Vinyl flooring is a very popular choice when it comes to choosing flooring for your building. This is because not only can it be much cheaper than having tile or hardwood flooring, but it is very durable and can last for many years. Despite it’s heavy-duty material, proper maintenance is needed to maintain the original look of the flooring. Therefore, here are 5 tips for cleaning your business’s vinyl flooring.
Sweep area thoroughly. The first step in cleaning vinyl flooring is to sweep the area thoroughly. By doing this before you mop, you will remove any dirt particles or debris that may be sticking to the floor. In most cases you can do this by using a broom and dustpan. However in some cases, you may find using a vacuum on the ‘floor’ setting to be more helpful.
Choosing the right detergent. When it comes to cleaning vinyl flooring, choosing the right detergent is important. Too strong of a detergent can lead to damaged floors. When in doubt start off with the mildest detergent and work your way up to a stronger one. It is important to note that if you are cleaning a no-wax floor make sure to use a detergent that is specifically made for no-wax flooring.
One cleaning detergent we recommend for vinyl flooring is Pine Tree Cleaner. This detergent is very effective in removing general dirt and grime that may be on your floors. It is non corrosive and will not stain painted surfaces. It is perfect for use in barber shops, restrooms, hospitals, beauty salons or anywhere else you may find vinyl flooring. The mint or lemon scent options add to the overall satisfaction of the product as well.
Apply cleaning detergent. Always test a small area when using a new detergent on your flooring for the first time. If you notice any discoloration, discontinue use. After it has been tested with your floors, dilute the detergent as described on the bottle. Apply the detergent to the floor with a mop. When doing this it is best to avoid using a large amount of water on the floors. Only use as much water as needed. Over wetting the floor can allow the water to enter into the cracks and crevices of the vinyl flooring. This can break the bond between the glue and the floor resulting in curling corners. In some cases, the vinyl can even begin to be lifted off the floor as a result of too much water, thus use caution when applying the detergent. After the detergent had been applied to the floor, use a mop to scrub any scuffs, stains or any other areas that may need added attention.
Rinse thoroughly. This is an important step to clean your floor properly. Most cleaning detergents leave behind a soapy residue. Soap residue can actually attract dirt, meaning your newly cleaned floors can become dirtier much quicker than before. Also, some detergents left on vinyl flooring can actually dull the finish. In order to avoid these two things, make sure to thoroughly rinse the floors after applying the cleaning detergent. This can be done by using two mops, one for washing and the other for rinsing.
Apply polish. This step is optional, but you may want to do so if you find your floors begin to look dull. It is important to note, once again, that no-wax vinyl means exactly what it sounds like, do not use wax on this type of flooring. This is because this type of material contains polyurethane coating that makes it shine. Due to this polyurethane coating, wax will not adhere to the surface. Instead, if you want to spruce up the shine, look for a polish or sealant specifically designed for no-wax vinyl.
Preventative Measures To Keep Your Vinyl Clean
Regular maintenance. In order to prevent dirt and grime from being ground down into your vinyl flooring, regular maintenance is essential. This includes regularly sweeping, dusting and even vacuuming your floors. The frequency can depend on a variety of factors such as the location of the room, the amount of foot traffic, and can also depend on the time of year as well. Weigh all of these factors and adjust your regular cleaning and maintenance list accordingly.
Doormats. Doormats can help to prevent dirt, grime and other things from ending up on your floor. Not only do they make cleaning your vinyl floors that must easier, but they help work against the dirt and grime that can dull the finish. To help maintain your floors appearance, make sure to add a doormat at any entrance or high traffic area.
Mop up spills. Even though most vinyl flooring contain a coating, unattended spills can quickly lead to set-in stains which can damage your flooring. To prevent this from happening, mop up any spills immediately.
