ProSource Wholesale
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10/1/2024
Before performing any cleaning or maintenance, always refer to your product’s specific cleaning and care instructions. The guidelines in this article are generally accepted as safe for each category, but product specifications should be followed to avoid damage.
Choosing the right flooring, countertops, and bathroom features is only half the battle. Keeping them clean and beautiful for years to come takes knowing how to care for your specific products. In this guide, we’ll break down cleaning tips for some of the most common surfaces in your home, helping you maintain their beauty and longevity.
Taking Care of Your Flooring
Your flooring does a lot of heavy lifting in your home, from handling foot traffic to managing the occasional spill. However, with proper care, it can look brand new for years. Whether you're dealing with carpet, hardwood, or vinyl, we’ve got tips to help.
How to Clean Carpet
Carpet maintenance is key to preserving its look. To clean your carpet, vacuum regularly — at least twice a week in high-traffic areas. For deeper cleaning, consider professional steam cleaning every 12 to 18 months. Have a stubborn stain? Blot (don’t rub!) the spot with a mixture of mild detergent and water.
Pro Tip: Act fast on spills to prevent stains from setting. A store-bought carpet cleaner might be your best friend for tougher stain removal spots like wine or coffee.
How to Clean Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors add warmth to any home, but they need special attention. Start with sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and dust. Avoid excess water in deep cleaned rooms—wood and water don’t mix well! Use a slightly damp mop and a wood-safe cleaner.
Best Way to Clean Hardwood Floors: A microfiber mop paired with a hardwood floor cleaner can make all the difference. Stay away from harsh chemicals or steam cleaners that can damage the finish.
How to Clean Vinyl Floors
Vinyl floors are popular for their durability but still need a little TLC. Sweep or vacuum regularly, and mop with a mixture of water and mild detergent.
Pro Tip: Avoid abrasive scrubbers and wax-based cleaners. A soft mop and gentle cleaning solution are all you need to keep that vinyl shine.
How to Clean Laminate Floors
Laminate flooring mimics the beauty of wood but requires less maintenance. Just like you would with vinyl, sweep or vacuum regularly. Use a laminate-specific cleaner with a microfiber mop for the best results.
Best Way to Clean Laminate Floors: Never let water sit on laminate. Excess moisture can cause warping, so keep mopping light.
Want to learn more about the differences between caring for vinyl and laminate flooring? Check out our recent article on the subject, featuring Jason Ramsay, a tile and flooring Contractor/flooring inspector for California Flooring Services and an installer member at ProSource of Orange County, CA.
How to Maintain Your Flooring
For all types of flooring — whether carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl, or laminate — the key to longevity is routine care. Avoid dragging heavy furniture across floors. Use rugs in high-traffic areas, and clean up spills immediately. These small habits can go a long way!
Shoes are the main culprit for wear and tear on floors, especially in high-traffic areas. In many cultures, people don’t wear shoes indoors for a good reason—footwear tracks in the dirt, debris, small stones, and germs and bacteria. Whether you have carpet, laminate, or vinyl, keeping these elements at bay can feel like a constant battle. Taking off your shoes at the door will help keep your flooring looking newer for longer.
Taking Care of Your Tile and Grout
Tile floors and shower tiles are beautiful and practical, but they need proper upkeep to maintain their luster.
How to Clean Tile Floors
Tile floors are known for their durability, but dirt can settle in the grout lines. As an effective cleaning method, sweep and mop regularly with a mild tile cleaner.
Best Way to Clean Tile Floors: Use a soft brush to scrub grout lines and a pH-neutral cleaner to avoid discoloration over time.
How to Clean Shower Tiles and Grout
Shower tiles can collect soap scum, and grout lines are notorious for mold buildup. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water to clean shower tiles and use a small brush for the grout. For stubborn grime, try a grout cleaner with bleach.
Pro Tip: Keep a squeegee in the shower to remove excess water and prevent buildup.
How to Maintain Tile for Longevity
Seal grout lines annually to protect them from moisture and stains. Keeping up with this simple task ensures your tiles stay looking new longer.
Taking Care of Your Countertops
Countertops are the centerpiece of your kitchen and bath, and proper care ensures they stay looking pristine.
How to Clean Granite Countertops
Granite is naturally resistant to stains, but it still requires special care. Clean granite with warm water and mild dish soap. Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach or vinegar that can damage the stone.
Best Way to Clean Granite Countertops: Always use a soft cloth or sponge, and remember to dry thoroughly after cleaning to avoid water spots.
How to Clean Quartz Countertops
Quartz is a great choice for low-maintenance countertops, but still benefits from regular cleaning. Wipe it down with a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth. Avoid exposing quartz to extreme heat or direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Best Way to Clean Quartz Countertops: Use a gentle all-purpose cleaner or a mix of dish soap and water. Skip harsh chemicals, as they can damage the resin in the quartz.
How to Maintain Your Countertops
Sealing granite once a year will help protect against stains, while quartz requires little more than regular cleaning. Always use cutting boards and trivets to protect your surfaces from scratches and heat.
Getting the Most Out of Your Product Warranty
Taking care of your flooring and countertops keeps them looking great and helps you get the most out of any product warranty you might have. From a carpet warranty to the 25-year protection on many hard surface floors, routine care and cleaning can ensure you’re covered if issues arise. Generally, your product warranty will come from the manufacturer or distributor. Refer to your sales invoice for a complete statement of applicable warranties.
When It's Time for an Upgrade
When it’s time to refresh your space, you can rely on a ProSource Wholesale trade professional to get the job done. With access to over 50,000 products and ProSource Price Protection, you’re guaranteed great service at the best value. Whether you're upgrading flooring and countertops or creating the bathroom of your dreams, we've got you covered.
ProSource Wholesale showrooms have everything you need to keep your home looking its best. With the right products and proper care, your investment will last for years to come. Need help finding a trade professional? We’ve got you covered. Ready for the next step? Get started today by finding your local showroom or creating a free account.
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