Vinyl might be tough and durable, but like any flooring, it will need regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it in good condition. However, it’s helpful to know what is most effective for cleaning it properly and what should be avoided to preserve it for as long as possible. If you’re wondering what you can use to clean luxury vinyl floors, this guide will explain everything you need to know.
What is the Best Way to Clean Luxury Vinyl?
Sweep, Vacuuming or Dust Mopping Daily
Sweeping, vacuuming or dry mopping with a microfiber mop should ideally be done every day or at least every few days to remove dirt and other particles on the floor to minimize the risk of scratches. While vacuuming, make sure to be gentle and use a brush head to avoid marking up the flooring as you go. Even though vinyl is tough, it’s still vulnerable – especially with staining liquids like wine or coffee. So, if something spills onto the floor, clean it up immediately.
Mop with a Cleaning Solution Weekly
There are a few different options when it comes to using a cleaning solution. One of the easiest and most effective is a simple combination of warm water and a few drops of dish soap. This will act as an effective degreaser. However, you could also choose a designated vinyl floor cleaner or even a vinegar solution with one cup of distilled vinegar per gallon of water. If you decide to use a commercial cleaner, double-check that it is safe to use on luxury vinyl and doesn’t contain any harsh ingredients like ammonia. Mix up your cleaning solution into a buck of warm water, then thoroughly squeeze out any excess water from the mop before you begin. The goal is to have the mop just damp enough rather than wet. Then mop away, focusing on gently scrubbing those high traffic areas.
Use Baking Soda for Stains
If you notice any stubborn grease, food or scuff marks as you’re mopping that won’t seem to lift with the dish soap, try using a mixture of baking soda and water until it forms a paste and place it over the stain. Leave it for a minute or two before gently scrubbing it away. For serious stains caused by lipstick or ink, you may need to revert to rubbing alcohol.
What Should You Not Use on Luxury Vinyl Flooring?
Avoid using any cleaning products that contain harsh ingredients, even in standard mopping cleaners, since they can often leave a film on the vinyl surface. Also, steer clear of any solvent-based polishes, liquid or paste wax, steel wool, or stiff-bristle brushes. Any ammonia-based cleaners can actually cause cracks to form. When it comes to vinyl floor maintenance, your best and safest bet is to make your own cleaning solution.
How Often Should I Clean the Floors?
We recommend dry mopping with a microfiber mop each day. For deeper cleans, it’s best to mop with a cleaning solution at least once each week to remove dirt and stains from the vinyl, especially along high traffic areas like hallways and stairways or if you have children and pets.
If you need a new floor installed in your home, our experts at Rome Flooring can help! We are Ottawa’s premium flooring company and have been assisting residents with their flooring needs for over 40 years. Whether you’re looking for new hardwood, luxury vinyl, tiles, or if you need your current hardwood refinished, we can help! Contact us today to learn more or to get started!