Laminate is gaining momentum in popularity for flooring at home and in office spaces due to its practicality, reliability and beautiful exterior.
However, there are a number of nuances when cleaning, since the material is sensitive to high moisture and serious mechanical damage.
Let's consider which vacuum cleaners are best to choose for high-quality care of laminate flooring.
Let's turn to expert advice and consumer reviews.
Rating of the TOP 7 best washing vacuum cleaners for laminate flooring
Place | Model | Price |
#1 | ARNICA Merlin Pro | |
#2 | Thomas Multiclean X10 Parquet | |
#3 | Thomas TWIN T1 Aquafilter | |
#4 | Thomas Aqua Pet & Family | |
#5 | Philips FC6728/01 SpeedPro Aqua | |
#6 | Gorenje SVC 216 F(S/R) | |
#7 | KARCHER VC 2 |
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Thomas PARKETT PRESTIGE XT
The most gentle wet cleaning of parquet
The PARKETT PRESTIGE XT vacuum cleaner from the German brand Thomas has established itself as one of the best cleaning units that carefully removes dirt from the surface of the parquet without leaving behind wet marks or streaks. Excellent cleaning results are achieved thanks to the patented Aqua Stealth nozzle, designed specifically for wood floors.
And for the most effective dry cleaning of parquet and laminate flooring, the vacuum cleaner is equipped with a brush made of natural horsehair and felt. The bristles carefully remove small debris and dust stuck between the joints of the boards, and the felt polishes the surface, giving it shine and protecting it from external influences. Reviews
+ Pros Thomas PARKETT PRESTIGE XT
- copes well with the full cleaning of parquet floors - cleans and washes without damaging the coating;
- the presence of an Aqua-Box type aquafilter;
- there is a liquid collection function - a guarantee that after wet cleaning there will be no excess moisture left on the floor;
- electronic adjustment of suction power;
- fine filter;
- soft bumper;
- high maneuverability;
- nozzles for all types of surfaces - parquet, laminate, carpets, tiles, textiles plus an nozzle for hard-to-reach places with built-in CleanLight LED lighting;
- there is a compartment for storing accessories;
- The cleaning radius is 11 m.
— Cons of Thomas PARKETT PRESTIGE XT
- noisy – noise level is 81 dB;
- quite large dimensions - 318 x 485 x 306 (mm), which must be taken into account when cleaning small-sized housing;
- high price.
Due to the use of our own innovative technologies that raise home cleanliness to a whole new level, the price of the Thomas PARKETT PRESTIGE XT vacuum cleaner may exceed the cost of other cleaning models. However, it is worth considering that this unit most delicately cares for natural wood, which means that in the future you can save considerable money on repairing or replacing parquet boards.
Features of cleaning laminate flooring with a vacuum cleaner
Laminate is hard, so it can be cleaned both dry and wet.
For your information! Cleaning equipment can have various functions: collecting garbage, wiping dust, a combined option.
To avoid damaging the laminate surface, the vacuum cleaner must meet the following criteria :
- a light weight;
- high suction power;
- surface-safe wheels;
- availability of additional attachments;
- separate containers for clean and used water.
Laminate flooring cannot be wet frequently, so vacuum cleaners designed for dry cleaning are safer.
Washing models allow for more thorough cleaning - they wash the floor in a gentle manner.
But we should not forget that some types of laminate do not tolerate moisture at all. Therefore, for household needs, it is better to buy a device that operates in either dry or wet mode.
The type of laminate must be taken into account!
A few words must be said about the type of laminate that will be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner. The choice of a suitable device will depend on this factor.
Almost all types of laminate are more or less susceptible to moisture. Only expensive coatings are relatively resistant to its effects. However, they can withstand water on their surface only for a certain, very short time, and only due to the fact that the locks of the boards are treated with special wax.
