Vinyl plank flooring has become a popular choice for its remarkable resemblance to natural wood and its extraordinary durability. Its low-maintenance nature makes it even more attractive to homeowners. Yet, beneath the surface beauty lies the vital necessity of cleaning vinyl plank flooring, as no flooring can escape the inevitable accumulation of dust, dirt, and grime over time.
How to clean vinyl plank flooring? No one likes mopping. So, cleaning vinyl flooring in the most efficient way seems to be essential. This article will guide you step by step on how to clean vinyl floors regularly and give you important tips to free your home from stains, spills, and scuffs. Keep reading to learn more about it!
How to Clean Vinyl Plank Flooring Regularly
While vinyl plank flooring is more durable compared to other floors like carpets, dust, sand, or other visible particles can still cause different degrees of damage to the floor in the long term.
Therefore, to ensure the longevity of the floor, regular cleaning of vinyl flooring, such as vacuuming and damp mopping, still matters. It’s for sure that you have your own cleaning habits and routines, but the following tips can help you do the job more efficiently.
1. Dust or Vacuum the Vinyl Floors
Before using water to clean the floor, it's generally recommended to remove visible dust and debris. This can be achieved by using a soft broom or a handheld vacuum to prevent scuffing. If you opt for vacuuming, ensure that your vacuum cleaner is equipped with a soft broom head or a brushless suction attachment to prevent potential floor damage.
And if you want to save your time and effort, using smart cleaning devices like the eufy robot vacuums is a great option. They come with dust-suction capabilities and offers modes designed for hardwood floors to avoid excessive suction, making your cleaning process more effortless.
2. Mop the Floor with Vinyl-Friendly Cleaning Solutions
Once you've dusted the floor, it's time to proceed with damp mopping.
Start by choosing a cleaning solution suitable for vinyl floors. You have two options: either select a cleaning solution specifically formulated for vinyl floors or create the best cleaning for vinyl floors on your own. To make your own solution, you can combine a teaspoon of clear and unscented dish soap with a gallon of warm water. Alternatively, mix a gallon of warm water with a cup of white vinegar to create a natural cleaning agent that effectively breaks down residues.
With your chosen cleaning solution prepared, follow these steps:
- Pour the solution into a bucket and dip your mop, ensuring it becomes damp but not overly saturated.
- Before mopping, wring out the mop to eliminate excessive water dripping.
- Begin mopping the vinyl flooring, applying gentle pressure to effectively clean without causing damage. Take care not to force water between the planks or contribute to wear and tear over time.
- Pay attention to the direction of the vinyl planks' grain while mopping to avoid pushing dirt or water into the seams.
By following these steps, you'll ensure a thorough yet careful cleaning process that maintains the integrity and appearance of your vinyl floors.
3. Rinse the Floor After Mopping
Adding a final touch to your cleaning routine, post-mopping rinsing is a crucial step to ensure no residual cleaning product is left behind on your vinyl flooring. Rinsing not only enhances the floor's appearance but also safeguards it from potential buildup.
After rinsing, it's recommended to allow the floor to air dry naturally. This gentle drying process minimizes the risk of excess moisture affecting the floor. In situations where a speedy drying process is needed, such as before a gathering, you can lightly pass over the floor with a dry mop. However, again, avoid applying excessive pressure, as this can prevent the formation of water spots or scratches on the surface.
Your meticulous attention to this final step contributes to maintaining the pristine condition of your vinyl floors and ensures they remain both clean and visually appealing.
How to Clean Spills, Stains, and Scuffs on Vinyl Floors
When there are no stubborn stains, the above steps are generally sufficient for regular vinyl floor cleaning. However, if you have children or pets in the home, spills, stains, or scuffs on the floor are a common occurrence. How do you deal with these problems? Depending on the situation, you may need to use different cleaning methods and tools.
For Cleaning Spills and Stains
Accidental spills are common, especially during cooking or eating meals. While vinyl flooring is moisture-resistant, swift action is key. To clean vinyl plank floors with spills, follow these steps:
- Immediately blot the spill with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb excess liquid. Avoid rubbing, as it may spread the spill.
- Dampen a cloth with water and a mild vinyl-friendly cleaner.
- Gently wipe the spill area to remove any residue.
- Thoroughly dry the area to prevent moisture from seeping into the floor.
By the way, stains can occur when spills or substances leave visible marks on the flooring. To effectively remove stains, use the following method:
- Create a mixture of water and a specialized vinyl floor cleaner.
- Apply the mixture to the stain and allow it to sit for a few minutes.
- Gently scrub the stain using a soft cloth or sponge.
- Rinse the area with clean water and ensure it is completely dry.
For Cleaning Scuffs
Scuffs, typically caused by shoes or furniture, can mar the look of your vinyl plank flooring. To restore its appearance, try these 2 methods:
- Gentle Cloth or Foam Eraser:Use a soft cloth or melamine foam eraser with mild pressure to gently rub the scuff. This method is effective for minor scuffs without harming the floor.
- Baking Soda Solution:For tougher scuffs, create a paste by mixing a small amount of baking soda with water. Apply it to a cloth and gently rub the scuff.
When you clean the scuffs, remember to stick to soft, non-abrasive cleaning tools to prevent surface damage. And if you cannot handle it by yourself, consider seeking professional floor repair or manufacturer guidance for tailored solutions.
By promptly addressing spills and stains and properly dealing with scuffs using these techniques, you can ensure the longevity and appearance of your vinyl floors, even in high-traffic areas.
Conclusion
Now, you must have known how to clean vinyl plank flooring on a daily basis, and how to deal with spills, stains, and scuffs. It's not as difficult as you have imagined for cleaning vinyl plank flooring. Tailoring your cleaning approach to the specific problem ensures the best results in maintaining your vinyl plank flooring.
