Because of its design, cleaning hybrid flooring is simple: regularly sweep or vacuum to remove dirt, use a damp mop with a mild cleaner for more thorough cleaning, and avoid abrasive tools and steam cleaners to prevent damage. As hard flooring experts, we understand the nuances of maintaining your floors to keep them looking pristine. Our comprehensive guide covers all aspects of cleaning hybrid flooring to help you preserve its beauty and durability.
In case you can’t read the whole article, here is a quick summary of what to do:
- Regular Maintenance: Sweep, vacuum, and mop with the right products.
- Avoid Abrasives: No steel wool, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals.
- Clean Spills Immediately: Wipe up spills as soon as they happen.
- Use Mild Cleaners: Opt for pH-neutral or homemade cleaning solutions.
- Preventive Measures: Use mats and furniture pads and protect them from direct sunlight.
Understanding Hybrid Flooring
Hybrid flooring combines the attributes of laminate and vinyl to create a durable, waterproof, and aesthetically pleasing option. And understanding its composition is essential to maintaining it properly.
Types of Hybrid Flooring
- SPC (Stone Plastic Composite): Made from limestone and stabilisers, SPC hybrid flooring is highly durable and resistant to impacts.
- WPC (Wood Plastic Composite): Comprising recycled wood and plastic, WPC hybrid flooring offers a softer feel underfoot and better insulation properties.
Expert Insights From Clem Sturgess
20+ years' experience in hard flooring
We recommend reading this blog to learn “the things you don’t know about hybrid flooring” and why we strongly recommend SPC over WPC.
Benefits of Hybrid Floors
- Waterproof: This option is ideal for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and laundries. Visit our waterproof flooring page to see our most water-resistant hybrid options.
- Durable: Resistant to scratches and dents, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Mimics the look of natural wood, adding a touch of elegance to any space. We recommend reading this article on why hybrid flooring is so popular to learn more about its benefits.
Cleaning Hybrid Floors in More Detail
Keeping your hybrid flooring in top condition requires regular cleaning and maintenance.
Here’s how to ensure it stays clean and aesthetically pleasing:
Sweeping and Vacuuming
Regularly sweep or vacuum your hybrid floors to remove dirt and debris. Use a vacuum with a soft brush head to avoid scratching the surface. This routine prevents dust and grit from accumulating, which can wear down the floor’s protective layer.
How to Clean and Vacuum Floating Floorboards
Floating floorboards, a standard installation method for hybrid flooring, require careful cleaning to avoid shifting or damage. Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum with a hard floor setting to remove dirt. Follow with a damp mop using a pH-neutral cleaner.
Mopping
The best mopping process for hybrid floors is a damp mop with clean water or a mild cleaner. Soaking the floor can cause excessive water to seep into the subfloor. After mopping, it’s advisable to dry the floor with an old towel or open windows and doors to prevent water damage.
The Best Mop for Hybrid Floors
The best mop for hybrid floors is one with a microfiber head. Microfiber mops are gentle on the floor’s surface yet effective at picking up dirt and debris. Ensure the mop is only damp, not wet, to avoid excess water on the floor.
Cleaning Spills
Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining and potential damage. Use a clean, dry cloth or a mop wrung out in clean water, followed by drying with a dry cloth. Prompt action is critical to maintaining the floor’s appearance and integrity.
Products and Tools to Avoid
Maintaining the integrity of your hybrid flooring requires a careful selection of cleaning tools and products.
Here’s what to avoid to keep your floors in top condition:
Abrasive Cleaners
Avoid using abrasive tools like steel wool, scouring pads, and harsh chemicals because they can scratch or damage the surface of your hybrid flooring. Instead, use non-abrasive cleaning tools that are designed specifically for delicate surfaces. Abrasive cleaners can strip away the protective layer, leaving your floor vulnerable to damage.
Steam Cleaners
Although hybrid floors are waterproof, it’s best not to use steam cleaners. The high temperatures from steam cleaners can cause the flooring to warp or swell, especially if used improperly. Stick to a damp mop and ensure any excess water is promptly dried to avoid potential damage.
Recommended Hybrid Floor Cleaning Solutions
When choosing a hybrid floor cleaner from a retail outlet, look for products specifically designed for hybrid floors. These cleaners are formulated to clean effectively without damaging the floor’s protective layer. Avoid using cleaners designed for other floor types, as they may contain harsh chemicals.