Therefore, for some laminated coatings, wet cleaning is completely contraindicated, or is possible only with the help of a damp cloth. In this regard, it is necessary to clarify what marking the installed or purchased laminated coating has.
Laminate is produced using several technologies - CPL, DPR, DPL and HPL. Each type has its own characteristics, including resistance to moisture.
- DPL is a marking for laminate made using direct pressure technology. This type of coating is the most common, since 90% of the material is produced using this method. But it can be with a conventional laminating protective film or with a coating reinforced with aluminum oxide (corundum). Laminate with this marking is not highly resistant to moisture, so it can be subjected to dry or wet cleaning, carried out only with a well-wrung out cloth.
For laminated coatings that are not resistant to moisture, purchase a washing vacuum cleaner - it is hardly reasonable to carry out periodic wet cleaning with a damp, well-wrung out cloth.
- HPL is a laminate with more pronounced strength, produced by high pressure. In addition, during its manufacture, in addition to the laminating protective layer, kraft paper is added, laid in several layers. The technology used for its production increases the resistance of the coating to moisture. Therefore, wet cleaning of floors made of this laminate is quite acceptable, but not more than once a week.
- CPL is a laminate manufactured using the continuous pressure method. It has fairly high strength and resistance to moisture, due to the production technology and the presence of kraft paper in the upper and lower protective layers. This type of coating can be wet cleaned using either a damp soft cloth or a washing vacuum cleaner.
- DPR - this laminated coating is made using the direct printing method, that is, decorative paper is not glued to the boards, but the design is applied directly to their surfaces using photo printing. Laminate of this type can be wet cleaned, but also, of course, without “abusing” water.
- Laminate produced by the caching method, which consists of gluing a decorative coating to the surface of the boards without applying pressure or elevated temperature. The coating has low resistance to moisture, so it can be cleaned exclusively using a dry method or only using a special product.
What to look for when choosing a vacuum cleaner for laminate flooring?
Keep in mind! Before purchasing a vacuum cleaner for cleaning laminate flooring, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics of the model:
- Power. High suction power allows you to clean the surface more efficiently. The optimal option in this case is 200-250 W. This will ensure that the water dries quickly after washing.
- Volume of water container. When choosing a device designed for wet cleaning, you should make sure that the tank volume is enough to clean the entire room. Otherwise, you will have to stop the work process to change and add washing liquid. On average, about 1 liter is enough for one room.
- Filters. Not all filters completely capture dust. For better suction, you should choose units with a carbon and aqua filter.
- Brushes and nozzles. To gently clean laminate flooring, you need a wide brush with a lot of bristles. When cleaning wet, you will need a hard rubberized nozzle. With the help of additional components you can clean corners and hard-to-reach places.
- Wheels. Must be equipped with a rubber protector for easy and safe movement of the device on the laminate.
Criteria for correct selection
The cost of modern vacuum cleaners for cleaning laminate and tiles starts from 2-3 thousand rubles. But this does not mean that the equipment will last less than a year or break down with frequent use. Moreover, this does not threaten people who paid attention to:
- Suction power;
- Dust container capacity;
- Housing or telescopic tube material;
- Power consumption;
- Noise level;
- The package includes not only instructions and a warranty card, but also various attachments that make the device universal.
Also, we must not forget about the secondary characteristics; this will help expand the functionality and avoid purchasing a useless device. It is so important to take into account that some, even expensive models, do not automatically fold the network cable, which can create inconvenience when working with them.
Power consumption
The parameter is always indicated by the manufacturer on the device packaging. It is also present on the product itself, which will help you choose an economical model. It is important to know that power consumption indicates how much electrical energy is required for one hour of operation. Another value is suction power, it determines the effectiveness of a particular device. When purchasing a product for a one- or two-room apartment, it is important that the value is not lower than 350-400 W, otherwise the device will not cope with the load, which will bring disappointment.
