Routine care differs by material, but the general rule across nearly all flooring types is the same: sweep or vacuum regularly to keep grit from scratching the surface, and clean up spills promptly rather than letting them sit.

Hardwood should be cleaned with a manufacturer-approved hardwood cleaner, not a wet mop — standing water is one of the more common ways hardwood gets damaged after installation. Laminate follows a similar rule: damp, not wet. Vinyl and tile are more forgiving of moisture and can generally handle a normal damp mop without issue.

Avoid steam mops on hardwood and laminate specifically, since the heat and moisture can damage the finish or the core material over time. Beyond that, most manufacturers include specific care instructions with the product — worth holding onto after installation, since warranty coverage sometimes depends on following them.