Your Guide to Vinyl Plank Flooring Care

Vinyl plank flooring, also known as luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and hybrid flooring, has exploded in popularity in recent years. And for good reason! It's stylish, durable, and easy to maintain. But even the most low-maintenance flooring needs some TLC to keep it looking its best.

While it may seem daunting, we will talk you through everything how to care for vinyl plank flooring, keeping it sparkling and clean from daily dust bunnies to those inevitable spills.

How to care for Vinyl Plank Flooring: Daily Maintenance

The key to keeping your vinyl plank flooring looking amazing lies in prevention. Here's how to establish a simple yet effective daily routine:

1. Embrace the Broom (or Vacuum):

Regular sweeping or vacuuming of your vinyl plank flooring will help remove loose dirt, dust, and debris before they can scratch the surface. Make sure to use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hard-floor attachment. Avoid beater bars, which can be too harsh for vinyl.

2. Welcome the Microfiber Mop:

Think of microfiber as your secret weapon against everyday grime. Microfiber mops pick up dust and dirt with minimal moisture, which is key for vinyl plank flooring.

For a deeper clean, dampen the mop with warm water and a mild cleaning solution (more on that later).

3. Doormats Do Double Duty:

Place doormats at all entrances to trap dirt and debris before they track onto your beautiful floors.

Following these steps should help protect your floors from any avoidable damage, keeping them looking fresh and new.

How to care for Vinyl Plank Flooring: Spills and Stains

Spills happen, but with vinyl plank flooring, quick action is your best friend:

1. Act Fast:

The longer a spill sits, the higher the chance it will stain. Blot up any excess liquid with a clean, absorbent cloth (microfiber works wonders here too). Don't scrub, as this can spread the stain further.

2. Choose the Right Weapon:

Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners. These can damage the vinyl's finish. Instead, opt for a mild cleaning solution. You can use a commercial vinyl floor cleaner or create your own by mixing a few drops of dish soap with a bucket of warm water.

Gently Does It:

Once you've blotted up the excess, use your damp mop (wrung out well to avoid excess moisture) to clean the affected area. Always rinse the mop head to prevent spreading the stain.

Stubborn Stains? Seek Backup:

For tougher stains, consult your flooring manufacturer's recommendations. You might need a specific stain remover designed for vinyl flooring.

Deep Cleaning: When to Call in the Big Guns

While daily maintenance and quick spill response are essential, a deeper clean every few months can keep your vinyl plank flooring looking its best. Here's what a deep clean might entail:

Gather Your Supplies:

You'll need a bucket, a soft-bristled mop, a microfiber mop head (optional), and a vinyl floor cleaner.

Prepare the Cleaning Solution:

Follow the instructions for dilution on your chosen vinyl floor cleaner. Remember, a little goes a long way!

Mop and Dry:

Mop the floor using the cleaning solution, ensuring you wring out the mop to avoid soaking the planks.

Rinse the mop head frequently and follow up with clean water to remove any cleaning solution residue. Finally, allow the floor to dry completely before walking on it.

Professional Help: When It's Time to Call in the Cavalry

For heavily soiled floors, deep ingrained dirt, or after a particularly messy DIY project, professional cleaning might be the best solution. Professional cleaning companies have the equipment and expertise to handle tough jobs like:

Heavy-Duty Cleaning:

Professionals can use powerful yet gentle cleaning machines to remove deep-seated dirt and grime.

Scuff Mark Removal:

Scuff marks can be unsightly. Professionals have the tools and techniques to remove these marks without damaging the vinyl.

Restorative Cleaning:

Over time, even well-maintained vinyl plank flooring can lose its shine. Professional cleaners can use restorative cleaning techniques to bring back the lustre of your floors.

Choosing a Professional Vinyl Plank Floor Cleaning Service

Experience Matters:

Look for a company with experience cleaning vinyl plank flooring, particularly luxury vinyl plank or hybrid flooring (which may need specialized cleaning methods).

Get References:

Ask for references from past clients to get a sense of the company's quality of service.

Clear Communication is Key:

Set your expectations and any concerns you have about your vinyl plank flooring.

Extra Tips to Keep Your Vinyl Plank Flooring Looking Fabulous:

Furniture Felts are Your Friends: Apply furniture felts to the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture to prevent scratches and scuffs.

Shield from Sunlight: While natural light can brighten your space, direct sunlight can cause vinyl plank flooring to fade over time. Consider using curtains or blinds to filter harsh sunlight.

Keep it Cool: Extreme temperatures can damage vinyl plank flooring. Avoid placing hot objects on the floor and maintain a moderate room temperature.

Embrace Regular Inspections: Inspect your vinyl plank flooring for any signs of damage, such as loose planks, cracks, or chips. Address any issues to prevent further problems.

The Power of Prevention: Consider placing area rugs in high-traffic areas to reduce wear and tear on your vinyl plank flooring.

Vinyl Plank Flooring: Easy Care, Big Rewards

While following this guide can really keep your flooring in great condition, our friendly team is experienced in how to care for your vinyl plank flooring.

Ready for a professional touch? Contact Nice N Clean today for a free quote and make your vinyl floors shine like new!