Dust capacity
Standard models, which do not have advanced functionality and have average power, have a container with a volume of up to 1.5-2 liters (maybe less - 0.9 liters). This size is quite enough for cleaning small spaces. If a person lives in a large house or cleans an office, then the capacity should be larger. This will help prevent the tank from filling too quickly.
Noise level
This parameter is rarely indicated on the box, since the average value for all devices is almost the same and is 72-92 dB at a distance of 1.5 meters from the user. Of course, quieter devices are also sold, but their cost is 2-3 times higher, provided that the power of the devices is the same. The noise level affects the comfort of cleaning.
Quality of the housing and telescopic tube
The body and tube are one of the main elements. Therefore, it is important to pay special attention to their quality. It is desirable that the outer part is made of durable plastic that is resistant to scratches and minor damage. It is also welcome to have a durable handle that will allow you to move the product quickly and safely.
The telescopic tube improves convenience as it easily extends and locks into a comfortable position. When purchasing, it is important to pay attention to the material used. It is not recommended to buy plastic models, although their cost is lower, but their service life is not as long. It is better to pay attention to products where this element is made of light metal.
Additional equipment
When purchasing a vacuum cleaner, it is important that it has several attachments. Because they will help you clean any hard-to-reach place. It is important to understand that each element has one purpose.
For example, to perform regular dry cleaning, you will need a universal brush that has adjustable bristles. However, it may be useless because... If a person needs to carry out wet cleaning, this requires special attachments for washing the floor. Also included are nozzles with an adapter, which are perfect for fleecy surfaces and upholstered furniture. If desired, the user can buy some adapters on their own; they will help quickly deal with dirt on any surface.
To avoid buying a low-efficiency device, it is important to ask a consultant to test the product before purchasing. A good vacuum cleaner can easily cope with various contaminants and quickly suck up debris. Moreover, its mass should not be large so that a person can comfortably move with it.
Review of the best models
Let's consider the rating of the best models of devices for cleaning laminate floors, according to customer reviews, as well as in terms of price and quality ratio.
ARNICA Merlin Pro
A compact and lightweight vacuum cleaner is the ideal solution for safely cleaning laminate floors.
The model is quite powerful for its size. It is versatile and does a good job of cleaning laminate flooring and carpets.
Therefore, using this device you can clean all rooms and corridors.
It transforms into a handheld vacuum cleaner, thanks to which you can remove small crumbs and scattered debris.
Specifications:
- power consumption - 1000 W;
- type of cleansing - dry;
- dust collector volume - 0.8 l;
- dimensions - 10x49x11 cm;
- weight - 1.6 kg.
Advantages
- low cost;
- maneuverability;
- a light weight;
- high suction power;
- availability of additional attachments;
- versatility;
- Can be used as a handheld vacuum cleaner.
Flaws
- short cord for large rooms;
- gets very hot during operation;
- flimsy handle.
Thomas Multiclean X10 Parquet
A high-performance model equipped with an aquafilter with innovative Wet-Jet technology, which forms a water wall that retains dust.
The device has a convenient handle, thanks to which the water supply is regulated.
The set comes with a large number of attachments that facilitate the process of dry and wet cleaning.
This vacuum cleaner has received a certificate from the British Allergy Foundation.
Specifications:
- power consumption - 1700 W;
- type of cleansing - dry, wet;
- dust collector volume - aqua filter and bag 1.8 l;
- dimensions - 31.80×30.60×48.60 cm;
- weight - 8 kg.
Advantages
- good quality of wet cleaning;
- an extensive set of additional attachments;
- high-quality assembly;
- maneuverability;
- power button on the handle;
- does not heat up even during prolonged cleaning.
Flaws
- The tank is too small for wet cleaning;
- high price;
- difficult to maintain;
- heavy weight.
Thomas TWIN T1 Aquafilter
A powerful device with extensive parameters for complete cleaning of premises.
This vacuum cleaner can be used for dry and wet cleaning.
The large volume of the tank allows you to process large areas.
