Will Acetone Damage the Laminate Floor? (5 Alternatives to Acetone)

Acetone is a powerful tough stain remover.

It can tackle tough stains such as paint, nail polish, oil films, dyes, and flooring adhesives. Plus, you can use it on all types of floors.

Additionally, it does not have the same strong odor as paint thinner or other chemicals used for the same purpose.

Many of us look for effective solutions. The question often arises: Will acetone damage the laminate floor?

Acetone can be a double-edged sword when it comes to laminate floors. On one hand, it’s a powerful solvent that can remove tough stains like nail polish or adhesive residues.

On the other hand, it has the potential to cause damage to the protective layer of the laminate.

Additionally, acetone is a highly flammable substance. And its fumes can be harmful if not used in a well-ventilated area.

So, it is advisable to take some precautionary measures and use it few as possible. But only when necessary after running out of options or if another solution fails to work.

Continue reading this article and learn more about using acetone on laminate flooring. Also, we have listed the safest and most effective alternatives to acetone.

What is Acetone?

Acetone is a common household chemical that you might have in your home right now. It is a colorless and clear liquid organic solvent.

Also, it is highly flammable and evaporates easily in the air. Additionally, it is known as propanone, 2-propanone, beta-ketoprofen, and dimethyl ketone.

It is mostly used to dissolve oil, paint, markers, nail polish, and adhesives. So, it is considered one of the most effective cleaning products for any floor.

Acetone – Uses and Applications 

You can use acetone to clean paint, oil, ink, and permanent marker marks on laminate floors. If necessary, you can rub the area with a moist cloth after sponging the area with acetone.

  • Nail Polish: Use acetone and a clean paper towel to remove nail polish spills. Scrape the polish off with a shovel until there are no visible traces of nail polish left.
  • Glue: To remove glue residue from your floor, immediately wipe it off with acetone. Then put vinegar and water in a bucket and scrub the floor with a shovel until all the glue is removed.
  • Marks Left by Scuffs: Acetone is also useful in removing rubber marks left behind. Apply some acetone to a clean towel and rub the marks until they disappear.

Will Acetone Damage the Laminate Floor?

In moderation, yes. For occasional spot cleaning. Acetone can be effective in tackling tough stains like ink or adhesive residue.

Acetone is a strong solvent. Prolonged exposure or excessive use can damage the protective layer of your laminate floor.

This protective layer is crucial for keeping your floor resistant to scratches, moisture, and general wear and tear. If damaged, your laminate floor may lose its luster and become more susceptible to problems.

Yet, if you want to use acetone it’s crucial to dilute it properly. Apply it sparingly to avoid harming the protective coating.

Here are some practical tips for using acetone on laminate floors:

  1. Mix acetone with water to create a milder solution. A 1:1 ratio is often recommended to reduce its strength.
  2. Before applying acetone to a visible area. Perform a spot test in an inconspicuous corner to ensure it doesn’t cause any adverse effects.
  3. Use acetone for quick spot cleaning rather than extended scrubbing sessions. Apply and wipe off promptly to cut exposure.
  4. Use a soft cloth or sponge for application to avoid scratching the surface. Gently blot or wipe the stained area.

What Cleaners Are Safe For Laminate Floors?

Homemade Cleaning Solutions

White Vinegar, Rubbing Alcohol, Essential Oil, and Water

  1. Mix a 1:1:1 (equal proportion) of white vinegar, rubbing alcohol, and filtered water in a spray bottle. Then, add 5 drops of any essential oil available.
  2. Mix the ingredients by shaking them. Once you are done, spray the mixture on the stain. Let it sit for some moment to weaken the stain.
  3. And, gently work on the stain with a soft toothbrush bristle until the stain disappears.
  4. Use a damp lint-free cloth to rinse the spot, and immediately dry it with a dry cloth without lint.

Yet, if the stain is not that tough, you can apply white vinegar and water. Plus, make sure you mix them in equal proportions. Do not use white vinegar directly.

This solution helps remove grime without harming your laminate floors.

See Also: Is vinegar and water a good laminate floor cleaner?

Ice

Ice is also effective when dealing with chewing gum and wax stains. That has hardened the laminate flooring, including carpets.

Because it hardens and reduces both wax and chewing gum stickiness. But, remember, do not apply the ice cubes directly to the stain.

Please place them in the bags and then apply them on top of the stain until it stiffens the stains. Then, gently scrape the spot, careful not to scratch the floor.

Also See: How to Remove Candle Wax from Laminate Flooring? (6 Easy Steps)

Rubbing Alcohol 

Rubbing alcohol is also the strongest solvent. That is both friendly and effective at cleaning tough stains on laminate flooring. It works well on laminate flooring without damaging the protective coating.

That’s because rubbing alcohol is neither acidic nor alkaline in pH. It makes an ideal ingredient in your homemade cleaning solution.

If you want to work on laminate flooring with rubbing alcohol, follow the steps below:   

  1. Moisten a lint-free cloth with rubbing alcohol solvent. 
  2. Place the cloth on the stained surface and let it sit for about 5 minutes.  
  3. Wipe until the stain or discoloration disappears.

Goo Gone

Goo Gone is like a superhero for sticky situations. When you want to deal with adhesive or gooey stains on the floor, the best and safest alternative.

Also, it does not damage the floor and its finish. It comes with a safe surface cleaning procedure to provide seamless stain removal.

It works on various surfaces, but always check if it’s safe for the material you’re dealing with.

Must See: The Best Way to Use Goo Gone on Laminate Flooring

Bona Tile And Laminate Floor Cleaner

Bona Tile and Laminate Floor Cleaner is like a best friend for your floors.

This cleaner is designed to clean both laminate and tile flooring. It cleans up dirt, and spills, and leaves your floors looking shiny without any dull residue.

Also, it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals, making it friendly for laminate floors. But still, do not use Bona Wood Floor Cleaner because it is not meant for laminate floors.

Read More on Laminate Floors

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