Vinyl flooring is famously low-maintenance and durable, but maintaining a regular cleaning regimen and removing stains quickly will greatly prolong its lifespan. Learn how to clean vinyl floors that have ground-in dirt or are covered with grime, and how to remove stains before they’re permanent.
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How to Clean Vinyl Flooring
The key to cleaning vinyl flooring is to be consistent and avoid adding too much moisture to the process.
Daily/Routine Cleaning
Sweep or dry mop daily or every other day to prevent dirt buildup, which can cause scratches. Soft-bristle brooms and gentle microfiber dust mops are excellent tools for removing small debris, especially in high-traffic areas.
Weekly/Monthly Cleaning
After sweeping or dry mopping, use a damp (not wet) mop and a pH-neutral floor cleaner to mop up. Always check your floor manufacturer’s recommendations for the best cleaning products for your flooring. Rinse the mop repeatedly as you work through the room and give the floor plenty of time to dry before walking on it.
Address Spills Immediately
Always clean up food, drink, or other spills immediately to prevent damage or stains from ground-in dirt on vinyl flooring. In general, a damp rag will pick up most liquids, but keep an eye on the area for any lingering stains your first pass didn’t capture.
How to Remove Stains from Vinyl Flooring
Speed is always your ally when trying to remove stains from vinyl flooring, regardless of the source of the stain. Tackle spills quickly for successful vinyl floor stain removal; here are a few of the toughest challenges you’ll likely face.
How to Remove Ink Stains from Vinyl Flooring
Dab the stain with a clean, soft cloth that’s been dipped in a small amount of rubbing alcohol. Dab, don’t wipe, to avoid spreading the stain. Once the stain lifts, use a second clean cloth to wipe up any remaining residue.
How to Remove Blood Stains from Vinyl Flooring
Use cold water and a clean cloth to blot blood away. Dried blood stains may require a small amount of mild dish soap in addition to cold water, but test the solution on an inconspicuous area of the floor before tackling the stain itself.
Choose Your Materials Wisely
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials like steel wool or stiff-bristle brushes when removing any stain on vinyl flooring. Bleach, ammonia, and most solvents will strip the protective layer and potentially cause discoloration. Finally, never use steam mops on vinyl to avoid damage. When in doubt, always check with your flooring manufacturer before cleaning ground-in dirt from vinyl flooring.
Enjoy Your Vinyl Floors – And the Shopping Experience
Floor Coverings International® of Chandler-Gilbert offers a range of quality vinyl flooring products and expert installation services in the greater Phoenix area. Find the flooring you want and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with expert installation. Let us bring the flooring store to you with our Mobile Flooring Showroom®; schedule your free, in-home consultation today!
