Q: I have installed laminate flooring. I own a Bissell steam hard flooring cleaner. It heats water until steam comes out and its special padding mops the floor. I have used it on vinyl and ceramic tile. Bissell says that it is safe for laminate. However, I am afraid the heat of the steam may eventually warp the laminate. What do you say?
A: This is a matter of opinion in some cases, but I had a quick chat with Tad A., iFLOOR’s Director of Install, to get his opinion as well. We are both in the same boat here, we don’t have any experience using the Steam Mop with a wood floor and we share a concern similar to yours. Simply put, hot moisture over a floor seems like a recipe for disaster.
Typically, we suggest an appropriate cleaner, such as those made by Bona/BonaKemi or one from your floor’s manufacturer, and a microfiber mop. Now, if you wanted to continue using the steam mop, I would suggest first asking your floors manufacturer for what they suggest and if the warranty would remain in tact when using the Bissell mop. Follow-up with Bissell if you want to be safe here, if they are willing to replace your floor should the warranty be invalid due to using their product which they claim is safe for laminate, then you’re good to go with the Steam Mop.
Personally I would stick to a more typical floor cleaner and microfiber mop. According to Bissell it is safe for laminate, but personally I am a bit skeptical about using a steam mop over wood flooring.
