These days, people want a particular style of flooring that offers a classic or modern look, and they are prepared to invest in it. Putting in the time to make sure any kind of flooring keeps its new visage is ideal. The right types of flooring for your home can vary by room.

This way, people can ensure that their investment continues to make enjoyable dividends for many years to come. These tips help homeowners, once they’ve chosen the best flooring for them, identify the best ways to clean and maintain their flooring, no matter what kind they have.

1. Carpet

The best way to keep a carpet looking newer may depend largely on the type of carpet. Carpets with a thin or short pile could be easier to vacuum or remove stains than carpet with a thick or long pile. Homeowners can minimize the workload by vacuuming at least once a week, and cleaning up spills promptly. Carpets can be shampooed every 12-18 months to eliminate deep-set debris and stains. However, people should avoid using water to clean carpets too frequently, as it could increase the likelihood of mildew or mold development.

2. Hardwood

Hardwood flooring has a timeless style that can last for decades with the right care, making it great for resale value. Hardwood planks may accumulate dust and debris, especially if they have a lot of grooves or a highly textured grain. Running a simple dust mop across the floor once a day will help to minimize long-term accumulation of grime, which can be harder to remove. People should wipe up spills straightaway. Vacuuming without the brush attachment is ideal for wood flooring with beveled edges. Cleaning with a specially-designed cleanser for wood is an appropriate task to complete once a month.

3. Tile

Unlike most other types of flooring, tile usually has two components that homeowners need to maintain: the tile and the grout. Each requires a different process to keep it looking its best. Tiles made of ceramic or porcelain are less porous than hardwood or stone, making them a popular improvement with a high ROI. Wiping them clean with warm water and perhaps a little lemon juice will cut through buildup and leave a nice shine. The grout is more porous, and prone to absorption of grease and grime. It may need extra scrubbing once a month with a grout brush and a mild abrasive mixture like baking soda and water. Resealing the grout every few years will protect the grout from absorbing dirt and stains.

4. Stone

The appearance of natural stone tile or slabs is hard to beat, but also a little harder to manage. Stone can discolor quickly with spills, and the discoloration could be permanent without prompt attention. Regular use of a dust mop is an excellent choice. Acids and abrasive cleansers are generally inappropriate for many kinds of stone, because they can bleach or scratch the surface. People can avoid long-term damage by using a soft cloth and a mild soap. The surface needs to be wiped dry after cleaning, so that the water does not have time to soak into the stone.

5. Laminate

Flooring made of laminate is generally simpler to manage than hardwood flooring, but still requires a little extra care. Laminate is a popular choice for bathrooms and kitchens, but people should take the time to wipe up wet spots immediately. Laminate has a protective top layer that can become scratched or warped over time. Homeowners should avoid waxy or acidic cleaners, because they can damage the floor or leave an unsightly buildup. Frequent sweeping or vacuuming with a soft brush should get rid of most accumulation. A damp mop once a week can often take care of the rest.

6. Vinyl

Vinyl flooring could be one of the easiest flooring types to clean and maintain, which is why it’s such a popular flooring option. Most varieties are water-resistant, so they do not easily absorb liquid like other kinds of flooring. Sweeping or vacuuming a few times a week will prevent most dust or dirt buildup. Once a week, homeowners can use a damp mop to clean the entire floor. Wiping dried-on spills is best done with a mild detergent and a wet cloth or soft sponge. Prompt spot-cleaning from spills like oil or lemon juice are important to avoid discoloring the vinyl.

Cleaning the floor is a task that homeowners must manage, regardless of the type of flooring they have. By taking advantage of this advice, people can minimize damage to their flooring and keep it looking beautiful for the enjoyment of themselves and their guests.