How to Clean Vinyl Floors
Having your own home is a dream of many. In addition, if you are amongst the lucky ones to be able to build your den, you might have to compromise on a few things when running low on budget.
You can compromise on the color of the walls or maybe a few decorative items, but is what to do when you do not have a high budget to go for marble flooring for the house?
Well, vinyl flooring is a cheap alternative to it and yes, very durable if taken good care of.
How to Clean Discolored Vinyl Flooring
?It adds warmth to the look of your house and is easy to walk on. Since it is a little pocket-friendly, does it mean it is low in quality?
Not at all! Of course, you need to be a little more careful when cleaning vinyl plank flooring to ensure these last long.
So, how to clean vinyl plank flooring? What is the best way to clean a vinyl floor so it does not wear and tear over time?
If you have installed vinyl flooring in the house and looking for ways to clean it, keep reading on!
How to Clean Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring looks good and is one cheap way to enhance the interiors of your house without burdening your pocket. However, it does not matter what kind of floor do you have! It should be well maintained to make it last a lifetime.
So, what is the best way to clean the vinyl floor to keep its look intact? Here is how to clean vinyl flooring to avoid damage:
1. Use a Broom to Clean Loose Dirt
Vinyl flooring is very delicate and hence, avoid using hard brushes on it. Moreover, before you rush into cleaning it with a wet mop, make sure you remove the loose dirt first.
To clean the loose dirt, use a soft-bristled broom so it does not scratch and damage the flooring. Collect it in the pan and discard. Or if you have a vacuum, nothing can work better.
2. Do Not Use Harsh Cleaners
So, what is the best vinyl cleaner that can be used for cleaning the floor? Is there any cleaner that will help you get rid of germs and dirt without altering the shine of the surface?
Well, because vinyl floorings are delicate, you should not be using cleaners that contain any hard chemicals. Rather, do not use store-bought cleaners to add durability to your flooring life.
So, which is the best cleaning solution for vinyl flooring that is super safe for us?
You can always make one at home! If the flooring is stained badly, mix some vinegar/baking soda/liquid dishwasher in warm water and use it to clean the stains and mop the floor.
The homemade solution does not only help you get rid of the stubborn stains but also kills germs without damaging the flooring itself.
Alternatively, if you are not satisfied with using vinegar or baking soda, simply add a little dishwashing liquid into water and use it to clean the floors.
3. Never Use a Dripping Mop
One of the biggest mistakes most homeowners make is that of using dripping mops without realizing it.
Your mop or rag should always be wrung before cleaning so it is only damp and not dripping.
But why is it important? This is because the dripping mop can leave behind water stains that look ugly and are difficult to remove.
Moreover, the water will then seep into the floor and damage it from the inside, making it difficult to repair.
4. Clean the Stains on the Way
Spilling accidents are inevitable and when you have been in one, make sure you are quick to clean the mess.
Of course, sometimes it is not possible to get to the stain quickly. You sometimes either miss the spot or forget all about it.
So, how do you clean stains? If those are dried-up food stains like that of sauce or wine, prepare a paste using baking soda and water. Apply it on the stain and leave it for some time before you rub it and rinse.
On the contrary, dealing with grease, ink, or paint stain will not be that easy. If you have more stubborn stains like these in your reach, use rubbing alcohol to remove them.
Just remember when you are removing stains from vinyl flooring, never scrap the floor or it will damage it.
5. Let it Dry
If you have not used much liquid soap or shampoo to clean the floor then we will suggest gently wiping it clean with a fresh piece of cloth.
On the other hand, if you need to rinse it, do so but make sure you switch on the fans so the vinyl floor dries completely.
What you need to understand here is that even the slightest of moisture can ruin the floor over time and hence, either avoid cleaning the floor with excessive water or make sure to dry it fully.
Top 8 Tips to Remember When Cleaning Vinyl Floor
Although, we have already discussed ways you can easily clean vinyl flooring from using the best vinyl floor cleaner to techniques.
However, here we have come up with some additional tips to help you even further:
- Avoid cleaning vinyl flooring with steam. Because vinyl flooring gets damaged when in contact with water or heat, we’d suggest you avoid cleaning it with a steam mop.
- Never use a hard-bristled brush or anything sharp on the vinyl flooring to scrap dirt or stains or else, it can scratch and damage the floors.
- To avoid the accumulation of dirt and grime in the house, either place a doormat at the entrance or do not allow shoes in the house.
- Also, avoid placing heaving furniture on the vinyl flooring, or else it can dent it.
- Never drag furniture or sharp things on the vinyl flooring to avoid damage
- Do not clean the flooring with a hard chemical containing cleaners or else it can discolor the flooring.
- Always let the floor air dry to avoid the build-up of moisture under it.
- Vacuuming is the best way to keep your flooring neat and clean.
These few tips will surely go a long way with you!
The Right Technique Can Promise Durability
How often do you clean the vinyl flooring? How often should it be cleaned or deep cleaned?
It depends on how strong is the flooring type. Vinyl flooring is easy on the pocket and hence, might not be very high standard.
Nevertheless, that does not mean there won’t last a few years. If you take care of them while cleaning, you can surely make them last for years.
Maintenance of the floor plays a great part in adding life to it. Make sure you do not use any hard-chemical-containing cleaners to get rid of stains.
Moreover, do not use anything sharp on it or drag furniture, or else it will easily scratch.
Even it is suggested to use a soft-bristles mop or broom for cleaning the vinyl flooring to avoid scratching and damage. Moreover, do not rinse it with excessive water and if you do, make sure you completely air-dry it.
No water should penetrate the flooring or it will swell up and cause irreversible damage to it.
Relax and Enjoy!
The vinyl flooring looks great and is light on the pocket. Just make sure you pay a little extra attention to its cleaning and if possible, only use a vacuum for cleaning, as it is one of the safest methods.
You may also take a look at our ultimate step-by-step vacuum cleaners buying guide.