Many homeowners find it tricky to keep their luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring clean, often making mistakes that can harm their floors. Taking care of LVP flooring doesn’t need fancy cleaners or hard-to-follow steps – you just need to know what works and what doesn’t. Let’s walk through how to clean your LVP flooring to help it stay beautiful for a long time.
According to Brett Miller, VP of Technical Standards at the National Wood Flooring Association, “The key to maintaining any floor, including LVP, is to clean up spills right away and use the right cleaning products specifically made for your type of flooring.”
Keep Flooring Pristine Daily
Your LVP flooring represents a significant investment that deserves daily attention to maintain its beauty and durability.
We recommend using a dust mop or vacuum designed for bare floors to remove dirt daily.
For the best cleaning tips to keep your vinyl flooring looking fresh, wipe up spills immediately with a damp cloth, and don’t forget those high-traffic areas that need extra attention.
Let’s explore the essential aspects of keeping your LVP flooring in top condition, including both recommended practices and things to avoid.
We’ll walk through specific steps that’ll help you maintain your floors while preventing common cleaning mistakes that could damage them.
From daily maintenance to tackling tough stains, we’ll cover everything you need to know about proper LVP floor care.
Things to Do When Cleaning Lvp Flooring
Maintaining LVP flooring requires a systematic approach to guarantee its longevity and appearance. Regular cleaning not only preserves the floor’s aesthetic appeal but also protects its protective wear layer from premature deterioration.
By following proper cleaning techniques and using appropriate cleaning solutions, you can keep your LVP flooring looking fresh and vibrant for years to come.
- Regular Sweeping – Remove loose dirt and debris daily using a soft-bristled broom or vacuum with a bare floor setting to prevent scratching.
- Damp Mopping – Use a well-wrung microfiber mop with pH-neutral cleaner or vinegar solution for routine cleaning.
- Steam Cleaning – Apply steam mop on lowest setting with microfiber pad for deep cleaning, following manufacturer guidelines.
- Spill Management – Wipe up spills immediately with absorbent cloth to prevent staining and surface damage.
- Thorough Rinsing – Remove all cleaning solution residue with clean water to maintain floor’s finish.
- Spot Treatment – Address stubborn stains with isopropyl alcohol and gentle agitation using a white cloth.
- Preventive Care – Place mats at entrances and furniture pads under heavy items to minimize wear and scratches.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning Lvp Flooring
When cleaning luxury vinyl plank flooring, it’s essential to understand that using the wrong cleaning methods or products can cause permanent damage to your flooring investment.
Improper cleaning techniques can lead to dulling, scratching, warping, or even complete deterioration of the protective wear layer that gives LVP its durability and attractive appearance.
- Detergents, soaps, and waxes – Leave behind residue that builds up and creates a dull, cloudy appearance on the flooring surface.
- Vinegar-based solutions – Acidic properties can break down the protective coating and damage the vinyl material.
- Steam mops – High heat and moisture can cause warping and separation of planks unless specifically approved by manufacturer.
- Abrasive tools – Steel wool, scrub brushes, and rough sponges create scratches and wear patterns in the protective layer.
- Citrus cleaners – Natural acids in citrus-based products can cause discoloration and deterioration of the vinyl surface.
- Excessive water – Standing water can seep between planks, leading to edge swelling and adhesive failure.
- Bleach or ammonia – Harsh chemicals can strip the protective coating and cause irreversible damage to the flooring.
Steps
Keeping your Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring clean and well-maintained requires a systematic approach that combines regular maintenance with proper cleaning techniques.
By following a structured cleaning routine, you can preserve the appearance and extend the lifespan of your LVP flooring while avoiding common mistakes that could damage the material.
Step 1: Sweep or vacuum daily using a soft-bristled broom or vacuum with hard floor setting
Step 2: Remove any visible debris or dirt particles from the surface
Step 3: Mix cleaning solution (pH-neutral cleaner or 1 cup vinegar per gallon of water)
Step 4: Dampen mop with cleaning solution, ensuring it’s not overly wet
Step 5: Clean floor in sections, working from one end to the other
Step 6: Blot any spills immediately with clean white cloth or paper towels
Step 7: For stubborn spots, gently scrub with a damp cloth
Step 8: Allow floor to air dry completely
Step 9: Place protective pads under furniture legs
Step 10: Install entrance mats to reduce dirt and debris tracking
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your LVP flooring doesn’t have to be complicated, as long as you’re committed to following a consistent cleaning routine and using the right products.
Remember to avoid using harsh cleaners, clean with a damp mop regularly, and tackle stubborn stains promptly.
Maintaining your LVP flooring doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With regular sweeping, proper damp mopping, and prompt attention to spills, you can keep your floors looking beautiful for years to come.
Remember to use the right cleaning products, avoid steam mops unless specifically approved, and take preventive measures like furniture pads and doormats.
Start implementing these simple cleaning habits today, and you’ll protect your investment while enjoying the lasting beauty of your LVP floors.
The key is consistency – make these cleaning practices part of your regular home maintenance routine, and your floors will continue to enhance your living space for years to come.