Using the right cleaning solutions is crucial for maintaining the appearance and durability of your hybrid flooring.
Here are some recommended options:
Mild Detergents
Opt for a pH-neutral floor cleaner for hybrid flooring. These gentle yet effective cleaners ensure the floor’s surface is cleaned without damage. Harsh chemicals can deteriorate the flooring over time, so mild detergents are the best way to clean hybrid flooring.
Homemade Cleaners
A mixture of vinegar and water is an excellent cleaner for hybrid floors, offering both effectiveness and safety for regular use. Another homemade option for tackling more stubborn stains is a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, which cleans thoroughly without damaging the floor’s finish.
Pre-emptive Care
Preventive measures can significantly reduce the cleaning needed and extend the life of your hybrid flooring.
Here’s what you can do:
Entrance Mats
Place mats at entrances to trap dirt and debris before they reach your hybrid floors. For maximum effectiveness, use mats both outside and inside the entrance. This simple step can drastically reduce the amount of dirt and grit that ends up on your floors.
Furniture Pads
To prevent scratches when moving furniture, apply felt pads to the legs. This precaution is crucial for heavier furniture, as it reduces the risk of damage. For optimal results, lift furniture instead of dragging it across the floor.
Curtains and Blinds
Protect your flooring from direct sunlight, which can cause it to fade over time. Using curtains, blinds or interior shutters on windows that receive a lot of sunlight can help maintain the colour and integrity of your hybrid flooring.
Avoid Dragging Heavy Items
Always lift heavy items instead of dragging them across the floor. Dragging can leave unsightly scratches and dents on the surface. For items that are difficult to lift, use furniture sliders or a dolly to minimise contact with the floor.
Pet Care
If you have pets, trim their nails to avoid scratches on the hybrid flooring. Use area rugs in high-traffic areas to provide an extra layer of protection. Regularly clean these rugs to prevent dirt from spreading onto the floor. Read this blog to discover the best flooring for dogs, cats and pets.
Enjoy Your Flooring for Many Years to Come
Regular cleaning and maintenance of hybrid flooring are essential to preserve its appearance and functionality. Following these guidelines allows you to enjoy beautiful, durable hybrid flooring for years.
FAQ’s
Yes, hybrid floors are designed to be 100% waterproof. This makes them an excellent choice for moisture-prone areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. The construction of hybrid flooring includes a waterproof core layer, which prevents water from penetrating and damaging the floor.
To clean waterproof hybrid floors, follow these steps:
- Sweep or Vacuum: Regularly remove dirt and debris using a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hard floor setting.
- Damp Mop: Use a damp mop with a mild, pH-neutral floor cleaner. Ensure the mop is only damp, not soaking wet, to prevent excess water on the floor.
- Wipe Spills Immediately: Clean up any spills as soon as they occur to avoid potential staining.
- Avoid Abrasives: Do not use steel wool, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals that could damage the floor’s surface.
- No Steam Cleaners: Refrain from using steam cleaners, as high temperatures can warp or swell the flooring.
These steps will help maintain the appearance and integrity of your waterproof hybrid floors.
Hybrid floors effectively resist water, making them perfect for high-humidity areas like laundries and kitchens. Unlike hardwood or laminate flooring, which can swell or warp when wet, hybrid flooring can handle significant moisture exposure. However, if water seeps into the inner layers, it can weaken the material and cause crumbling. Prolonged moisture exposure can damage hybrid floors, especially if water accumulates inside. To maintain durability, it's essential to prevent water from sitting on the floor for extended periods.
No, using a steam mop on hybrid flooring is not recommended because the temperature exceeds 120°C, which is over 30°C higher than the hybrid threshold. The high temperature and moisture from the steam can damage the floor by causing it to warp or swell. Instead, use a damp mop with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner to maintain your hybrid flooring without risking damage.
Yes, hybrid flooring is designed to be highly resistant to scratches, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and homes with pets and children. The surface layer of hybrid flooring typically includes a protective coating that enhances its durability against everyday wear and tear. However, to maintain its scratch-resistant properties, it's important to use felt pads under furniture legs, avoid dragging heavy items across the floor, and trim pet nails.
