Laminated wood flooring is attractive and durable, but how easy is it to maintain? What should you do when stains, particularly stubborn rust stains, appear on your flooring?
To effectively care for laminated wood flooring, you first need to understand its composition, manufacturing process, and installation method. Then, you can explore the best cleaning techniques for this type of floor. General maintenance is straightforward, but neglecting stains as soon as they appear can lead to problems.
Before diving into rust stain removal, here’s an overview of laminated wood flooring and its general upkeep.
Understanding Laminated Wood Flooring
Laminated wood flooring, often referred to as floating wood tile, is made from wood by-products bonded under pressure. Unlike solid wood, laminated wood products are not solid wood, nor are they made from vinyl, though many manufacturers also produce synthetic flooring options like linoleum and vinyl.
Essentially, laminate flooring consists of a high-resolution photograph of wood grain impregnated with melamine—a compound commonly used in synthetic resins for kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom cabinets. This image is fixed to a high-density fiberboard (HDF) core and coated with a durable, transparent protective layer.
Laminate flooring comes in “planks” that are either glued or clicked together and should always be laid on a suitable underlay.
Keeping Your Laminate Flooring Pristine
One common issue with laminate flooring is that specialized cleaning products, as described in this guide on cleaning laminate flooring, can leave a residue or a slightly sticky film on the surface. Diluting the cleaner with water may help mitigate this problem. Steam mops often cause streaking, and even plain water can leave marks as it dries.
A 50-50 mix of vinegar and water can be effective, provided you use a mop or steamer that prevents the solution from drying on the floor. Alternatively, a few drops of lemon-scented dish detergent in warm water can work well. Another popular method involves using a window-cleaning product: sweep or vacuum loose dirt, spray the cleaner in sections, and mop with a flexible-head mop equipped with a thick, removable microfiber pad.
Removing Rust Stains from Laminate Flooring
Even with diligent cleaning, rust stains can pose a challenge. Often caused by metal objects rusting upon contact with water, these stains consist of tiny iron oxide particles. Some chemicals, like chlorine-based bleach, can worsen the stain or cause discoloration, bleaching, or yellowing of the floor.
While nail varnish remover may remove rust, it can also damage the laminate. Oxalic acid, a white powder available at hardware stores, is another suggested remedy. However, as a strong bleach, it may lighten the surrounding area, posing a risk to the flooring’s appearance.
Commercial Rust Removal Products
Several commercial rust removal products are available, with varying effectiveness. Research consumer feedback on products suitable for laminated wood floors and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Check product labels for warnings about potential damage, which may be in fine print.
Water-based products, such as Ultra On Rust Remover, which is biodegradable and non-toxic, are generally safer. Other options include:
- Bar Keepers Friend Lime & Rust Remover: Some users praise it, while others find it ineffective. Make a paste, apply it to the stain, and wipe it off without scrubbing to avoid damaging the laminate.
- Zud Heavy Duty Cleanser: Designed to tackle rust and other tough stains.
- Whink Rust & Iron Stain Remover: Safe for vinyl finishes, making it suitable for laminate flooring.
Before applying any product, test it on a small, inconspicuous section of the stain to ensure it doesn’t harm the flooring.
Homemade Rust Removal Solutions
For a chemical-free, cost-effective approach, try these home remedies, but always test on a small area first.
A mixture of white spirit vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, and water in equal parts can form a thick solution or paste (add more bicarbonate for a thicker consistency). Apply it to the stain, let it sit, then rinse with clean, cold water and wipe dry.
Another effective remedy involves sprinkling fine-grain table salt on the stain, then gently rubbing it with a halved lemon or lime. Avoid coarse salt, which may scratch the surface. If needed, sprinkle more salt, wet the area with lemon juice, and let it soak for about 24 hours. Gently rub with a lemon half and rinse with water.
Liquid ammonia, though effective, is toxic and should be a last resort. Mix two tablespoons of ammonia with four cups of warm water, pour over the stain, blot with a cloth or paper towel, and rinse with cold water. Wear gloves, avoid inhaling fumes, and consider wearing a mask.
If using oxalic acid, dilute it with twice the amount of warm water (1:2 ratio), apply, and rinse thoroughly after up to an hour. Wear gloves and avoid inhaling fumes.
For rust stains on wood or carpet, always wipe excess rust with a damp cloth before applying any solution, and perform a small section test to ensure safety.
