How to Clean Vinyl Flooring

Do you have recently installed Vinyl Flooring and are looking for ways to keep your floors clean? Well, this cleaning and maintenance guide by Award Carpets Gold Coast will help make keeping clean stress free. Cleaning vinyl flooring is straight forward and can be done effectively with minimal effort.

Cleaning Vinyl Floors

To keep your vinyl floors looking their best, follow these simple steps:

Daily Cleaning: Less is More

Vinyl flooring simplifies your cleaning routine. Daily maintenance requires nothing more than a gentle sweep with a soft broom or a vacuum, followed by a light mopping using lukewarm or cool water, a damp mop with something like dish soap or baking soda in water.

Regular Cleaning

1. Sweep or Vacuum: Begin by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. Use a soft bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner set to the hard surface mode to prevent scratching the vinyl.
2. Mop the Floor: Use a damp mop with warm water. If needed, a small amount of mild detergent or a specific vinyl floor cleaner can be added to the water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the floor’s surface.
3. Rinse if Necessary: If you’ve used a cleaning product, it’s a good idea to go over the floor with a mop dampened with clean water to remove any residual cleaner that might attract dirt or leave the floor feeling sticky.
4. Dry the Floor: After mopping, allow the floor to air dry or wipe it down with a clean, dry towel or mop to prevent water spots and to help avoid slips.

Dealing with Stains and Spills

1. Immediate Action: Clean spills and stains immediately to prevent them from setting. Most spills can be wiped up with a soft cloth or paper towel.
2. Stubborn Stains: For more difficult stains (like ink, wine, or makeup), you can use a solution of water and mild detergent. Apply it to the stain and gently rub with a soft cloth until the stain lifts. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the vinyl.
3. Scuff Marks: Scuff marks from shoes or furniture can often be removed by rubbing gently with a melamine foam eraser (Magic Eraser) dampened with water.

Preventive Measures

• Use Doormats: Place doormats at entrances to reduce the amount of dirt and grit brought onto your vinyl flooring.
• Felt Pads: Attach felt pads to the legs of furniture to prevent scratches and scuffs.
• Avoid Rubber: Avoid using rubber-backed mats and rugs as they can stain vinyl flooring.
• Protect from Sunlight: Use curtains or blinds to protect the floor from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause discoloration over time.

Maintaining Vinyl Flooring

• Do not use wax-based cleaners, as vinyl flooring has its own shine and wax can make it slippery and dull-looking.
• Avoid using steam mops, as the heat can cause the vinyl to warp or peel.
• Be mindful of the weight of furniture and appliances, as heavy items can cause indentations in the vinyl. Use protective sheets or plywood when moving heavy items across the floor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the vinyl.
• Steer clear of steel wool or other abrasive scrubbers that dull the finish.
• Limit water use during cleaning to protect the adhesive beneath.
• Always rinse cleaned areas with warm water to remove any cleaner residue.
• Prevent furniture from scratching the floor by using felt pads on the legs of chairs, tables, and sofas.

Vinyl Floor Cleaners

Vinyl floor cleaners are specially formulated cleaning products designed to safely and effectively clean vinyl flooring without damaging it. Unlike general-purpose cleaners, which may contain harsh chemicals or abrasive substances, vinyl floor cleaners are made with ingredients that are gentle on the vinyl material, ensuring that the floor’s appearance and integrity are maintained over time.

Key Characteristics of Vinyl Floor Cleaners:

• pH-Neutral: Most vinyl floor cleaners are pH-neutral, meaning they are neither too acidic nor too alkaline. This balance is crucial to avoid damaging the vinyl’s surface.
• Non-Abrasive: They do not contain abrasive particles that could scratch or dull the vinyl flooring’s finish.
• No Wax or Polish: Vinyl floor cleaners typically do not contain wax or polishing agents, which can leave a residue on the floor that attracts more dirt or could make the floor slippery.
• Quick Drying: Many are formulated to dry quickly, reducing the risk of water damage or slipping hazards.
• Eco-Friendly Options: There are also eco-friendly and biodegradable vinyl floor cleaners available for those concerned with environmental impact.

How to Use Vinyl Floor Cleaners:

1. Sweep or Vacuum: Start by removing loose dirt and debris from the floor with a broom, dust mop, or vacuum designed for hard surfaces.
2. Dilute if Necessary: Follow the cleaner’s instructions for dilution. Some cleaners may be used directly, while others require mixing with water.
3. Mop the Floor: Use a damp mop (not soaking wet) to apply the cleaner across the vinyl flooring. Microfiber mops are often recommended for their effectiveness and gentle action on floors.
4. Rinse if Required: Some cleaners may require rinsing with clean water after application, although many modern vinyl floor cleaners do not.
5. Dry the Floor: Allow the floor to air-dry, or use a clean, dry mop to remove excess moisture.

It’s essential to choose a cleaner that is specifically labeled as safe for vinyl floors and to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Regular cleaning with the right products will help keep vinyl flooring looking its best for years to come.