When choosing a new wood flooring product, you need to bear many considerations in mind. As well as the cost, the look and the installation of a type of flooring, you also need to consider how easy it will be to clean.

To help you choose between laminate and hardwood flooring, here are the basic things you need to know about cleaning each floor covering.

Cleaning laminate flooring

Remember the following:

• Sweep your laminate flooring every day to keep it clear of dirt and grit
• To wash laminate flooring, avoid using a lot of water as this can damage it
• Damp-wipe the floor using a fully wrung-out flat mop rather than a soaking wet mop
• Only ever use clean, warm water
• Only use cleaning products especially designed for laminate flooring and your particular type of floor

Cleaning hardwood flooring

Remember the following:

• Sweep your hardwood flooring as often as you can
• Only mop your floor if it has been sealed with a special water-resistant finish
• When mopping, use as little water as possible
• Unsealed floors can be washed, but only with a slightly damp mop or cloth
• Avoid polishing your hardwood floor – it becomes extremely slippery and could cause a serious accident!