How to Keep Vinyl Floors Clean

 

Whether you have sheet vinyl or tiles, it doesn’t take a lot of time or money to keep your vinyl flooring clean and protected. With a little regular maintenance, your floors will look great for a long time to come.

 

Here’s how to care for your vinyl flooring:

 

Use Doormats

Prevention is always the first and best line of defense. Dirt and chemicals that get tracked in from outside can damage any type of flooring. Installing a doormat or rug at each entrance of your home will reduce the amount of dirt that can get in and cause stains and scratches.

 

Sweep Often

Another easy preventative measure you can take is to sweep up dirt and debris regularly, before it can cause damage. Sweeping daily will help your vinyl flooring last longer. It’s especially important to sweep thoroughly before doing any type of wet-mopping.

 

Avoid Abrasive Tools and Chemicals

Avoid using abrasive tools or harsh chemicals when cleaning your vinyl flooring. You can use a vacuum, as long as it has a bare floor setting that keeps the brushes from rotating. Steel wool, ammonia, paste wax and solvents can all damage your floor or leave an unwanted film.

 

Use Cleaners only When Necessary

Mopping regularly with warm water is usually all it takes to keep your vinyl floors looking great. Some cleaning products can leave a film on your flooring, so if you must use them, be sure to rinse with clean water.

 

Suggested Cleaning Products for Vinyl Flooring

For deep cleaning, choose products carefully. Avoid “mop and wax” cleaners. Pine Sol, Pledge, and Armstrong all make cleaning products specifically for vinyl flooring.

Or try these home-made vinyl floor cleaners: A cup of apple cider vinegar mixed into a gallon of hot water will remove built-up dirt. A paste of baking soda and water will clean up food stains. A little shampoo in a gallon of water will clean up the hairspray film on your bathroom floor. Rubbing alcohol will clean stains from lipstick, ink, and hair dye. Crayon, paint, and marker can be removed from vinyl floors with mineral spirits. Spilled nail polish? Clean it up with nail polish remover containing acetone.

 

Limit Exposure to Liquids

Too much water can cause big problems for vinyl flooring, like cracking and peeling. This is especially a concern if you have vinyl tiles, because water can seep between the tiles. Mop up spills right away, and make sure your mop is not too wet when cleaning your floor.

 

Put “Feet” on Furniture and Appliances

All furniture and appliances that sit on your vinyl flooring should be equipped with floor protectors to eliminate denting and scratching. Chairs and tables should have felt tip protectors attached to all legs. Appliances without floor protectors can cause dents.

 

Move Safely

When moving large appliance or piece of furniture, make sure you protect your flooring from damage. Placing these heavier items on a sheet of plywood allows them to be pushed or pulled across the floor without scratching or damaging the surface.

 

Looking for Vinyl Flooring and Cleaning Products?

 

Jabara’s offers a wide variety of beautiful vinyl flooring. We can also help you with information and products to keep your floors looking great year after year. Call or stop by today, or check out the options in our flooring catalog from the comfort of your home.