It copes well not only with laminate, but also with other coverings - carpets, tiles, linoleum. Effectively removes stains and spills.
Specifications:
- power consumption - 1600 W;
- type of cleaning - dry and wet;
- dust collector volume - aquafilter 4 l;
- dimensions - 48.30x32.40x35.30 cm;
- weight - 8.4 kg.
Advantages
- low cost;
- thoroughly cleans surfaces;
- after cleaning, the dust does not settle, all the dirt remains in the filter;
- easily replaces a mop and a rag;
- high suction power.
Flaws
- large dimensions and weight;
- short cord;
- a little noisy in operation;
- There are no control buttons on the handle.
Thomas Aqua Pet & Family
A multifunctional device that copes well with dust, dirt, and animal hair.
A maneuverable vacuum cleaner that allows for dry and wet cleaning.
Despite its size, it is maneuverable and easy to move.
The set includes a turbo brush, which will become an indispensable assistant in homes with laminate and carpeted floors.
Specifications:
- power consumption - 1700 W;
- type of cleansing - dry, wet;
- dust collector volume - aqua filter 1.8 l;
- dimensions - 31.80x30.60x48.60 cm;
- weight - 8 kg.
Advantages
- ideal cleaning quality;
- many attachments included;
- convenient design that is easy to maintain;
- maneuverability;
- high suction power;
- When the filter is dirty, the power does not decrease.
Flaws
- high price;
- The dust container fills up too quickly during wet cleaning;
- attachments are difficult to detach;
- The aqua filter must be washed after each use.
Philips FC6728/01 SpeedPro Aqua
Compact upright model with the useful function of a detachable handheld vacuum cleaner.
A special feature of the device is not only the ability to carry out wet cleaning, but also to work in autonomous mode - without connection to electricity and wires.
Its transformation into a manual unit becomes a pleasant addition during general cleaning.
Specifications:
- power consumption - 1200 W;
- type of cleaning - dry, wet;
- dust collector volume - 0.4 l;
- dimensions - 25x116x18 cm;
- weight - 2.1 kg.
Advantages
- a light weight;
- presence of lighting on the brush;
- quiet in operation;
- easy to maintain;
- the presence of a detachable hand-held vacuum cleaner, which helps to work in hard-to-reach places;
- Availability of additional nozzles and filters included.
Flaws
- high price;
- weak fastenings for the dust collector;
- the filter does not retain all debris;
- copes poorly with sand;
- The dust container volume is too small.
Gorenje SVC 216 F(S/R)
An excellent cordless unit with light weight and high suction power.
The device can operate offline for a long time (1 hour), which allows for several full cleaning processes.
Transforms into a handheld vacuum cleaner, allowing you to clean hard-to-reach places.
The power can be adjusted using the button on the handle.
Specifications:
- power consumption - 1200 W;
- type of cleansing - dry;
- dust collector volume - 0.6 l;
- dimensions - 26x118x17 cm;
- weight - 2.5 kg.
Advantages
- low price;
- stylish design;
- no connection to electricity or wires;
- compactness;
- easy to disassemble and clean;
- The kit includes a turbo brush.
Flaws
- does not clean up spilled liquids;
- there is only a paper filter, which is easy to damage;
- Doesn't handle large debris.
KARCHER VC 2
The device is distinguished by its hygienic filtration system - the bags are removed without contact with debris.
The model is very convenient for cleaning small spaces.
Cleans both soft and hard surfaces efficiently, thanks to several attachments included in the kit.
Copes well with cleaning hard-to-reach places.
Specifications:
- power consumption - 1100 W;
- type of cleaning - dry;
- dust collector volume - dust bag 0.5 l;
- dimensions - 28.80x24.90x43.50 cm;
- weight - 5.2 kg.
Advantages
- maneuverability;
- low cost;
- power adjustment;
- quiet in operation;
- convenient handle for transportation.
