Can this floor be saved?

Most flooring comes with some specifics on maintenance dos and don'ts (don't use ammonia-based cleaners on wood, say). How do you remove chewing gum, wax, and other messes? Here are our expert tips:

Gum and wax

On wood, cover the stain with a sealed ice pack to make it brittle enough to break off in pieces. Do the same on plastic laminate, vinyl, or linoleum, but be especially careful when scraping it off (try a plastic scraper or credit card). And on any flooring, finish the job by wiping the area clean with a damp cloth to get up any residue.

Oil, paint, marker, lipstick, ink, and tar

On vinyl, use a clean cloth dampened with warm water and detergent; on wood and plastic laminates, use some nail-polish remover. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steel wool, and heavy scouring on any flooring.

Minor scratches and chips

Some hardwood manufacturers offer color-blended filler. If the finish is worn, buff or lightly sand away the damage, then refinish as usual. But heavily damaged pieces might need to be replaced, especially plastic laminate, which can't be sanded or refinished (the damaged piece will have to be chiseled out and a new one inserted). On all floors, try a color-matched felt marker for small scratches.

Scuff marks

An eraser might remove shallow marks on all floors. But be sure to test it on a hidden area first.