Caring for Your Vinyl (LVP or LVT) Flooring
Vinyl flooring has been one of the popular floor covering choices of products for many homes. It's versatile, has lots of color variations and easy to take care of. If you're considering having new vinyl floors installed in your home, you may want to know how to care for them properly so that they last for years to come. Vinyl is durable and easy to clean, but it helps to use the correct cleaning products and methods to maintain its luster over time.
Clean regularly
You will want to clean your floor at least once a week. This can be done with a no-wax cleaner, which will help protect the life of your floor. If you are using a mop, use one that has soft bristles and is well maintained so that it does not scratch or damage your vinyl flooring. Never use harsh cleaners on vinyl floors, as this may cause the finish to peel off and reveal the core of the flooring.
If you have an area rug that has been used for some time and needs cleaning, we recommend vacuuming it first with an upholstery attachment before washing by hand in cold water using mild detergent; rinse thoroughly with plain water and allow to air dry flat (never tumble dry). If you want to clean your vinyl underneath the area rug as well, roll it after vacuuming and washing it. Avoid using any cleaning product containing bleach or alcohol on any part of your vinyl flooring—these products can break down the finish over time causing irreparable damage and possibly voiding any warranty the product may carry.
Mopping Your Vinyl
You should aim to mop your floor regularly. If you do this, it will help to prevent scratches and scuffs as well as reduce the amount of dirt that builds up over time.
For best results, use a damp mop with a small amount of water—not too much and not too little. The key is to make sure that you clean the floor before it dries; otherwise, you may end up with streaks from excess liquid or streaks from not enough liquid (or both).
Use a no-wax cleaner
You should use a no-wax containing cleaner. These cleaners are safe for your vinyl flooring, and they're easy to use. You can find these cleaners at any home improvement store, so they're inexpensive too. No wax cleaners will not leave a film on your floor or discolor it in any way!
Avoid abrasive cleaners
Always make sure you avoid abrasive cleaners that aren't made for flooring. Avoiding these harsh cleaners is simple: don’t use them! There are a few varieties of abrasive chemicals that you should also avoid when cleaning your vinyl floors, including bleach and vinegar. Both of these cleaners can leave behind streaks on vinyl flooring surfaces if used improperly. If you want to deep-clean your vinyl flooring, look for a no-wax cleaner specifically made for removing dirt from tile and other hard surfaces.
Try not to let dirt build up on the floor
When dust and dirt build up, it can scratch the surface of your vinyl. Dirt also attracts more dirt, so be sure to clean your floor regularly. A quick sweep with a broom or use a vacuum cleaner on low setting will keep your floors looking great.
Spot clean as needed
- Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to spot clean your floor as needed.
- Do not use an abrasive cleaner, vinegar or lemon juice, bleach, a steam cleaner or pressure washer on your LVP flooring. All of these items will eventually ruin your beautiful vinyl.
Keep your new vinyl floors looking their best by following the instructions of the manufacturer
Keep your new vinyl floors looking their best by following the instructions of the manufacturer and caring for them properly. This will result in years of enjoyment with your new floors!
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Most manufacturers recommend that you clean your floor with a damp mop every day or two to remove dirt and debris. Use a no-wax cleaner to avoid damaging or dulling the finish on your flooring. Avoid abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch or chip the surface of your vinyl flooring.
- Clean regularly with a damp mop, gentle soap and water solution (1 teaspoon liquid dish detergent per gallon warm water), or use a specialty cleaner made specifically for cleaning vinyl floors (sold at home improvement centers). Be sure not to scrub too hard; instead just wipe gently until dry then follow up immediately with dry cloths to absorb excess moisture from cleaning solution applied earlier during sweeping process.* Avoid letting dirt build up on surface; spot clean as needed
We hope we’ve been able to give you some ideas on how to care for your new vinyl (LVP or LVT) flooring. It’s important to remember that it’s not just any kind of flooring—it’s a high-quality product that can last for years if cared for properly. For some options for your new vinyl flooring, visit https://floorzz.com/collections/vinyl-flooring. Floorzz offers a large variety of vinyl flooring that fits any design need. With vinyl lines from DuChateau, COREtec, Provenza, HF Design, and Shaw, you are sure to find the perfect floor for your next project! Vinyl is a cost effective alternative that is durable in residential and commercial settings and provides beautiful flooring for years to come.
If you have any questions about maintaining your vinyl flooring or would like more information about its maintenance requirements, contact us today at 833-FLOORZZ.