Luxury vinyl flooring is a popular choice among homeowners. Not only does it improve the look of any space, but it’s also affordable. But its shine can diminish over time due to dust, dirt, and foot traffic.
Here are some easy ways to maintain your LVP or LVT floor’s shine and how you can protect it all year long from dirt, stains, and scratches.
1. Have a Regular Cleaning Regimen
A regular cleaning schedule involves daily dust mopping and weekly deep cleaning to prevent any dirt/dust accumulation dirt accumulation and scratches on the floor.
Mopping/Sweeping Off Dust
- Frequency: Daily
- Tools: Microfiber mop or dust mop
- Method: Gently sweep the floor with the mop to capture dust, dirt, and pet hair that can scratch the vinyl surface.
- Benefit: Reduces the risk of fine scratches and keeps the floor looking clean.
Deep Cleaning
- Frequency: Weekly
- Cleaning Solution: A mixture of apple cider vinegar and water (1 cup of vinegar per 1 gallon of water) or a manufacturer-recommended vinyl floor cleaner.
- Tools: Microfiber mop or well-wrung-out mop to prevent excess water.
- Process:
- Clear the floor of furniture and rugs.
- Sweep or vacuum to remove any loose debris.
- Mop the floor with the cleaning solution, using a circular motion.
- Rinse the mop frequently to avoid spreading dirt.
- Tip: Do not use abrasive cleaners, wax-based products, or steam mops, as they can damage the floor’s finish.
2. Avoid Harsh Floor Cleaners
Harmful Chemicals to Avoid
- Ammonia or Bleach-based Cleaners: They can strip off the protective coating and dull the shine.
- Abrasive Scouring Powders: Scratches and scuffs from abrasives are a risk to the floor’s appearance.
Caution:
- Read Labels Carefully: Always check product labels to confirm that the cleaner is suitable for use on vinyl floors.
3. Use Floor Protectors
Maintaining the shine of LVP/LVT flooring requires a proactive approach to preventing scratches and scuffs.
Floor Protectors
- Felt Pads: Stick felt pads onto the bottom of furniture legs to reduce friction.
- Rubber Caps: Go for rubber caps that fit over the end of furniture legs for a non-slip benefit.
Regular replacement of these protectors is necessary as they wear down or collect debris, which could scratch the floor.
Furniture Movement Tips
Instead of dragging furniture, lift and carry it. If the furniture is too heavy to lift, you can use plywood pathways to gently slide it across the floor or use furniture sliders made for LVP or LVT floors to distribute weight evenly and minimize scratches.
4. Keep Your LVP and LVT Floors from Sun Exposure
LVP and LVT flooring thrive under proper care, and managing sunlight exposure is a key aspect of its maintenance.
Protection with Window Treatments
Sheer drapes or blinds significantly reduce the amount of sunlight hitting the vinyl surface, thus diminishing the risk of discoloration and maintaining its original shine.
- UV-Blocking Window Films: Installing these films on windows not only protects the flooring but also offers additional energy efficiency for the home.
- Window Tinting: Similar to UV-blocking films, tinting controls the amount of ultraviolet and infrared rays entering a room.
Routine Rearrangement
The sun’s position changes with the seasons, affecting how light enters the room.
- Furniture and Rugs: They should be periodically moved to even the exposure across the flooring, preventing uneven fading.
5. Deal with Spills and Stains As Soon as Possible
Dealing with spills and stains immediately can help maintain your LVP/LVT floor’s shine. Below are simple steps to remove spills and stains.
Spills
- Blot the spill using a clean, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.
- Rinse the area with a damp cloth if the spill was a substance that might cause stickiness or staining.
- Dry the area thoroughly with a clean cloth to remove any remaining moisture.
Stains
- Identify the type of stain (oil-based, water-based, etc.).
- Select an appropriate cleaner for the stain type that is specifically designed for use on LVP and LVT flooring.
| Stain Type | Cleaning Solution |
|---|---|
| Common Stains | Diluted apple cider vinegar and water mixture |
| Oily Stains | Mild dish soap mixed with water |
| Tough Stains | Stain removers specific for luxury vinyl floors (according to directions) |
Preventing Future Stains
- Use doormats or rugs to minimize the amount of dirt and substances tracked onto the flooring.
- Shoes that carry debris should be removed before walking on the floor.
- Install felt pads under furniture to prevent scratches.
Long-Term Maintenance
Maintaining the shine on luxury vinyl flooring requires consistent, long-term care. This includes periodic protective treatments and the engagement of professional cleaning services.
Periodic Refinishing
Luxury vinyl flooring benefits greatly from the periodic application of sealants or finishing products specifically designed for vinyl flooring.
A refinish should take place every few years, depending on foot traffic and usage.
The process involves:
- Thoroughly cleaning the floor to remove dirt and grime.
- Applying the finish uniformly to the flooring’s surface often requires a thin, even coat to avoid streaks.
Professional Cleaning Services
Professional cleaners use specialized tools and solutions that are calibrated for the vinyl material without damaging the surface.
This includes:
- Deep Cleaning: Removal of accumulated dirt that standard home cleaning may miss.
- Specialized Solutions: Use of non-abrasive and pH-neutral cleaners to ensure no harm to the flooring’s finish.
Shoe and Pet Policy
One simple yet effective policy is to have a ‘shoes off’ rule upon entering the home. This helps to prevent dirt and debris from the outdoors from scratching the vinyl surface and oils and substances from footwear that can dull the finish.
Pets, such as dogs and cats, can cause wear on flooring. Keep pets’ nails trimmed to avoid scratches or place protective mats in high-traffic pet areas. Wipe your pets’ paws with a soft, damp cloth after they have been outside.
Securing the Shine: Your Next Steps with 50Floor
50Floor stands as your dedicated ally in not only choosing the perfect luxury vinyl flooring but also in guiding you toward maintaining its pristine condition for years to come.
Our commitment to quality and customer service ensures that you receive not just a product but a full-fledged flooring solution tailored to your needs.
Embrace the opportunity to enhance your space with luxury vinyl flooring that promises durability and aesthetic appeal. With 50Floor, you gain access to an extensive collection of high-quality LVP and LVT options and the expertise needed to keep them shining for the long haul.Â
Take the step towards a brighter, more durable floor today with us by your side.
