After Care: Cleaning Vinyl Floors

Luxury vinyl flooring has truly been a game changer in the flooring world. With newer advancements and constant research into the material, LV flooring has grown in leaps and bounds. The cherry on top is that it is surprisingly easy and inexpensive to clean and maintain.

Let’s look at ways to keep your LV floors looking great for years.

General cleaning

Can you believe a broom and mop is all you need? We weren’t joking when we said it’s easy. For general cleaning, simply use your regular microfibre broom or vacuum once a week to sweep away debris and dirt. Right after installation too, it is important to sweep the area since grit is extremely damaging to vinyl.

For mopping, water will usually suffice. But remember to not drench your floors. Although LV floors are usually 100% waterproof, it is best to use water sparingly – especially if you’ve opted for a glue-down vinyl since it can loosen the adhesive bond. A mop that’s just a bit damp should work.

If you wish to add some more TLC to your cleaning routine, you could use a mild cleanser designed specifically for vinyl floors.

Once done, ensure your floor is completely dry by going over it with a soft dry towel.

Remember: Sweep immediately when you notice dirt, before it gets ground in to your floor.

Taking care of stains

Did you know that you could use simple household items to wipe off stains? That’s how easy-going LV flooring is.

For tough stains, you can use bicarbonate of soda mixed with warm water. Especially in the case of slightly acidic stains, like lemonade or ketchup, this works wonders. Rub in with a soft towel till the stain lifts and then wipe it off with a damp, soft towel.

More stubborn stains, like greasy gravies, wine, or sugary drinks could be wiped off with a small amount of bleach diluted with water. Just rub it in with a gentle, circular motion. When the stains are completely removed, simply wipe off the area with a damp cloth or mop.

In bathrooms, where soap scum threatens to mar the beauty of your floors, you can use apple cider vinegar. Mix one cup of vinegar with hot water and mop your floor with the solution. Rinse the mop frequently with clean, hot water in another bucket. If you have hairspray buildup on your vinyl floor, just shampoo it away.

For stains from items with colour pigments like lipstick, crayons or paints, apply rubbing alcohol with a soft-bristle brush. Nail polish stains can be lifted off with your nail polish remover.

Remember: Wipe off stains as soon as they occur to make them less tough.

Make your own cleaner

Although commercial vinyl floor cleaners are readily available, you can save up by going DIY. All you need is apple cider vinegar or distilled white vinegar mixed with around 4 ltrs. of hot water.

The acidity in vinegar has the ability to lift off stains gently while keeping the shine on your floors. Plus, it leaves no residue behind.

For extra power, you could add a few drops of liquid dishwashing soap to the water and vinegar mixture. But remember to mop first with the soap mixture and then mop a second time with just water and vinegar, so the soapy residue is taken care of. Besides, this solution is kid and pet-friendly, while being eco-friendly.

Hate the smell of vinegar? No worries. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil into the mix and your floors will look and smell fresh.

Ensuring it stays clean and looks great

• LV floors do not need any kind of wax or polish. However, if you do wish to add more shine to your LV floors, just put a few drops of baby oil to the vinegar and water solution.
• Prevention is better than cure. Always remember to use doormats so that dirt and grime do not enter your home.
• A cardinal rule to remember – never use abrasive or rough cleaning materials or cleansers on your LV floors. Mild and gentle is best. This means no steel wool, no harsh detergents and no ammonia-based cleaning solutions. Always look for cleaners that are compatible with your LV flooring and remember to check the label thoroughly.
• Use felt pads for all your furniture to prevent damage from too much dragging.

That’s about it, really.

With just a few simple cleaning routines, your LV floors could take on all kinds of challenges and still look great for years. For more on repairs, you could look up our post here.