Vinyl flooring is attractive, durable and long-lasting, but it is certainly not indestructible. Luckily, care is relatively easy and inexpensive if you know how to do it correctly. In this article we will tell you tips and tricks on how you can clean and care for a vinyl floor using only home remedies so that it retains its attractive appearance for a long time!
Vinyl flooring has come a long way since it was introduced in Sweden in the 1930s. Today, this hard-wearing floor covering is no longer only available in kitschy patterns, but rather successfully imitates wood, stone or ceramic tiles.
Vinyl flooring is waterproof, making it a practical and cost-effective option for bathrooms, kitchens and basements. Because it is made from 100% polymers, it will not warp when exposed to excessive moisture, unlike laminate or wood floors.
In general, care is very simple. You can find out here how and how often you should clean a vinyl floor and which home remedies are recommended for best results!
Clean vinyl floors with home remedies – this is how it works with vinegar
Why you should clean vinyl floors with vinegar? Vinegar is primarily made up of acetic acid, which has a low pH. Because vinegar is very acidic, it can effectively kill bacteria and other types of microorganisms that may be present on the soil. This substance also has degreasing properties. While white vinegar is the most acidic and effective type of vinegar, apple cider vinegar can also achieve the desired results.
- Notice: Please note, however, that vinegar can attack and damage natural stone surfaces in your home.
This is how you can clean vinyl floors with vinegar:
- Vacuum or sweep the floor: Vinyl floors have a waxy coating. This top layer can easily be damaged by dirt particles and abrasive materials. Therefore, it is important to vacuum or sweep the floor before cleaning it.
- Dissolve one cup of white vinegar in 4 liters of hot water. (As mentioned, white vinegar is most effective, but you can also use apple cider vinegar as an alternative)
- Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. (Vinegar has a strong smell)
- Notice:If your floor is particularly dirty, start by washing it with a solution of water and a few drops of liquid dish soap. Then repeat the process with the solution of vinegar and hot water and finally mop it with a mop dipped only in clean water, which you should definitely change in case you notice that it gets dirty.
What shouldn't you clean with vinegar?You can find out here!
For severe stains, use baking soda and diluted alcohol
If you need to clean a heavily soiled vinyl floor with food stains, grease stains, ink stains, etc., baking soda and diluted alcohol will do a great job. Here's how to use them:
For food stains: To remove dried food or stains caused by tomato sauce or red wine, mix two tablespoons of baking soda and one tablespoon of water. Apply the paste to the stain, wait 15-20 minutes, and then use a microfiber cloth to gently remove the stain from the floor. The mild abrasive action of the baking soda will work wonders without damaging the surface.
Lipstick, grease or ink stains: Apply a small amount of highly diluted alcohol to a microfiber cloth. Gently wipe the stain from the outer edge toward the center. This will prevent the stain from getting bigger. If the microfiber cloth is very dirty, replace it with a clean one and repeat the process to prevent the stain from smearing.
Rust stains: These should be cleaned with a rust removal sponge and then water.
For more tips on how to clean your house in an eco-friendly way,can be found here!
How often to clean vinyl flooring and how to keep it in tip-top shape
In heavily used areas of a home, vinyl flooring should be swept or vacuumed daily to remove grit that can cause scratches. Spills should be wiped up immediately to avoid stains that are difficult to remove, and floors should be thoroughly mopped weekly.
Tips on how to keep vinyl flooring in top shape:
- Never use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub vinyl floors.
- Place a doormat or rug at each entrance to catch sand and dirt that can damage the floor.
- Prevent dents caused by heavy furniture by fitting tables and chair legs with felt pads.
- Remove casters from furniture or use a protective mat to avoid scratches.
- Never drag heavy furniture or appliances across a vinyl floor. Use a sheet of plywood when moving items to avoid scratches and cracks.
- Also note – cleaning vinyl floors with a steam cleaner is not a good idea!
