Want to keep your vinyl floor looking new for as long as possible? Here’s some tips to keep your flooring looking brand new for years to come!
How to Clean Vinyl Floors
Sheet vinyl and vinyl plank/tile can have different cleaning methods, mainly due to the differences in their construction and installation. Here’s a breakdown of the recommended cleaning methods for both:
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
Sheet vinyl is generally more seamless (since it often comes in large rolls) and is often softer than vinyl plank or tile. It might be more susceptible to tears, scuffs, or indentations.
Cleaning Methods for Sheet Vinyl
Regular Sweeping or Vacuuming
This prevents dirt and debris from scratching the surface. Avoid using a vacuum with a beater bar.
Mopping
- Use a damp mop with warm water. If you want a deeper clean, use a manufacturer-recommended cleaner or a mild detergent.
Spot Cleaning
- For spills, immediately wipe them up. For more stubborn spots, use a vinyl-approved floor cleaner and a soft cloth.
What to Avoid
- Excessive water (can seep through seams or edges), abrasive scrubbers, or aggressive cleaners, which can damage the surface.
Vinyl Plank/Tile Flooring
Vinyl plank/tile flooring (often referred to as Luxury Vinyl Plank or Tile – LVP or LVT) is usually thicker and can have a textured surface that mimics wood or stone. These tiles or planks are interlocking or adhere to the subfloor.
Cleaning Methods for Vinyl Plank/Tile
Regular Sweeping or Vacuuming
- Like sheet vinyl, it’s essential to prevent dirt and debris from scratching the surface. Still, use a vacuum without a beater bar.
Mopping
- Use a damp mop with warm water. As with sheet vinyl, a mild detergent or a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer can be used. However, due to the potential for seams between planks/tiles, it’s important to avoid letting water sit on the floor.
Spot Cleaning
- Wipe up spills immediately. For stubborn spots, use a cleaner suitable for vinyl floors.
What to Avoid
- Steam mops (can cause damage between the seams or to the adhesive if it’s a glue-down product), abrasive scrubbers, and aggressive cleaners.
Do you need to wax luxury vinyl floor tile?
Typically, you do not ned to wax luxury vinyl floor tile. In fact, waxing is not recommended for these types of floors because of the built-in shine and potential for discoloration or damage, damaging the wear layer and further reducing the lifespan.
Instead of waxing, here are other ways to maintain the beauty and longevity of your luxury vinyl floor:
Use a Doormat
Keep a doormat at entrances into your home to protect your vinyl floors from dirt, moisture, 
and chemicals. Any dirt or grit that is brought in can act like sandpaper and remove the finish from the floors. It’s easy to see tracked-in dirt, but what you can’t see is chemicals from asphalt on shoes and tile. The chemicals can even cause your floors to start turning yellow! The best part about using a doormat is the fun you can have! Choose a doormat with a quirky saying, seasonal pattern or even customize a monogram for your family.
Keep Your Floors Clean
Be proactive by keeping your floors clean! Sweep or vacuum regularly to make sure there is nothing on the floor to damage the finish. When needed, wash your floor using the appropriate cleanser—like a Carpetland USA cleaning product, available at your local store.
What Cleanser are You Using?
Pay attention to the cleanser you’re using and what type of floor you have. No-wax vinyl needs to be cleaned differently than older vinyl that does require waxing—and be sure to follow the directions on the cleaner for best results. Watch our YouTube video for more tips on properly cleaning and maintaining your floors!
Be Careful with Water!
When you do need to mop your floor, be careful not to soak your vinyl floors with water. Water can get into any crack or seam and destroy the glue holding down the tiles. It’s best to use a damp mop and remove as much water as possible when finished. This will protect your floors from coming loose and keep the corners from curling.
Rinse Well
Keep your floors shiny and clean by removing all traces of soap when mopping. Any remaining soap will leave a film and soap scum on the floors and collects dirt faster. A great tip is to use two mops when cleanser is needed to clean your floors—one mop is used for washing, and the other is for rinsing.
Protect Your Floor from Scratches
From heavy furniture to rolling casters, there are many items in your home that can create scratches in your vinyl floors. Prevent your furniture and appliances from scratching the floor by using felt or floor protectors on the legs of those items. Floor protectors will also prevent dents in the tiles. Similarly, rolling casters can damage the floor as well. Avoid furniture with rolling casters, or replace them with felt tips.
If you’re about to move, or replace furniture or appliances, be careful with how you move the items. If you drag or push furniture you can easily scratch and scuff the floor. The best way to avoid this is to lay a sheet of plywood on the path you’ll take when moving your furniture or appliances.
Bonus Cleaning Tip!
Having trouble removing sticky hairspray residue from your floors? Mix shampoo into warm water and mop the stickiness away!
Keep your vinyl floors looking like new by taking care of them properly and keeping them clean. For more information on cleaning and maintaining your floors, check out our Floor Care Stain Guide!