Steam Mop On Unsealed Laminate

[fairycakes69]

Hi does anyone use a steam mop on unsealed laminate? My floors are awful, tried everything and still looking dull and streaky. Keep looking at the mops, know not supposed to use them, but running it of options.

[woofgang]

Have you got an offcut or, failing that a bit of floor that is always covered by furniture where you could try it?

[woofgang]

Oh sorry, you haven't got one....could you borrow one?

[fairycakes69]

That's a really good idea, could try under the sofa. I 've seen one for £20, will maybe get that and see how it goes.

Cheers

[Clanad]

Surely they aren't 'unsealed'... here in the U.S., I know of no laminate (or engineered) flloring that isn't sealed. True 3/4 inch hardwood tongue and groove flooring is often not 'sealed' since they can be sanded and refinished, but not laminate. That's not to say the seams may not be sealed once fitted, but that's a different kettle of fish.

If the seams aren't treated (most often with a small bead of wood glue just as they are fitted together) then perhaps the edges would separate if exposed to any water but exacerbated by steam under force...

[EDDIE51]

Advice about cleaning laminate floor here
http://www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk/info/How_to_Put_Shine_Back_on_Laminate_Flooring.html
Look at the advice about getting rid of old residue from using the wrong cleaning products, that seems to fit what you say about 'dull and streaky'

[fairycakes69]

The laminate is the click together type, no glue is used, It does say not suitable for bathrooms. Have tried vinegar mixed with water, guess I'll try it neat with a cloth, that's my weekend taken care of, oh the joys.

[douglas9401]

I put 'don't use in wet areas' laminate flooring on the kitchen and have had no problems with boards swelling or splitting even after a washing machine leak and
various sink related splashes.
If water doesn't lie for too long it seems fine, just have a towel or whatever handy for any puddles and I'm sure you'll be fine.