Sarah Modern Vinyl Plank Flooring
Today’s vinyl flooring has come a long way from its predecessors, with more durable matte finishes and realistic, natural designs that are easy to install in individual planks. These resilient flooring options are popular alternatives to wood floors in homes all over the world, particularly in high-moisture areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. While vinyl plank flooring is generally easy to maintain, it does require some regular cleaning and care to keep it looking its best.
After-Installation Cleaning of Vinyl Plank Flooring
If your vinyl plank flooring was installed with adhesive, there may be excess glue that needs to be removed. Wait at least 24 hours after installation to allow the adhesive to properly cure, then follow these steps to remove any leftover adhesive:
- Gather your tools: You’ll need a scraper, a spray bottle, and either a floor stripper or acetone-based nail polish remover.
- Spritz the glue with cleaning solution: Fill a spray bottle with cleaning solution and spritz a small amount on the adhesive you want to remove. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften the glue.
- Scrape the glue away: Place your scraper parallel to the floor and gently scrape away the adhesive, pulling it off the floor.
- Clean the area with water: Once the adhesive has been removed, use a damp microfiber cloth to clean the area with water. Then, use a clean cloth to dry the spot. You can also mop the area for a thorough clean.
Maintaining Vinyl Plank Flooring
To keep your vinyl plank flooring looking its best, follow these tips:
- Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly: Dust, sand, and other coarse particles can damage the surface of your vinyl plank flooring. Regularly sweep or vacuum the floor, using a gentle broom, microfiber mop, or hardwood floor vacuum cleaner. Avoid using harsh scrubbing brushes or your vacuum’s beater bar.
- Wet-clean the floor: After removing dry dirt and debris, wet-clean the floor with a damp mop and a vinyl-safe floor cleaner. Rinse the floor if necessary, taking care not to over-wet it, and allow it to air-dry.
- Wipe up spills immediately: While vinyl plank flooring is moisture-resistant, it’s still important to wipe up spills as soon as possible to prevent staining or damage. Use a damp cloth to clean up the spill and then dry the area thoroughly.
Cleaning Vinyl Plank Flooring Stains
If your vinyl plank flooring becomes stained, try the following methods to remove the stain:
- Use a vinyl-safe cleaner: Some vinyl-safe cleaners are specifically formulated to remove stains from vinyl plank flooring. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label to remove the stain.
- Use a mixture of water and vinegar: Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz the mixture onto the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub the stain with a soft-bristled brush or sponge. Rinse the area with water and dry thoroughly.
- Use baking soda and water: Make a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub the stain with a soft-bristled brush or sponge, then rinse the area with water and dry thoroughly.
By following these tips for after-installation cleaning, maintaining, and cleaning stains on your vinyl plank flooring, you can keep your floors looking clean and beautiful for years to come. Remember to sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to remove dirt and debris, wet-clean the floor with a vinyl-safe cleaner, and wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining. If your vinyl plank flooring becomes stained, try using a vinyl-safe cleaner, a mixture of water and vinegar, or baking soda and water to remove the stain. With proper care, your vinyl plank flooring will remain a durable and attractive flooring option for your home.
