Vinyl flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is attractive, durable, affordable and easy to maintain. However, vinyl floors can become dirty and stained over time if they are not cleaned properly. While vinyl flooring is known for being easy to clean this is especially easy when you know what you’re doing!
When you purchase vinyl flooring, you don’t get an instruction manual telling you how to clean it. This is something that you have to figure out yourself.
Cleaning vinyl can be quick and easy, and it requires minimal upkeep. Because it is water-resistant and scratch resistant, there are lots of different remedies that you use to keep it in tip-top shape.
Of course, you can always call a cleaning business but if you’re wondering how to clean vinyl plank flooring yourself, keep reading.
How to Clean Vinyl Flooring
Here are some simple ways to keep the vinyl flooring in your home nice and clean.
Vacuum or dustpan and brush
Often, a simple vacuum is all it takes to clean up the dirt and dust on your vinyl flooring.
Be careful not to scratch the vinyl flooring with the edges of the vacuum and avoid using carpet attachments. These attachments aren’t designed to glide smoothly across vinyl, so they could cause scratches and tears.
You could also use a traditional dustpan and brush to sweep up loose debris and keep your vinyl floors looking fresh. Be careful not to use a brush with hard bristles that could damage the vinyl surface.
Mop or damp cloth
Vinyl flooring doesn’t absorb liquids, meaning you can use a wet mop or cloth to clean it. Remember that spillages and stains are best cleaned when they’re fresh and haven’t had a chance to dry onto the vinyl.
Whether you’re wiping up food spillages or muddy paw prints, you can use a combination of warm water and cleaning products. After a good scrub, your vinyl floors will be completely stain-free.
Be careful not to mop too often, as this can cause your vinyl flooring to wear away more quickly. It can also dull the vinyl and weaken its adhesive properties. Although vinyl is water resistant, it’s not 100% waterproof, so frequent mopping can damage its deeper layers.
Cleaning chemicals
There is a wide range of chemicals that are appropriate for use on vinyl flooring, including bleach (ideally, bleach that is diluted with water) or alcohol for tough stain removal.
When you’re using strong cleaning chemicals, always take the necessary health and safety precautions. Avoid using an abrasive sponge or scourer, as this could scratch and permanently damage your vinyl floors.
Dos and Don’ts of Cleaning Vinyl Flooring
Here is a quick summary of the things you should and shouldn’t do when you’re cleaning vinyl floors.
Dos
- Clean up food, drink, grease, and oil spillages as quickly as possible to prevent them from drying into the material
- Cover the bottom of your furniture, such as sofa legs or refrigerator corners, when you’re moving it around on vinyl flooring
- Place rugs or mats down on vinyl flooring in areas of your home that receive a lot of foot traffic
- Use doormats by the entrances and exits of rooms with vinyl flooring in your home
Don’ts
- Don’t mop vinyl flooring too frequently
- Avoid soaking your vinyl floors
- Don’t use abrasive scourers or sponges
- Avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners on your vinyl flooring
