Luxury vinyl plank, also called LVP flooring, is known for being strong and low maintenance, but it still needs the right care to look its best. Between our dusty weather, busy households, and everyday foot traffic, a simple routine can make a big difference in how long your floors last.

Let's walk through everyday LVP flooring cleaning tips, what products to avoid, and how to protect your floors from damage.

If your vinyl floors are old or damaged or you’re ready for a new look, our team at Floor Coverings International® of Plano, TX, offers in-home consultations, where we’ll discuss the project with you and walk through premium material options.

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Why LVP Is a Great Choice for Plano Homes

Vinyl plank has become a popular choice in newer Plano homes and renovations because it’s comfortable, durable, and easy to maintain. It’s softer and warmer than tile or real wood, which is a welcome comfort in places like busy kitchens. But it also has a resilient wear layer that can take the wear and tear of an active home.

Luxury vinyl plank works well in Plano because:

  • It's durable and family-friendly.
  • It's water-resistant and easy to maintain.
  • It withstands Texas weather changes to stay stable in Plano’s hot summers and dry winters.

How to Keep Your Vinyl Floors Clean

One of the best ways to keep your vinyl floors looking brand-new is to stick to a simple cleaning routine. Here in Plano, dust and dirt can build up quickly, especially if you have kids, pets, or a busy household.

Here are some LVP cleaning tips to keep your floors shining:

  • Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dust, pet hair, and dirt tracked inside.
  • Use a dry microfiber mop daily to clear away fine dust and keep the floors smooth and streak-free.
  • Damp mop once or twice a week with warm water and a gentle LVP-safe cleaner. Avoid soaking the floors or leaving standing water.

Choose the Right Cleaning Products

Choosing the right cleaning products can help keep your vinyl floors looking fresh and beautiful for years. Make sure to select pH-neutral cleaners that are specifically designed for vinyl flooring, or make a vinyl-safe solution by combining a gallon of water with a few drops of gentle dish detergent.

Cleaners to Avoid

Despite being a durable, low-maintenance flooring, the wrong cleaning products can still cause damage. It's best to steer clear of harsh chemicals, abrasive scrub pads, and anything with wax or polish, which can dull the finish and break down the floor’s protective layer.

In general, it’s best to avoid:

  • Harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners
  • Abrasive soaps, powders, and scrubbers
  • Steam cleaners

How to Remove Stains

Thanks to its durable wear layer, vinyl floors don’t often stain; however, some spills, pet accidents, or kid crafts can leave stubborn marks. Thankfully, with the right LVP care, you can remove the stains and still enjoy beautiful floors.

Here's how to clean stains on your LVP flooring:

  1. Wipe up spills immediately. Taking care of the mess right away decreases the chance the stain will stick.
  2. Start with a clean space. Sweep or vacuum the area to clear away dust and dirt.
  3. Use a soft cloth with diluted dish soap and carefully rub to remove the stain.
  4. For tough spots like gum, paint, or marker, use rubbing alcohol on a cloth and gently wipe.

How to Protect LVP from Damage

The best way to protect your luxury vinyl floors is to stop everyday wear before it starts. This might look like putting out mats at the front door, placing runners in busy hallways, or keeping the dog’s nails regularly trimmed.

To protect against scratches:

  • Include felt pads under furniture.
  • Lift furniture rather than dragging.
  • Use furniture sliders when moving heavy pieces.

To prevent fading and discoloration from sunlight:

  • Use curtains, blinds, or UV window film in sunny rooms.
  • Select floors with UV-protected finishes.

To reduce wear in high-traffic areas:

  • Place rugs or mats in areas like entryways or back doors leading to patios.
  • Choose rugs with non-rubber backing to avoid discoloration.

Ready to Enjoy Bright, Beautiful Vinyl Floors?

As a comfortable, reliable flooring, luxury vinyl plank is a great fit for many Plano homes. Keeping it clean is easy with simple LVP floor care, like sweeping, dry mopping, and using pH-neutral cleaners once or twice a week. It's best to avoid harsh chemicals, steam mops, and abrasive tools to protect your floors from stains, fading, and wear.

If you have damaged LVP that needs to be replaced, our team at Floor Coverings International® of Plano, TX, can help you replace individual warped and damaged planks or change out the entire floor for a fresh look. Contact us at (214) 707-4988 or schedule a free in-home consultation to get started today.