Floor Care Best Practices

General Guidelines

  • Use felt pads or furniture caps under furniture to prevent scratching.
  • Place entry mats to reduce dirt, grit, and moisture.
  • Clean spills immediately—avoid letting moisture sit.
  • Always use floor-type specific, pH-neutral cleaners.

Carpet

  • Vacuum weekly with a manufacturer-approved vacuum for cut-pile or loop carpet.
  • Have carpets professionally cleaned every 18–24 months using hot water extraction.
  • Keep receipts, as they are required for warranty claims.
  • Blot stains with a clean cloth—never scrub.

Solid Hardwood

  • Sweep or dust mop regularly.
  • Use only pH-neutral hardwood cleaners.
  • Avoid steam mops, vinegar, and excess water.
  • Maintain indoor humidity between 45–55% year-round.
  • Replace felt pads on chairs when they become worn.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) & Laminate

  • Vacuum or dry sweep to remove dirt and dust.
  • Clean with non-rinsing, pH-neutral cleaners approved for LVP/laminate.
  • Do not use steam mops or wet mops.
  • Use furniture pads and minimize UV exposure to reduce fading.

Ceramic & Porcelain Tile

  • Vacuum or sweep to remove loose dirt.
  • Clean with mild, pH-neutral tile cleaners—avoid acidic products.
  • Spot clean grout and reseal as required (typically every 6–12 months depending on builder specifications).
  • Protect high-traffic areas with mats or rugs.

Steam Mops: Use with Caution

  • Not recommended for hardwood, LVP, or laminate floors.
  • Steam can cause warping, swelling, or delamination.
  • Use of steam mops may void manufacturer warranties.
  • Always refer to the flooring manufacturer’s guidelines before use.

Vacuums: Choose Wisely

  • Carpet: Use vacuums with adjustable height and a rotating brush.
  • Hardwood, LVP, and Laminate: Use soft-bristle, suction-only vacuums (no beater bars).
  • Avoid vacuums with hard plastic wheels on wood or vinyl surfaces.

Warranty Requirements

  • Most flooring warranties require:
  • Proper, regular maintenance.
  • Use of approved products and equipment.
  • Proof of professional carpet cleaning.
  • Be sure to save all cleaning receipts and documentation for warranty claims.

Disclaimer

Costen provides this guide as general floor care information only. It is not a substitute for the detailed instructions, product specifications, or warranty requirements issued by your flooring manufacturer. Because flooring products vary in material, finish, and care recommendations, always review and follow the specific maintenance guidelines provided by your manufacturer. Failure to do so may result in damage or voiding of warranties. Costen is not liable for any damage, wear, or claims resulting from the use or misuse of the information in this guide. This document should be used as a supplemental reference alongside official manufacturer instrucions.