Flaws
- short wire;
- you need to buy additional bags for collecting garbage;
- unreliable design.
IROBOT Braava 390T
High-quality floor cleaning without human intervention
Braava 390T is the latest generation robot vacuum cleaner developed by the famous American company IROBOT. With the help of this almost spacecraft, you can not only not worry about the cleanliness and safety of your laminate, but also practically not take any part in the cleaning process.
This miracle of technology runs on a battery, the charge of which lasts for as long as 4 hours. After this, the vacuum cleaner requires recharging (for this purpose, a turbo base is provided with the vacuum cleaner), and after 2 hours the hardworking machine is ready to work again. Reviews
+ Pros of IROBOT Braava 390T
- mobility, no wires;
- the ability to efficiently process dirty laminate flooring under furniture, radiators and in any other corner of the apartment where it is difficult to reach with a brush of a conventional device;
- built-in navigation system, with the help of which the robot creates the optimal route, avoiding all obstacles in its path;
- compactness, light weight;
- cleaning is carried out almost silently - it will not disturb even at night;
- original appearance.
— Cons of IROBOT Braava 390T
- the garbage is not sucked out, but is collected on a special napkin, which is why sometimes preliminary dry cleaning of the floor is required;
- To wash laminate over a large area or when cleaning several rooms, additional equipment with navigation cubes is required.
Despite the innovative solutions used in the model, the Braava 390T robot vacuum cleaner is unlikely to cope with high-quality cleaning of an overly dirty floor. However, in the form of a home “polisher” that will regularly keep the laminate flooring clean, this is a completely suitable option.
conclusions
When choosing a vacuum cleaner for cleaning laminate flooring, you need to pay special attention to the following characteristics:
- power - the higher this parameter, the better the surface is cleaned;
- dust collector volume - large volume allows for long-term cleaning;
- the presence of an aquafilter - it traps all dust and dirt;
- type of cleaning - devices with dry and wet cleaning functions make it possible to abandon the use of a mop and a rag.
Operating principle of the unit
Under high pressure, water sprays out of the washing nozzle, then it is sucked back into the tank, but along with the dirt.
There are models with steam treatment that clean the surface thanks to high temperature. But this option is more suitable for tiles and carpeting. And for a laminate, such a unit will be harmful even in the case of the most resistant coatings. The fact is that steam causes wood to swell and quickly deteriorate, so a steam cleaning vacuum cleaner is not suitable for laminate flooring.
Thus, a simple vacuum cleaner is quite suitable for laminate flooring. The main thing is to choose the right nozzles and choose the right model. The instructions for the electrical cleaning device must state that it is suitable for wet cleaning of laminate flooring.
Vacuum cleaner criteria for laminate flooring:
- Significant suction power: from 450 aW.
- Nozzle for laminate.
- Minimal moisture residue on the floor after cleaning.
When choosing a model of a washing vacuum cleaner for laminate and tiles, give preference to units from popular brands that have proven themselves only from the best side.
What type of vacuum cleaner should you choose?
Any type of vacuum cleaner can clean the laminate surface. However, everyone has their own “buts”:
- A traditional unit with an affordable price is distinguished by its usual maneuverability and accuracy in terms of impact on the coating. But dry cleaning cannot compare with the efficiency and quality of wet cleaning.
- Washing vacuum cleaners are considered the optimal, if not ideal, purchase for laminate floors. With these multi-functional machines, you can effectively create and easily maintain perfect surface cleanliness. But such vacuum cleaners are large, heavy and expensive.
- Robots. Small, maneuverable “tablets” also take over the function of wet cleaning. They cope with the assigned tasks according to the drawn up schedule (program). But there should be no obstacles to their movement. And the main “but” is the very high price of compact vacuum cleaners.
