Surface cleaning
How to clean vinyl floors
Are you looking for a way to maintain your beautiful vinyl floors? Well, look no further!
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know to keep household surface like new. From the types of products and materials to use to the cleaning process, we’ll cover all the basics of vinyl floor maintenance.
So get ready to learn how to clean vinyl floors like a pro!
What are vinyl floors
Vinyl floors are a type of resilient flooring made from synthetic materials, typically polyvinyl chloride (PVC). They are designed to mimic the look of natural materials like wood or stone while offering durability, moisture resistance, and easy maintenance.
Other surface types
Do you have a different surface? Read our blog posts on how to clean granite surface, cement tiles, glass tiles, laminate floor, hardwood floor, terracotta, cork surface, metal tiles, porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles, limestone, grout, soapstone, marble, travertine, slate or quartz.
Benefits of having vinyl floors
Vinyl flooring is a great choice for your home. It comes in stylish designs, is made of durable material, and is pet-friendly.
Vinyl is also a great choice for those with allergies. It’s an eco-friendly material that helps to reduce dust and other allergens in the home.
Its waterproof and stain-resistant material make it easy to clean and maintain, saving you time and energy. Vinyl floors are also available in a variety of colors, textures, patterns, and designs to match any home décor.
Disadvantages of vinyl floors
Most notably, it’s not as durable as other hard flooring surfaces, such as tile or hardwood.
Vinyl is prone to scratches, discoloration, and heat damage. Grease and other liquids can cause stains which can be difficult to remove. It’s also vulnerable to buckling when exposed to too much moisture.
How often should you clean vinyl floors
To keep your hard flooring looking its best, regularly give it a once-over with a soft-bristled mop to keep it shining like a diamond. Give a deeper clean every 2 weeks.
How to clean vinyl floors
- Gather your products and materials: Broom or Vacuum, Mop, Microfiber cloth, Mild detergent or vinyl floor cleaner, Warm water, Bucket, Soft-bristle brush or scrubber, Rubber gloves, Protective pads or furniture sliders, Non-abrasive sponge or cleaning cloth, Floor polish or wax (optional)
- Clear the Area: Start by removing any furniture or obstacles from the area you plan to clean. This ensures easy access to the entire floor surface and prevents any hindrance during the cleaning process. Remember to use protective pads or furniture sliders to prevent scratches when moving heavy furniture.
- Sweep or Vacuum: Using a broom or vacuum cleaner, thoroughly sweep or vacuum the floor to eliminate loose dirt, dust, and debris. Pay attention to corners and hard-to-reach areas to ensure a comprehensive clean.
- Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent or a vinyl floor cleaner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate cleaning solution and avoid using abrasive chemicals that could damage the vinyl.
- Mop the Floor: Dip the mop into the cleaning solution, wring out any excess liquid, and start mopping the vinyl floor. Work in small sections, moving the mop back and forth in gentle motions. Pay special attention to any stubborn stains, using a soft-bristle brush or sponge for gentle scrubbing if needed.
- Apply Floor Polish or Wax: To enhance the shine and protect your vinyl floor, you can apply a floor polish or wax according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is optional but can add an extra layer of beauty and longevity to your floors.
How not to clean the vinyl floor
Avoid using abrasive tools such as steel wool to clean your vinyl floors as this can leave scratches and damage the finish. A better option is to use a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution to gently clean the floor.
It’s also important to not overwet the floor when cleaning as this can cause the vinyl to warp and curl, resulting in costly repairs.
What chemicals should you avoid on vinyl surface
- Harsh abrasives: Avoid using abrasive cleaners, scrub brushes, or scouring pads on vinyl surfaces, as they can scratch or dull the surface.
- Solvents: Strong solvents like acetone, paint thinners, or nail polish removers should be avoided as they can dissolve or damage the vinyl surface.
- Bleach: While bleach is a powerful disinfectant, it can cause discoloration or damage to vinyl surfaces. It’s best to avoid using bleach or bleach-based products on vinyl.
- Ammonia-based cleaners: Ammonia can weaken the vinyl surface over time, so it’s advisable to avoid cleaners containing ammonia.
- Oil-based cleaners: Avoid using oil-based cleaners or polishes on vinyl surfaces, as they can leave behind a residue or make the surface slippery.
How to maintain vinyl floors
- To avoid causing scratches and to protect the edges of the floor, use protective mats and furniture glides on furniture.
- Make sure not to drench the floor in water and dry it quickly after mopping, as prolonged moisture can damage it in the long term.
- For long term care, always use a gentle cleaner and mop to avoid scratching the surface.
- Lastly, regularly vacuuming and sweeping your vinyl floors can help to remove dirt and debris and keep your floor looking its best.
- Use a doormat to help keep dirt and debris outside.
- Shampoo away hair spray and other sticky substances with a mild cleanser.
- Learn low-impact cleaning techniques to avoid damaging the vinyl.
- Rinse well to remove all soap and residue.
- Preserve the sheen of your vinyl flooring by occasionally waxing or polishing it.
- Outfit your furniture and large appliances with protective “feet” to reduce scratches and dents.
- Forgo rolling casters on furniture and large appliances, as they can cause deep gouges.
- Before big moves, put appliances and other heavy items on a plywood path to prevent indentations and scratches.
How to take care of scuffs
To keep your vinyl floor looking its best, it’s important to address any scuffs or stains quickly, as they can become more difficult to remove the longer they stay.
To start, always make sure to remove any residue from the surface of the vinyl floor with a damp mop or cloth. This will help to avoid any further damage to the floor.
When dealing with stains, pre-treat the spot with a stain remover or cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it with a soft-bristled brush or cloth. Once it’s clean, rinse the area with water and dry it with a towel or cloth.
How to clean vinyl floors with vinegar
Caring for your vinyl flooring with vinegar is an easy and effective way to keep it looking its best! To create a vinegar solution for cleaning your vinyl floors, you’ll need to decide which type of vinegar to use.
White distilled vinegar is the most common and is safe to use on vinyl floors. Apple cider vinegar is also safe to use, but it may leave a slight odor behind. For safety, always dilute the vinegar with water, using a 1:1 ratio.
If you’re concerned about the odor, you can add a few drops of essential oil to the solution. When cleaning your floors, always use a mop that is made of microfiber or a soft cloth. This will help to prevent any scratches or damage to the vinyl.
Be sure to rinse the floor with water after cleaning to remove any remaining vinegar residue. The vinegar solution should be effective in removing dirt and residue from the vinyl flooring, leaving it looking clean and shiny.
Conclusion
Congratulations on discovering the best methods to clean vinyl floors! We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights. If you ever need professional assistance or have any inquiries, we’re here to help.
Contact us today and let’s bring back the brilliance to your vinyl floors!
