From DJ records to gloves and floors, vinyl is very versatile. There are many benefits to using vinyl floors for your space since it’s a very durable material. However, it can be scratched and stained if not treated properly. Here are some of the things to keep in mind to properly maintain and clean your vinyl floors:
Clean spills right away
Vinyl is a type of plastic so it has waterproofing capabilities. But sugars and other ingredients in liquids can and will stain your vinyl floor if not dealt with as soon as possible.
Use two microfiber cloths/mops to easily clean your floor. One for absorbing most of the liquids and one for drying the area.
Don’t use too much water
Although vinyl is waterproof, water still may find ways to travel underneath your floor. Too much water over time can cause the floor to repel the water to its cracks and seams and push water underneath the floor.
Wet mopping is fine and advisable after sweeping, but make sure that your mop isn’t dripping. The best practice is to just make the mop damp, not wet.
Only use recommended cleaning agents
Vinyl is very durable but it’s also very sensitive. Strong chemical cleaners often damage and remove the shine of the floor. As a rule of thumb, the milder the cleaning solution, the better. Never use ammonia, bleach or any other abrasive cleaners. Bona makes a vinyl floor cleaner that many of the vinyl flooring manufacturers approve for cleaning their floors.
Also, only use soft cloths such as microfiber and soft nylon brushes.
Dish soap
If the dirt is a bit stuck, mix a tablespoon of dish soap to the base cleaning solution.
Baking Soda
To remove stains from food or drinks, mix baking soda and a bit of water to make a thick paste.
After applying the cleaning agents, be sure to mop the floor with a damp mop to remove any residue. Soap and other substances can build up and damage your floor.
Avoid Scuffs and Scratches
Vinyl flooring’s durability makes it a great option for high traffic areas. You just need to avoid scratches and scuffs.
Use a doormat
Prevention is always better than cure. What we need to avoid are dirt and small pebbles as they’re very abrasive to vinyl and can remove the sheen on your floor. Having a doormat collects these harmful things and keep your floor safe.
Sweep/vacuum regularly
Since every dirt and pebble can’t be contained and removed by your doormat.
Use a soft broom or a vacuum cleaner regularly to remove dirt not caught by the doormat.
Use ‘socks’ for your furniture ‘feet’
Use felt tips or floor protectors. As much as possible avoid furniture with rollers. These can still do damage to your floor.