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Flooring Guide

How to Maintain and Care for Your Floors

By Ryte Flooring · Updated

Your floors are a major investment, and the right care keeps them beautiful and durable for years. Each material needs a slightly different routine. Here’s how to look after hardwood, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), laminate and tile. Always check your product’s care guide too, since following it helps protect the manufacturer’s warranty.

1. Hardwood: Protecting Natural Beauty

Hardwood adds warmth and elegance, but it needs gentle care.

  • Sweep or vacuum often to remove grit that can scratch the finish.
  • Use a damp (not wet) microfiber mop with a wood-safe cleaner.
  • Place rugs in high-traffic areas and at entries.
  • Put felt pads under furniture legs.

Pro tip: avoid steam mops and harsh chemicals, which can damage and dull hardwood over time.

2. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Easy Care for Busy Homes

LVP is one of the easiest floors to maintain.

  • Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
  • Mop with warm water and a mild, vinyl-safe cleaner.
  • Wipe up spills promptly.
  • Use felt pads on furniture legs to prevent scuffs and dents.

Pro tip: avoid rubber-backed mats, which can discolor vinyl over time.

3. Laminate: Keep It Dry and Clean

Laminate’s tough surface resists scratches, but it doesn’t like standing water.

  • Sweep, dust-mop or vacuum (hard-floor setting) regularly.
  • Clean with a barely damp mop and a laminate-safe cleaner. Never wet-mop or flood the floor.
  • Wipe up spills right away, especially near seams.
  • Use felt pads under furniture and mats at entry doors.

Pro tip: skip steam mops and wax or polish products, which can damage the surface and the seams.

4. Tile: Keeping Grout Clean & Fresh

Tile is durable and water-resistant, but grout takes a little attention.

  • Sweep and mop regularly to remove dirt.
  • Use a grout cleaner or baking-soda paste to keep grout lines bright.
  • Seal grout as recommended for your grout type to protect against moisture and stains.
  • Use a pH-neutral cleaner, especially on natural stone.

Pro tip: avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch tile, especially glossy finishes.

Protect Your Investment

Proper care starts with a proper installation. A floor laid over a flat, dry, well-prepped subfloor wears better and lasts longer. If you have questions about caring for your floors, or you’re ready for new ones, give us a call.

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