How to Clean Vinyl Flooring - Tips From the PVC Flooring Professionals at PVC Master

​

Vinyl flooring is a popular choice for homes because it is durable, easy to clean, and available in various styles and colours. However, to keep your flooring looking its best, it is important to clean it regularly and properly, and you need to know the best way to clean vinyl floors. Here are a few tips on how to clean vinyl flooring:

​

Sweep or Vacuum the Floor Regularly to Remove Dirt and Debris

Both sweeping and vacuuming are effective ways to remove dirt and debris from vinyl flooring. The choice between the two depends on your personal preference and the type of debris you are trying to remove.

​

Sweeping is a good option for removing larger debris, such as crumbs or larger pieces of dirt. Sweeping also helps remove dust and pet hair that can accumulate on the floor's surface.

​

Vacuuming effectively removes smaller debris and dirt, such as dust and fine particles. Vacuum cleaners with a hard floor setting are best for this, as they design them precisely to remove dirt and debris from hard surfaces like vinyl flooring.

​

Both methods are good options for vinyl flooring maintenance, and you can use them interchangeably, depending on the situation. Regularly sweeping or vacuuming your vinyl floor will help to keep it looking clean and prolong its lifespan.

​

Use Mild Detergent and Warm Water to Clean the Floor

We recommend using mild detergent and warm water to clean vinyl floors rather than harsh chemicals – especially if you're unfamiliar with how to clean vinyl flooring. Harsh chemicals can damage the surface of the vinyl and may cause discolouration or other forms of damage which effectively ruins any vinyl flooring maintenance you had in mind.

​

A mild detergent, like dish soap or a specially formulated vinyl floor cleaner, effectively removes dirt and grime from the floor's surface. Mixing a small amount of detergent with warm water creates a cleaning solution that is gentle enough to use on vinyl flooring yet strong enough to remove dirt and stains. It's also good to avoid using abrasive scrubs or scouring pads when cleaning vinyl flooring, as these can scratch the surface. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber mop.

​

It's always good to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean vinyl flooring. If the manufacturer advises against using a specific cleaning solution or method, it's best to avoid it. You can even check the manufacturer's website for tips on the best way to clean vinyl floors.

​

Dry the Floor Thoroughly After Cleaning to Prevent Water Stains or Damage

It is important to dry your vinyl floor thoroughly after cleaning for a few reasons:

​

Water Damage

Leaving water on the surface of the vinyl floor can cause damage over time. If water is allowed to sit on the surface, it can seep into the seams or edges, causing warping or discolouration.

​

Stains

Water stains may appear on the surface if the floor is not dried thoroughly. The cause could be water left on the surface for too long or cleaning the floor with too much water.

​

Slipperiness

If the floor is not dried thoroughly, it can become slippery, which is a safety hazard.

​

Mildew

When water is left on the floor's surface, it can provide a breeding ground for mildew and mould, which can cause unpleasant odours and health issues. Using a clean, dry cloth or a mop to remove excess water and then allowing the floor to air dry is the best way to dry a vinyl floor thoroughly. It's also a good practice to avoid using too much water when cleaning the floor, to begin with, as it will reduce the amount of water that you need to remove.

​

Use Equal Parts White Vinegar and Warm Water for Tough Stains

Removing tough stains from vinyl floors can be challenging, but a few methods can be effective. Use a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it with a clean cloth. This method is particularly effective for removing stains caused by food, ink, or other everyday household spills.

​

Use a commercial vinyl floor cleaner specifically designed to remove tough stains. Always read the label and follow the manufacturer's instructions because they will guide you on how to clean vinyl flooring. If it's an oil or grease stain, use a small amount of mineral spirits on a clean cloth to blot the stain. Be sure to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the mineral spirits do not damage the vinyl.

​

Try baking soda and water paste for stubborn stains that do not respond to the above methods. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub the area gently with a soft-bristled brush and wipe it up with a damp cloth.

​

It's important to act quickly when a stain occurs, as the longer it sits on the surface, the harder it is to remove. Also, test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the floor before applying it to the entire stain to ensure that it does not damage the surface.

 

It's also good to remember that some stains may be permanent and cannot be removed. In that case, replacing the affected floor area might be necessary.

​

For Scuff Marks, Use a Pencil Eraser or a Magic Eraser to Gently Rub Them Away

Removing scuff marks from vinyl flooring can be done with a few simple methods:

​

• Use a pencil eraser to rub the scuff mark gently, which should pick up the spot and leave the floor looking clean

• Use a magic eraser, a cleaning pad specifically designed to remove scuff marks and other tough stains

• Make a cleaning solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water, and use a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber mop to scrub the scuff marks

• Use a small amount of mineral spirits on a clean cloth to remove scuff marks caused by oil or grease

• If the above methods do not work, you may need a commercial vinyl floor cleaner specifically designed to remove scuff marks

 

It's important to be gentle when trying to remove scuff marks, as excessive scrubbing can damage the surface of the vinyl. It's also good practice to test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the floor before applying it to the entire scuff mark to ensure that it does not damage the surface.

​

Clean the Floor Regularly

Regularly sweeping or vacuuming your vinyl floor will help to remove dirt and debris that can dull the surface. Cleaning the floor with a mild detergent and warm water is also effective in maintaining shine.

​

Use a Floor Polish or Wax Specifically Designed for Vinyl

These products help to enhance the shine and protect the floor's surface. Apply the polish or wax according to the manufacturer's instructions when vinyl floor cleaning.

​

Buff the Floor

Use a buffing machine with a low-speed setting and a soft-bristled brush to buff the floor. It will help to remove any surface scratches and bring back the shine.

​

Avoid Using a Steam Cleaner

Steam cleaners can damage the surface of the vinyl if you use them for vinyl floor cleaning, so it's best to avoid using them.

​

Use Protective Mats and Rugs in High-Traffic Areas

These can help to protect the floor from scratches and scuffs, which can dull the surface.

​

Avoid using abrasive cleaning products or scrubbers that can scratch the floor's surface.

​

Note: If your vinyl flooring is damaged or worn, it may be time to replace it. If you need more clarification, consult a professional flooring contractor for advice.