External processing of parquet boards
Methods for cleaning floorboards largely depend on the characteristics of its outer covering:
- The situation is easiest if the elements are varnished. It has the property of forming a film that reliably protects wood from moisture, so this parquet can be cleaned using water;
- Wet cleaning is absolutely not suitable for waxed boards: they are cleaned with wax compounds or solvents;
- Oil-coated boards should not be washed with copious amounts of water, which is due to the nature of these coatings: they do not form a film like varnish, but penetrate between the fibers of the wood and tend to gradually wash out of it with repeated wet cleaning. Therefore, such a board should only be wiped with a soft damp cloth along the direction of the fibers of the top layer. This should be done only in those contaminated areas that cannot be removed by sweeping or cleaning with a dry cloth. For the above reason, it is recommended to periodically renew the oil layer.
Example of a vacuum cleaner for cleaning parquet
Fastidious coating
Water is the main enemy of laminate, since the coating consists of wood and a polymer coating that protects against dirt and moisture. The space between the seams can be flooded with water, which will lead to swelling of the wood and will be impossible to restore. There are special putties for laminate joints. Before application, the floor is wiped with a special mop to remove excess moisture and degreased. Then the mastic is placed in the crack and dries for 15 minutes. The protective layer is periodically renewed. Mastic protects the floor from unwanted moisture and prevents germs and dust from spreading out from the cracks.
Any type of vacuum cleaner is suitable for dry cleaning of laminate flooring.
When choosing a floor covering, many people ask whether laminate flooring can be washed. This floor is wiped with a slightly damp cloth and wiped dry.
How to choose a compact vacuum cleaner?
Before purchasing, you need to compare the available models in terms of functionality and technical characteristics.
The quality of cleaning and ease of use are influenced by the following parameters:
- operating modes;
- dependence on the power source;
- power;
- weight;
- filtration system;
- design features of the handle;
- equipment.
Operating modes. Many models perform floor washing in addition to dry cleaning. Some upright vacuum cleaners are capable of treating surfaces with steam. The choice depends on personal preferences and financial capabilities.
Multifunctional automated mops are more expensive. The presence of an aquafilter for wet cleaning leads to an increase in the size and weight of the vacuum cleaner
Power supply. There are two options: operation from the mains or from batteries.
The advantages of autonomous devices are obvious:
- no need to adapt to the location of the outlet;
- possibility of cleaning outside the house – car, gazebo, etc.;
- there is no need to constantly monitor the location of the wire.
However, there are also disadvantages. Cordless models are more expensive, and the cycle of one cleaning is limited in time.
Power. An important indicator that largely determines the quality of the harvesting process
When choosing, you need to pay attention to the traction force - suction power, not consumption. For household devices, 250-300 W is sufficient
Wireless models often have lower performance than their cable counterparts. You should start from the type of covering in the house - high power is needed for cleaning high-pile carpets
Weight. The mass of a vacuum cleaner is determined by its components. Models with an aquafilter cannot be light due to the presence of a water tank; their weight is more than 4-5 kg. The weight of vertical devices for dry cleaning is from 2 kg. Here you have to choose what is more important – ease of use or functionality.
Filtration. Many manufacturers equip the dust collector with filter elements. Barriers prevent dust from getting back into the room. Units with HEPA filtration show a good effect, ensuring the retention of up to 98% of the smallest debris and plant spores.
Handle design. The rule here is that the thinner the nozzle and body of the vacuum cleaner, the better it will be able to clean hard-to-reach areas under furniture. 2-in-1 units with a hand-held mini-vacuum cleaner on the handle do not have good cross-country ability in this regard. Models with a thin handle will cope with the task better.
An interesting solution is a bendable handle. The position can be changed to make cleaning easier or to store the vacuum cleaner in a compact pantry or closet
Additionally, you should familiarize yourself with the equipment included with the device. It is optimal if, in addition to the main brush, there is a crevice nozzle. The remaining brushes are selected according to the situation - taking into account the type of floor covering and the need to clean furniture.
In addition to the indicated parameters, the noise level, cable length, and the ability to adjust speeds are assessed.