Caring for Vinyl Floors

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Sweep or vacuum vinyl flooring routinely to remove loose dirt that can scratch the floor. If spills are left until later, they can cause stains or attract more dirt. Wash floor with warm water as soon floor begins to look dirty. Soap is not always necessary. Change water frequently. If damp mopping does not get the floor clean, use a cleaning solution recommended by the flooring manufacturer, or an all purpose cleaner. Rinse thoroughly or the remaining cleaner can cause the floor to soil more quickly. A scrub brush may be needed to loosen some dirt.

Most vinyl floors have "no wax" surfaces. This means that you do not have to wax them often. But you may need to renew the shine. Use a floor polish made specifically for vinyl floors. The company that made your flooring may recommend special types of polish. Some types of vinyl floor polishes are available in grocery and variety stores. Be sure to apply thin coats of polish. To get an even coat, pour polish on the applicator rather than the floor.

Marsha Alexander, AlexanderM@missouri.edu
Regional Specialist, Housing and Environmental Design
Jackson County, Missouri
University of Missouri Extension