How to clean and maintain vinyl flooring

Vinyl is the go-to flooring for many people because of its durability, affordability, and limitless design options. This guide provides guidance on how to best clean and maintain your floors.

Note that if you have just installed a new vinyl flooring in your house, it is recommended to use a damp mop immediately. Then do not scrub or wash for at least 72 hours and follow the below guidance to maintain and wash your floors.

How to wash your vinyl flooring

Use hot water

Best is to wash your vinyl floor with plain hot water which helps remove grease and other microbes but you can also use neutral detergent.

Don’t use these products

DO NOT use abrasive cleaners, or “mop and shine” products. These products may leave a dull film on your floor.

DO NOT use paste wax or solvent-based polishes.

DO NOT use highly alkaline ‘floor strippers’ to clean the floor covering. Highly alkaline solutions have the potential to damage the adhesive bonds between the planks.

How to maintain your vinyl floor

Sweep or vacuum regularly

Remove dust by regularly using a broom or vacuum cleaner. By making a habit out of it, you will prevent dirt and dust from building up on the floor which is one of the leading causes of scratches and wears.

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Note:We do not recommend vacuums that have a beater bar since it can visibly damage your flooring surface. Additionally, we do not recommend electric brooms with hard plastic bottoms with no padding as use may result in discolouration and de-glossing. The use of steam mops or similar is not recommended.

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Wipe up spills immediately

Whenever coffee or any other liquid spills on your vinyl floor, wipe it out as soon as possible. It will prevent the liquid from sipping through and reduce dampness on the floor. Never use highly abrasive scrubbing tools on any resilient floor.

Keep them looking great!

Use furniture pads

The sharp edges of the furniture can cause damage such as scratches or gouges. Using furniture pads will protect your floors and keep them in good condition for longer.

Use saucers under houseplants

Houseplants cause dampness on the vinyl floor as a result of exposure to water. Best is to keep your plants houseplants sitting in a saucer to catch excess water.

Keep hot items at a safe distance

Heaters, coals or ashes can destroy your vinyl floor. Keep hot sources at a safe height from the vinyl floor.

Use walk-off mats

Place a walk-off mat at outside entrances to reduce the amount of dirt brought into your home. We strongly recommend mats without a latex or rubber backing since these backings can cause permanent discolouration.

Make it shine!

Over time, if the shine on your floor begins to dull, you can apply a Shinekeeper Floor Finish.

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