How to use it correctly?
Laminate is a coating that is sufficiently resistant to damage and moisture. But to extend the life of the laminate floor, it is worth taking note of certain rules.
- Wet cleaning is not shown for every class of laminated board. If the class is below 31, then washing the floors is permissible at most once a week. For a higher class, frequent washing is allowed, provided that at the end of cleaning the floor is wiped dry.
- To avoid traces of detergent, the floor should be washed twice, using clean water at the final stage. Then the laminated surface will delight with cleanliness without streaks and different-looking areas.
- It is important that no water gets into the joints between the planks. Otherwise, the material will swell and the floor will deform. It will no longer be possible to put the damaged boards in place. The floors will have to be remodeled, which is much more costly than buying a quality mop initially.
To preserve the appearance of the laminate flooring, different attachments and a high-quality mop are needed. With such an arsenal, cleaning will not be a burden, taking up a minimum of time and effort.