What to Clean LVP Flooring With

Known as one of the most pet-friendly and durable flooring options available, luxury vinyl planks (LVP) are the perfect fit for active households. If you are looking to invest in this amazing flooring product, one of the first things you should look into is how and what to clean LVP floors with (and maybe how to shine LVP flooring if you're feeling ambitious). Fortunately, Georgia Carpet is here to help with everything you need to know about cleaning luxury vinyl planks. Learn all the right cleaning methods so you can properly maintain your floors and keep them looking new. Because of the unique characteristics of luxury vinyl plank, there are certain tips and tricks to cleaning it that every LVP owner should know.

Best Way to Clean LVP Floors

Keeping a clean floor, in general, is a good rule of thumb to have. Follow a consistent routine to keep your floors looking their best.

Step 1: Remove loose dirt and debris

For everyday dirt and dust, it is best to sweep, Swiffer®, or vacuum your luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the week. Regularly picking up hair and dirt prevents you from accidentally grinding particles into the flooring, which makes deep cleaning more difficult and wears out the vinyl itself. If you use a vacuum, ensure it has no beater bar to avoid scratching the surface.

Step 2: Choose a microfiber mop

For times when you want more than just a dust or vacuum, a mop and bucket will be your best friend. A microfiber mop is the best choice for this flooring because it is more absorbent and removes more water from the floor than a traditional string mop. Since standing water can damage or stain some types of vinyl flooring, always thoroughly wring the mop out before you start.

Step 3: Prevent moisture and heat damage

While vinyl planks are durable and waterproof, a steam cleaner is not the best way to clean vinyl plank floors. These floors are not meant to handle the intense heat produced by steaming, which can damage the planks. Additionally, using doormats to catch initial outside debris can significantly reduce the amount of deep cleaning required.

What's The Best LVP Floor Cleaner?

When you search for what to clean LVP floors with, you really want to know which solutions are safe. Generally speaking, most luxury vinyl planks can be cleaned using these household solutions:

• Dish Soap and Water: A pH-neutral soap like Dawn is the best way to clean vinyl plank flooring because it cuts grime and grease without stripping your floors or damaging the wear layer. Mix about an ounce with a gallon of warm water and rinse afterward to avoid soap scum.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This is an excellent residue-free alternative. The acidity in the vinegar removes grime and dirt without leaving behind buildup like soap can.
• White Vinegar: If you want to disinfect while cleaning, white vinegar works well too. Just make sure you don't use full-strength vinegar on your floors, as it can dull the finish over time.

It is also important to note that you should not clean luxury vinyl flooring with bleach, ammonia, or any high-pH detergents, as these corrosive cleaners can cause permanent damage to the flooring

How to Remove Stains and Sticky Residue from LVP Floors

For specific messes that a standard mop won't fix, you can use targeted solutions to lift the spot without harming the finish:

• Baking Soda Paste: Combine water and baking soda to rub out food or drink stains.
• Isopropyl Alcohol: This is the best solution for lifting ink, marker, or dye spots.
• Shampoo: For bathroom floors with hairspray buildup, a little shampoo mixed with warm water will cut through the stickiness and leave the floor clean.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: A three percent solution can help lift particularly stubborn spots that have begun to set.

List of Things to Avoid with Vinyl Plank Flooring

To prevent permanent damage to your floors, stay away from these products and methods:

• Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach, ammonia, or high-pH detergents. These are corrosive and can cause extensive, permanent damage to the flooring.
• Abrasive Tools: Avoid steel wool, stiff scrub brushes, or vacuums with beater bars that can scratch the wear layer.
• Mop-and-Shine Products: These create a waxy film that traps dirt and makes the floor look cloudy.
• Steam Cleaners: The intense heat can weaken the adhesive bonds and cause the planks to buckle or warp.

How to Protect LVP Flooring from Damage

After cleaning your LVPs, follow these tips to keep them in top condition:

• Use Furniture Protectors: Place felt pads under the legs of chairs, tables, and heavy furniture to prevent scuff marks and indentations.
• Manage Sunlight: Close blinds or curtains during the brightest parts of the day. Long-term exposure to direct sunlight can cause some vinyl products to fade or discolor.
• Lift, Don't Drag: When moving furniture, always lift it completely off the floor rather than sliding it across the surface.
• Rug Placement: Use rugs or mats in high-traffic areas and under rolling office chairs to provide an extra layer of protection.

We hope that these various hacks and tips on how to clean COREtec LVP flooring and regular LVP flooring help you as you take care of your LVP and keep it looking like new. If you are looking to buy luxury vinyl wholesale flooring at a low cost, we have many designs here at Georgia Carpet that would look great in your home or business. Shop online or visit our showroom, located in Dalton, GA.