The first and foremost enemy of laminate floors is the use of steam mops. Even if your flooring has a waterproof warranty, you can never use a steam mop for your flooring. In fact, steam mops are always surplus to requirement with laminate flooring. Most quality laminate floors are coated in a special protective layer which minimizes the collection of dirt and grime. Most laminates should clean easily with a micro fiber mop and the correct cleaning solution. 

Cream polishes should never be used on your laminate flooring or any plank style flooring for that matter. This type of product will build up in the grooves and joins of your flooring causing all sorts of cosmetic and performance problems. 

Harsh chemicals or stains can cause a disruption to the sheen and feel of your laminate flooring surface. Be careful when using products to clean/treat your floor that are not recommended by the flooring manufacturer. Failing to adhere to such recommendations can easily aggravate your warranty. 

Abrasive scrubbing systems and brushes should be avoided. There are deep clean options - see later in article.

Excessive Water should be avoided - the moisture level left after you have cleaned your laminate floor should be able to air dry itself in approximately 2 minutes. This means that what mode of cleaning you choose should only leave a slight film of moisture. IMPORTANT NOTE: A clean which requires any moisture at all should only be carried out when absolutely necessary. Moisture based cleaning of laminate flooring should be kept to a minimum to avoid over-washing. These points are key when you are looking to maintain your flooring warranty. 

Be careful before you clean your laminate flooring with water, check the joins in your flooring are all tightly closed. Sometimes flooring can come apart due to fluctuations in climate. If the joins are slightly open, moisture can seep down into the joins and cause water damage. It is usually a simple fix to close these joins up. A flooring installer will have the correct tools and will be able to sort your flooring out fast and with a minimum charge. This will ensure your flooring lasts the period you would expect it to.