Keep Your Vinyl Floors In Tip-Top Shape With Advice From Our Cleaning Expert

Vinyl is an excellent flooring option thanks to its affordability and durability. However, you may be unsure about how to maintain your vinyl floor so it remains looking brand new. Katie Dills, President of The Cleaning Authority, shared her top tips exclusively with House Digest on how to keep your vinyl floors shining. "Be sure to regularly sweep and vacuum your floors to remove dust and debris," Dills advised. "I recommend vacuuming and mopping at least once a week." 

As pointed out by Dills, cleaning your floor regularly is important to prevent build-up and keep it in good condition, but getting the mixture right for cleaning can be tough. Too much water and your floor will be oversaturated, too little, and it won't be properly clean. "To mop, mix ½ cup of white distilled vinegar with ½ gallon of warm water," Dills shared. "Vinegar effectively breaks down dirt and bacteria without damaging your vinyl flooring. It is non-toxic and environmentally friendly, making it a safer alternative to many commercial cleaning products that use harsh chemicals."

Now you know what to use for day-to-day cleaning, you're probably wondering what to do if you notice a stain pop up. Stains happen, but it can be tricky to know where to start with them. Sometimes, going in with harsh detergents can have an adverse effect on your vinyl flooring and potentially cause imperfections. To avoid this, it's best to stick to less abrasive ingredients. If you notice a pesky mark pop up on your vinyl kitchen floor, Katie Dills told House Digest the best way to deal with it. "To treat stains, be sure to clean immediately," Dills stated. "Most stains will lift easily by gently blotting then scrubbing with a mild dish soap." 

"When cleaning, avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive products, or wax cleaners," Dills continued. "Additionally, be sure to protect your vinyl flooring by using furniture pads on your furniture to avoid scratching the surface." As well as doing the above, Dills also mentioned spot testing. "Before using a specific product on your floor, be sure to test it in a small, inconspicuous area of your home to avoid potential damage," the cleaning expert advised.

If you're still considering whether to buy vinyl flooring, Katie Dills shared with House Digest that all types are a good option. "The benefits of vinyl flooring are that they are crafted to be water, and stain resistant," Dills revealed. This is ideal if you live in a home with pets or small children or just generally find yourself noticing spills on a regular basis. 

However, the cleaning expert did emphasize that no one type of vinyl flooring is easier to maintain, stating, "Popular vinyl flooring options include planks that mimic hardwood, as well as tile. Both require regular vacuuming, mopping, and maintenance." Moreover, not all vinyl floor options are water and stain-resistant, so always double-check before buying if this is a deciding factor for you. Once you have invested in and installed your vinyl floor, follow Dills' tips to ensure it stays in good condition year after year.