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Vinyl floors have come a long way over the last thirty years and are available in various prints and styles. While historically used in rooms like the kitchen and bathrooms, vinyl planks are becoming increasingly popular for shared living and family rooms. Vinyl floors are also highly durable and, even better, easy to clean and care for.
Vinyl flooring and the modern timber, ceramic and stone look are available in the traditional range. The vinyl sheet gives your home a more expensive timber look, is highly durable, and comes at an economical price.
How best to clean and maintain Vinyl flooring
To clean your vinyl floor, you only need a mop bucket and general detergent. Dilute a non-abrasive floor detergent with warm water, and you are ready to go. Ensure you don’t make the floor surface too wet; the vinyl should dry within a few minutes after cleaning. You can also use a microfiber mop or a damp cloth.
To mop your vinyl floor, clear as much space as possible and remove any small items or lightweight furniture. It is usually a good idea to start cleaning the side of the room that is the furthest from the door. Gently run the mop over the floor and wring it out every few strokes. If you notice the water looks dirty, swap it out for a fresh batch.
How often should you clean Vinyl flooring?
How frequently you need to clean your vinyl flooring will depend on its use, foot traffic, and other factors like pets in the home. You may sweep it daily and then wash it with a mop every week or so. Using a doormat or entry mat can significantly reduce the moisture and dirt you bring into the home, enabling you to clean the floor less frequently. Excessive mopping can dull the finish of vinyl.
What cleaning products to use on Vinyl flooring
Plenty of products on the market will give your vinyl a clean appearance and kill off any nasties. Make sure you select one that has a neutral pH. However, if you want to avoid purchasing chemical cleaners, you can easily make your own at home. All you need is a mixture of water and vinegar. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil for a fresh finish. Clean up any spills on your vinyl floor as quickly as possible.
What not to use on Vinyl flooring
If you are looking for a partially shiny finish, look for wax-like products that will give vinyl a high shine. With vinyl, you won’t need any resealing or waxing, as is recommended for hardwood timber. Using a steam mop on your vinyl floor is also not recommended. Steam mops operate at quite high temperatures that can damage the vinyl, resulting in warping or bubbling on the surface of the vinyl. Do not use any caustic or ammonia-based cleaners.
Is Vinyl flooring waterproof?
Vinyl flooring is much more water-resistant than laminate and hardwood floors; however, it is not technically waterproof. If you use too much water when mopping, there is a risk that water droplets will permeate through the seams and edges. Some vinyl floors are installed with multiple planks or tiles or as vinyl sheets, so there are potentially many points at which water can seep through. Mould or mildew may begin to form under the surface of the vinyl within the felt or foam layers. Use a towel to dry any vinyl floor tiles that have become too wet during mopping.
To help avoid problems like these, suppliers like Pegulan recommend using seam-seal at the joints. This Aussie company applies an additional surface treatment to their vinyl flooring products, making this range a great practical and hygienic choice. This barrier means that dirt, germs, and bacteria have nowhere to hide. Pegulan is an excellent choice in areas where humidity is a concern.
How to get rid of the dust on Vinyl floors
If you notice dust or dirt has collected on your vinyl flooring, you must quickly sweep or vacuum it. In either case, ensure your tools have soft bristles and are in good condition. A rough brush can cause minor scratches on the surface of the vinyl. Likewise, vacuums that have exposed metal or rough bristles can also cause damage.
If you or someone in your family is allergic or sensitive to dust, you might want to consider or choose a product from Heartridge by Dunlop. Heartridge produces Australia’s only National Asthma Council-approved vinyl. Their products use the safest materials and have a low formaldehyde emission rating. They are also free of chemical compounds called phthalates that can irritate some people.
How to maintain Vinyl flooring
Like many other flooring products, vinyl planks and panels can be scratched. To avoid scratches, we recommend using felt pads on chairs, table legs, under couches, and other heavy pieces of furniture. You should not drag heavy items across vinyl flooring. You can use rugs on vinyl flooring in heavy-traffic areas. However, be aware that rubber-backed mats can cause discolouration to the vinyl. Look for soft and natural materials when choosing carpets and rugs. Always avoid wearing sharp-heeled shoes like stilettos when walking on vinyl.
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