To maintain the pristine condition and warranty of your COREtec flooring, it is crucial to avoid using certain cleaning products that can cause damage or leave undesirable residues. The primary types of cleaners to steer clear of are detergents and abrasive cleaners.
Why Avoid Specific Cleaners?
Using inappropriate cleaning agents on COREtec flooring can have detrimental effects. Detergents and abrasive cleaners, in particular, are known to:
- Leave a Dull Residue: These products can leave a hazy, dull film on the surface of your COREtec planks, diminishing their natural sheen and making them appear dirty or worn over time.
- Damage the Finish: Abrasive cleaners, by their very nature, can scratch or erode the protective layer of your flooring, making it more susceptible to wear and tear.
Products to Exclude from Your Cleaning Routine
For optimal care and longevity of your COREtec floors, ensure you never use the following:
- Detergents: This includes most common household floor cleaners that contain strong surfactants or foaming agents. While effective on some surfaces, they are unsuitable for COREtec.
- Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid any cleaner containing harsh scrubbing agents, scouring powders, or rough particles designed to scrub away dirt. This also extends to abrasive scrubbing pads or tools.
- Wax-based Polishes or Cleaners: COREtec flooring does not require waxing, and applying wax-based products can lead to a sticky buildup that traps dirt and creates an uneven finish.
- Oil-based Soaps or Cleaners: These can leave a greasy film that dulls the surface and attracts dust.
- Harsh Chemicals: Products like ammonia, bleach, or other strong alkaline or acidic cleaners should never be used, as they can cause discoloration or damage to the flooring's composition.
- Steam Cleaners: The high heat and moisture from steam cleaners can potentially damage the core and layers of your COREtec flooring.
Summary of What Not to Use
Here’s a quick overview of cleaning agents to avoid:
| Cleaning Product Type | Reason to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Detergents | Can leave a dull, hazy residue |
| Abrasive Cleaners | Can scratch or dull the finish; leave residue |
| Wax-based Products | Creates buildup, dulls finish, attracts dirt |
| Oil-based Soaps | Leaves a greasy film, attracts dust |
| Harsh Chemicals | Causes discoloration or material damage |
| Steam Cleaners | Risk of heat and moisture damage to flooring layers |
Recommended Cleaning Practices
For general cleaning, a simple approach is best. Regular sweeping or vacuuming (using a hard floor attachment) will remove loose dirt and debris. For wet cleaning, a damp mop with water is usually sufficient.
For stubborn spots or scuffs that water and general cleaning agents cannot remove, a solvent-type cleaner is recommended. Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) applied with a clean, white cloth can effectively target and remove these difficult spots without harming your COREtec flooring. Always ensure the cloth is clean to avoid transferring dirt back onto the floor.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure your COREtec flooring remains beautiful and durable for years to come.
