Over time, moving furniture, dropping objects, and regular foot traffic can leave unsightly marks on your luxury vinyl flooring. Maintaining your vinyl floor’s appearance and longevity involves knowing how to effectively remove these scratches.Â
This guide provides comprehensive steps to help you tackle both light and deep scratches, ensuring your floor remains in top condition.

Materials and Tools Needed
You’ll need:
- Vinyl floor cleaner
- Scratch repair kits
- Soft cloths
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Putty knife
- Wax sticks or crayons for minor touch-ups
These tools and materials are readily available at most home improvement stores.

Preparation
- Begin by cleaning the affected area.Â
- Use a vinyl floor cleaner to remove dirt, dust, and debris. This ensures that the repair materials adhere properly to the floor surface.Â
- Allow the area to dry completely
Next, assess the depth and severity of the scratches. Light scratches are typically surface-level and can be felt but not deeply indented.Â
Deep scratches, on the other hand, may penetrate through the vinyl layer, exposing the subfloor or underlying layers. Identifying the scratch type will determine the appropriate repair method.

Removing Light Scratches
For light scratches, you can often achieve results with a few simple steps.Â
Using a Vinyl Floor Cleaner and Polish
- Clean the floor first for dust and grime. Apply a vinyl floor cleaner on the scratched surfaces.
- Once the area is dry, apply a vinyl floor polish. The polish is designed to fill in minor scratches and restore the floor’s shine.
- Use a soft cloth to buff the polish into the scratch. Move in circular motions to blend the polish with the surrounding area.
- For deeper light scratches, you may need to repeat the process a couple of times to achieve the desired results.

DIY Scratch Repair Solution
- Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar. This solution can help in minimizing the appearance of scratches.
- Dab a small amount of the solution onto the scratch using a soft cloth.
- Gently buff the area in circular motions, blending the solution into the scratch and surrounding vinyl.
- After buffing, wipe the area clean with a damp cloth to remove any residue.

Using Wax Sticks or Crayons for Minor Touch-Ups
Wax sticks or crayons, designed for vinyl floors, can be an effective and quick fix for minor scratches.
- Select a wax stick or crayon that closely matches your vinyl floor color. Many home improvement stores offer a variety of shades.
- Rub the wax stick or crayon over the scratch, filling it in.
- Use a soft cloth to buff the filled-in scratch, blending it with the surrounding vinyl.
- For a smoother finish, you can gently heat the wax with a hairdryer and buff again.

Methods for Repairing Deep Scratches
Sometimes, when scratches are too deep, the only effective solution is to replace the affected vinyl flooring.Â
Deep scratches can penetrate the wear layer and reach the core of the vinyl, compromising its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.Â
Replacing damaged floors is a complex process that involves precise measurements, careful removal of the old flooring, and expert installation of new materials to ensure a flawless finish.
This task is best left to professionals who have the experience and tools necessary to achieve optimal results. If you find yourself in need of new luxury vinyl floors, 50Floor is here to help.Â
Our team of skilled professionals can guide you through the entire process, from selecting the perfect flooring that matches your style and needs to expertly installing it in your home.Â
We offer a wide range of high-quality luxury vinyl flooring options designed to enhance the beauty and durability of your space.

Preventive Measures
Use Furniture Pads
Place felt pads under the legs of furniture to prevent scratches when moving them.
Regularly check and replace the pads as needed.
Regular Maintenance Routines
Sweep or vacuum your vinyl floors regularly to remove dirt and debris that can cause scratches.
Use a damp mop with a gentle cleaner specifically designed for vinyl floors.
Avoid Certain Types of Footwear and Heavy Objects
Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with hard soles on vinyl floors. Be cautious when moving heavy objects. Use furniture sliders or lift the objects instead of dragging them.


Maintenance and Care Tips
Proper maintenance and care are essential to keep your vinyl floors looking their best. Here are some best practices:
- Sweep or vacuum daily to prevent dirt and debris buildup.
- Use a damp mop with a mild cleaner weekly to maintain the floor’s shine.
- Consider applying a protective coating or finish to your vinyl floors. These products can add an extra layer of protection against scratches and wear.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and reapplication to ensure optimal results.