Using a Steam Cleaner

• Laminate manufacturers do not recommend using steam cleaners on laminate floors. This is because steam cleaners use too much steam that is too hot. This steam can burn the wood and can actually get in between the floorboards. Once this happens, the floor can buckle and begin to squeak. Excess moisture can also result in wood rot, which will ruin your floors.
  
  

Using a Steam Mop

• Steam mops are a type of steam cleaner that are less industrial and use less heat. These gentler steam cleaners are approved for use on sealed laminate floors. This is because they do not push steam into the floor with great force. Only use a steam mop that is approved for use on laminate floors, and always consult your laminate floor manufacturer to determine if you can use the steam mop.
  
  

Precautions

• Any cleaning process that uses a lot of water on a laminate floor risks the water soaking into the laminate. Take the proper precautions to make sure the water doesn't damage your floor. Do not use the steam mop to clean the floor every day, and only use it for deep cleaning every few weeks. Push the steam mop across the floor quickly to ensure that you don't press steam into only one area.
  
  

Alternative

• There are other methods for cleaning laminate that are efficient and effective. Damp mopping is a common method that does not apply too much water to the floor. This will cut down on drying times. To damp mop, soak the mop in soapy water and wring out as much of it as possible. Push the mop across the floor until the mop becomes covered in dirt and debris. Repeat the process until the floor is clean.